Lived Experiences on the Medication Adherence of Patients Living with Tuberculosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Keywords:
TB-DOTS patients, COVID-19, Pandemic, Lived experiences, coping mechanismsAbstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone, particularly those with underlying medical conditions. Tuberculosis is one of the disease problems; the DOH has a program to help TB patients stay on track with their treatment schedule. Patients' compliance may be affected as a result of some lockdown protocols imposed by the country due to the pandemic.
Objectives: Evaluating the lived experiences of patients living with tuberculosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.
Methods: The research method employed in this study is a qualitative design, specifically phenomenological inquiry. It was used to gather data on the personal perspectives and lived experiences of tuberculosis patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. It seeks to provide detailed information on the environmental and/or limitations and enablers affecting tuberculosis (TB) treatment programs. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted to collect data, and thematic analysis was employed to interpret the results.
Results: The majority of participants were female, ranging in age from 28 to 62 years old. It was found that the participants' fear of discrimination, limited mobilization, higher risk of infection, and lack of access to treatment were the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that medication adherence to TB is of utmost importance in helping to cure patients, preventing the further spread of the disease, and avoiding the development of drug resistance. The results suggest that TB patients should follow COVID-19 precautions as advised by health authorities and continue their TB treatment as prescribed.
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