Integrating Indian Post and National Tuberculosis Elimination Program - A new way ahead

Abstract

COVID-19 and its response have a significant influence on healthcare services throughout the world and are likely to put the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) under immense pressure. Mitigation actions taken by the government to prevent the spread of infection have led to missed diagnoses and a halt in services such as active case finding, contact tracing, and follow-ups. Diagnostic delays have created a gap in the TB care chain, increasing mortality rates and morbidity, and can worsen the disease burden in marginalized communities. Closing these gaps requires intervention at the population and government levels. Integrating the Indian Post with the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program will be a milestone in the specimen transport system and will ultimately result in better diagnosis and treatment of Tuberculosis.