Evaluation of latent tuberculous infection and treatment completion for refugees in Philadelphia, PA, 2010-2012.

Publication/Presentation Date

5-1-2015

Abstract

SETTING: Philadelphia, PA, USA.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the evaluation and treatment of latent tuberculous infection (LTBI) in refugees seen at member clinics of the Philadelphia Refugee Health Collaborative (PRHC) vs. non-PRHC clinics.

DESIGN: Refugees with Class B (non-communicable) tuberculosis (TB) admitted to the United States from 2010 to 2012 who were being treated at PRHC clinics were compared to those treated at non-PRHC clinics. Odds ratios (ORs) for attending a follow-up appointment, completing treatment, and time from arrival to the United States to the first TB screening test were calculated.

RESULTS: Of the 2094 refugees who arrived in Philadelphia in 2010-2012, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health was notified of 149 who required additional evaluation for TB. Among these, 57 (38.3%) were confirmed to have LTBI, and none were diagnosed with active TB. All LTBI cases were recommended for anti-tuberculosis prophylaxis and 43 (75.4%) completed treatment. Refugees receiving care from PRHC clinics were more likely to be screened within 30 days of arrival (OR 4.70, 95%CI 2.12-10.44), attend a follow-up appointment (OR 4.53, 95%CI 1.36-16.27), and complete treatment (OR 9.44, 95%CI 2.39-37.3).

CONCLUSION: Refugees who attended PRHC clinics were more likely to be evaluated promptly and to complete LTBI treatment. The PRHC clinics serve as a model for communities seeking to improve refugee health care.

Volume

19

Issue

5

First Page

565

Last Page

569

ISSN

1815-7920

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

25868025

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

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