Promoting a tuberculosis free community: One referral at a time

In 2008 and 2010 Stamford, CT had the highest incidence of active tuberculosis, 11 and 9 cases respectively. 306 latent cases were followed in 2010. In order to prevent tuberculosis, education is required to make choices to keep bodies and communities healthy. A referral system is in place in collaboration with the Stamford Health Department clinics, 5 FQHCs, local hospitals, the State Dept. of Health and the CDC. Stamford is located 38 miles outside of NY City.

Patient/family education includes: one on one teaching, posters, health fairs and World TB Day. The local medical community, includes, residents, medical students, and nurses from: public health, schools, community health centers and the hospital, also obtain TB education and the most current recommendations and guidelines through the Stamford Health Department. Additional educational opportunities are available in: high school CNA classes, ADRNs in a local community college, an RN internship and MD/MPH student tours.

Approximately 85% of non-pregnant referrals are compliant with the first clinic appointment, compared to 52% of the pregnant referrals. The inherent problem being that pregnant TB referrals are not treated until after delivery and breastfeeding.

In conclusion, a healthy tuberculosis free community is dependent on an intact/utilized referral system. Collaboration between the local and state health departments as well as a systematic EXCEL spreadsheet is helpful to evaluate the TB program.