Feedback4.2.6 Area 6 – Procedures
Step 6.1 – Develop SOPs
SOPs must be developed or adapted for TB infection skin or blood-based tests, for:
Operational Handbooks
4.2.5 Area 5 – Supply chain
Uninterrupted availability at all testing sites of skin test materials, or reagents and disposables for IGRAs, is essential. Careful assessment of consumption rates is necessary to avoid shortage or excessive wastage of materials according to their shelf life.
Step 5.1 – Review forecasting, ordering and distribution procedures
4.2.4 Area 4 – Human resource sensitization, training and competency assessment
Step 4.1 – Develop and implement a training curriculum and strategy
4.2.3 Area 3 – Equipment and materials
Step 3.1 – Select, procure, install and set up equipment
4.2.2 Area 2 – Regulatory approval and importation of products
Step 2.1 – Complete national regulatory processes
4.2.1 Area 1 – Policies, budgeting and planning
Step 1.1 – Establish a TWG, and define roles and responsibilities
4.2 Steps for programmatic implementation of testing for TB infection
The 10 main areas in implementing a new test are listed in Box 4.1. The following sections describe the steps within each of the 10 areas.
QA: quality assurance; QC: quality control; TB: tuberculosis.
4.1 General considerations: integrated and person-centred TB infection cascade of care
The decision by a ministry of health to initiate or expand TB infection testing requires preparedness of medical services. Many of the people who may be eligible for TPT will need to be able to access this important intervention. This means that referral pathways and health services must be planned or reorganized to ensure that all individuals among target populations are tested promptly and linked to appropriate treatment based on the test results. This is best accomplished by adopting a patient-centred approach that considers the individual’s needs and perspectives.