P-32 Nurses/TB outreach workers views on the factors linked to poor treatment adherence among tuberculosis patients
Author(s):
C Tinnie
Year of Presentation:
2026
Objective: The objective of this study was to identify nonadherence aspects, reasons behind treatment non-adherence in tuberculosis patients at Georgetown Chest Clinic. To investigate demographic and socio-economic variables that impact adherence with treatment among TB patients and the psychological and emotional barriers that impede adherence to the TB treatment regimen.
Methods: A combination of quantitative surveys and qualitative detailed interviews were utilized in this study. In the quantitative phase, a cross-sectional survey incorporating a structured questionnaire was administered to 50 staffs. The questionnaires focused on socio-demographic background, non-compliance behaviours and other possible barriers to treatment. The qualitative phase encompassed semi-structured interviews aimed at identifying emotions, psychological conditions, and socio-economic situations surrounding treatment compliance.
Results: Initial findings from the study revealed significant socio-economic barriers such as lack of funding, no jobs, and issues in transportation that hinder patient adherence. Marked ones included stigma in TB, lack of social assistance, and poor healthcare access denying participants regular adherence. Major psychological content encompasses a range of emotions right from anxiety, depression to despair, which most frequently serve as a deterrent to tendencies for non-adherence. The study also showed how participants are in favor of an uninterrupted adherence but these factors very much impede the way of creation of a successful adherence programme.
Conclusion: TB treatment adherence in Guyana is influenced by socio-economic and psychological factors. Interventions that strengthen patient education, expand psychosocial support, reduce stigma, and improve access to care are likely to enhance adherence. These findings provide avenues for enhancing healthcare services aimed at improving treatment outcomes. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic, patient-centered TB treatment program necessitating the economic, psychological, and educational support as well as the medical treatment programs. This evidence highlighted the need for multisectoral collaboration and ongoing financial investment in both health systems and community systems to improve TB adherence and health outcomes.