Abstract
IntroductionLatent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening with targeted treatment has been successful in eradicating tuberculosis (TB) as an endemic infection in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends screening for high-risk patients. The aim of this study was to increase LTBI screening, detection, and treatment in our student-run free clinic while providing an innovative platform for education in primary care topics.MethodsA questionnaire for screening for LTBI was adapted from CDC guidelines. Medical students and providers received education on the screening process and administered questionnaires to patients. We analyzed the rate of performed LTBI screening, the rate of diagnostic testing for patients with positive screening, and the feasibility of implementing a preventive screening initiative.ResultsFifty-two patients completed primary care visits. Forty patients were screened for LTBI. Of those screened, 42.5% were positive for the screening. Of those with positive screening, 70.6% were followed up via diagnostic testing, with the rest of them being lost for follow-up due to not attending the clinic for care.ConclusionsThis educational intervention combined with a screening tool was effective in increasing LTBI screening rates amongst patients in a student-run free clinic.
Highlights
Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening with targeted treatment has been successful in eradicating tuberculosis (TB) as an endemic infection in the United States
Of those with positive screening, 70.6% were followed up via diagnostic testing, with the rest of them being lost for follow-up due to not attending the clinic for care
Received 03/01/2018 Review began 03/11/2018 Review ended 04/03/2018 Published 04/16/2018. This educational intervention combined with a screening tool was effective in increasing LTBI screening rates amongst patients in a student-run free clinic
Summary
The aim of this study was to increase LTBI screening, detection, and treatment in our student-run free clinic while providing an innovative platform for education in primary care topics. We aimed to improve the screening and detection of LTBI in our patient population by initiating a quality improvement project at KNIGHTS Clinic to include education of clinic volunteer students and providers and a screening questionnaire. Our aim was to increase LTBI screening, detection, and treatment in our clinic while providing an innovative platform for education in primary care topics
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