Method: Examined the process in use by the Springfield Department of Health, TB Office to determine how many clients returned for their reading of TB test results and if receptive to medical treatment or re-testing. Concluded that the ratio fell below 50%. The established method relied on the "honor" system. Clients were given an appointment card and asked to return on a specific date. Results: Outreach and referral remained the same. What did change was the initial contact and follow-up of the TB Health Nurse. Upon receipt of the client, an initial health screening is conducted. The client is given informational literature about TB, explaining how TB affects them and the community. All TB tests are administered on Mondays, 8:30am to 9:30am at SDHHS. One location and one time testing binds the client to the Department. Following the initial test, an appointment is scheduled but the responsibility for that appointment is now placed upon the TB Nurse. Through phone calls, the client is reminded of the appointment. If the client fails to show, they are phoned a minimum of three times. Conclusion: Simply put, education coupled with an aggressive follow-up procedure has increased attendance percentages to 100%. The new procedure has also improved our reputation and reliability, as more positive TB clients are attending clinical sessions to further educate themselves about TB and continue with their recommended prescribed medication.
Learning Objectives: To incease follow-up attendance percentages and education of Tuberculosis awareness to referred clients
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Springfield Department of Health and Human Services, Tuberculosis Office
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.