CureTB and continuity of care for globally mobile patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In 2016, 3% of newly diagnosed patients with tuberculosis (TB) left the United States, of whom 24% moved to Mexico. Continuity of care for TB is important to ensure patients complete treatment and reduce TB transmission. CureTB provides continuity of care for patients with TB who move out of the United States by referring them for care at their destination.METHODS: Analysis of CureTB data collected between January 2012 to December 2015 to describe demographics and outcomes of referred patients and examine factors contributing to successful treatment outcomes.RESULTS: CureTB received 1347 referrals mostly from health departments and law enforcement agencies in the United States (92%). A total of 858 referrals were for patients with verified or possible TB (64%). Most patients moved to Mexico or other Latin American countries (96%) and completed treatment after departing (78%). Poor treatment outcomes were associated with being in custody (33%), not being interviewed by CureTB (30%), and not having diabetes (18%).CONCLUSION: CureTB successfully promoted transnational continuity of care for patients by exchanging information with international public health authorities and linking them directly with patients. This patient-centered strategy helps improve TB treatment success and reduce the global burden and transmission of TB.