Perceived Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Clinical Care and Treatment of Tuberculosis-Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course (TB-DOTS) Patients

Abstract

The study determined the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical care and treatment of TB-DOTS patients in Claver, Surigao del Norte, Philippines, from 2020 to 2022. The research utilized a quantitative approach through a descriptive survey, with 150 respondents through purposive sampling. Most respondents were male, and a notable proportion had completed high school. The analysis employed descriptive statistical tools, showing a positive attitude toward the financial aspects of compliance and heightened awareness of COVID-19 preventive measures. Despite challenges introduced by the pandemic, such as difficulties attending medication refill appointments, TB-DOTS patients generally expressed satisfaction with Claver’s healthcare facilities, there are variations based on educational attainment and occupation. These variations suggest the need for tailored interventions to address the specific needs and challenges of different groups of patients. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare services and medication refill appointments is evident. To mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on TB services, health authorities in the Philippines collaborated with key stakeholders to ramp up and adopt easy-to-implement solutions. One solution was home-visit treatment with the help of health workers.