The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Bhutan recorded 864 tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2023, with a notable concentration among young adults aged 15-24. The Annual Health Bulletin 2024 report indicates that this age group has the highest number of new pulmonary bacteriologically confirmed TB cases and extrapulmonary TB cases.
To address the persistent TB burden, the Ministry of Health (MoH), with assistance from international partners, has been focusing on improving healthcare infrastructure, training medical personnel, and conducting awareness campaigns.
As part of these efforts, a mobile screening and diagnostic vehicle has been introduced to enhance TB detection. This initiative was carefully planned by MoH in partnership with UNDP and The Global Fund.
The planning process involved a detailed assessment of Bhutan’s TB prevalence, identifying high-risk groups, and ensuring the strategic allocation of resources for maximum impact. The initiative aligns with the National Tuberculosis Control Program’s goal of reducing TB cases and deaths by improving early detection and treatment adherence.
A breakthrough in Bhutan’s TB response is the launch of the mobile unit, which functions as a fully equipped TB clinic on wheels. The vehicle, procured through UNDP’s procurement mechanism and financed by The Global Fund under the COVID-19 Response Mechanism grant, is expected to revolutionize TB screening and diagnosis in Bhutan.
The mobile unit is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, including a Digital X-ray system integrated with Qure AI (Artificial Intelligence) to quickly detect potential TB cases. It also features a GeneXpert system, which facilitates rapid confirmation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and Rifampicin-resistant MTB (MTB/RIF) cases.
In addition to its diagnostic capabilities, the mobile van has a bio-safety system for safe sample processing and an ultraviolet (UV) system to prevent infection spread. These features make it a critical tool for proactive TB case detection, including contact tracing and screening programs. This is specifically designed to serve high-risk and vulnerable populations who face challenges in accessing traditional healthcare facilities.
The TB Clinic on Wheels will offer comprehensive TB services, including screening, diagnosis, health education, and treatment support. Medical personnel onboard will also engage in community outreach programs to enhance awareness of TB symptoms, prevention strategies, and available treatment options.
MoH emphasized the importance of this mobile unit in bringing TB services closer to affected communities. With this advanced screening unit, MoH aims to reach vulnerable populations more effectively, ensuring early diagnosis and timely medical intervention.
With this innovative approach, MoH aims to advance early TB detection, enhance patient outcomes, and ultimately reduce the national TB burden. While challenges remain, the deployment of this mobile unit marks a significant step forward in Bhutan’s commitment to combating TB and improving public health.
