New Delhi: Delhi Health Minister Dr. A.K. Walia today stated that to ensure effective control over the incidence of Tuberculosis in the city, Delhi Government is starting Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) services in night shelters run by Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board. It is being initially started in 25 night shelters and it will be gradually expanded through-out Delhi. The shelter-less population is the most vulnerable to tuberculosis as this section frequently defaults in regular treatment
Dr. Walia directed the health officials to increase the percentage of cross-checking of TB patients for HIV infection. Delhi Government is already cross-checking 80% of cases of all types of TB patients for HIV co-infection as the co-infection is increasing morbidity and mortality to many times for both the diseases. The effective monitoring holds the key to reduction in both TB and HIV infections, he said. He emphasized the need for involving more NGOs and private practitioners in implementation of RNTCP.
Dr. Walia stated that in 2012 all the targets of the programme as per GOI guidelines were comfortably achieved and number of new initiatives were introduced to make RNTCP more patient friendly. Delhi, RNTCP is being implemented through a decentralised flexible mode through the State T.B. Control department at the State Level and 26 chest clinics at the District Level belonging to MCD, Govt. of Delhi, NDMC, GOI and NGO. He also said that the diagnostic and treatment services for TB and Multi Drug Resistant TB is free at 703 DOT Centres and 200 Microscopy Centres widely spread throughout the Delhi.
Post a Comment