A model to enhance adherence to tuberculosis medication: A case of Mulago Immune Suppressive Syndrome Clinic

Abstract

The study recognizes the challenges faced in ensuring adherence to Tuberculosis (TB) medication, which is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. It acknowledges the potential of digital technology, particularly Short Message Service (SMS), to address these challenges and improve medication adherence. The study aimed to address the challenges faced in TB treatment adherence and explore the potential of digital technology in improving medication adherence. The study adopted the Design Science research methodology and data was collected through interviews with patients and health workers. This approach helped gather insights from multiple perspectives and provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing medication adherence. The study identified various factors that influence adherence to TB medication. These factors encompassed predisposing factors, information about TB, enabling factors, reinforcing factors/support, and national policy support. Understanding these factors helps in designing effective interventions to improve adherence rates. Based on the findings, a conceptual model was proposed to guide the design of the SMS-based adherence model. The model outlines the decisions and components necessary for implementing the SMS intervention, such as reminders, educational messages, and support mechanisms. The model was validated to assess its effectiveness in improving medication adherence. The validation process aimed to validate the potential impact of the SMS model and its ability to enhance adherence rates among TB patients. The study contributes to the field of medical adherence, particularly in the context of TB treatment. It provides insights into the use of digital technology, specifically SMS, as a means to improve medication adherence. By proposing a novel SMS-based model, the study offers a practical and scalable solution to enhance adherence rates and ultimately improve TB treatment outcomes. Overall, the study presents a comprehensive exploration of adherence to TB medication and proposes an innovative SMS-based model that has the potential to address the challenges and improve medication adherence in the Mulago Immune Suppressive Syndrome (ISS) Clinic and similar Healthcare settings.