A Tuberculosis (TB) unit (TU) is the sub-district level supervisory unit responsible for implementing the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP). Essentially, it's the main operational center for TB control activities at the sub-district level.
Roles and Responsibilities of a TB Unit:
The TB unit serves as the nodal point for managing and coordinating all TB elimination efforts within its designated sub-district. Key responsibilities include:
- Supervision and Monitoring: Overseeing the performance of Peripheral Health Institutions (PHIs) and ensuring adherence to NTEP guidelines.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Facilitating access to TB diagnostic services (like sputum microscopy and newer diagnostics such as CBNAAT), and ensuring that patients receive appropriate and timely treatment according to national protocols.
- Case Finding: Actively identifying new TB cases through various strategies, including active case finding campaigns and screening high-risk populations.
- Recording and Reporting: Maintaining accurate records of TB cases, treatment outcomes, and program activities, and submitting timely reports to higher authorities.
- Community Engagement: Raising awareness about TB in the community and promoting community participation in TB control efforts.
- Training and Capacity Building: Providing training and support to healthcare workers and other stakeholders involved in TB control.
- Drug Management: Ensuring the proper storage, distribution, and use of anti-TB drugs to prevent drug resistance.
Organogram of a Typical TB Unit:
While the exact structure may vary depending on the specific context, a typical TB unit includes key personnel responsible for different aspects of TB control. A simplified organogram might look like this:
- TB Unit In-charge: Responsible for overall management and supervision of the TB unit. This person is typically a senior medical officer.
- Senior Treatment Supervisor (STS): Supervises the implementation of Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) and other treatment regimens.
- Senior TB Laboratory Supervisor (STLS): Supervises the laboratory activities and ensures the quality of sputum microscopy and other diagnostic tests.
- Treatment Organizers/Counselors: Provide support and counseling to TB patients and their families.
- Peripheral Health Institution (PHI) Staff: Healthcare workers at primary health centers and other peripheral facilities who are involved in TB diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
The TB unit plays a crucial role in achieving the goals of the National TB Elimination Program by providing leadership, coordination, and technical support for TB control activities at the sub-district level.
