Globally, and in India, tuberculosis (TB) continues to loom large as a public health challenge impacting millions. Despite ambitious goals set by India’s health authorities to eliminate TB, the challenge is huge and progress is not fast enough. Access to efficient and high quality care — diagnosis, treatment and support — is still not available to every person suspected to have TB or diagnosed with the disease. As India grapples with the complexities of controlling TB, we need a paradigm shift urgently — one that places those affected and their lived experiences at the centre of tackling this ancient disease.
At the core of this shift lies a fundamental recognition: the needs and the interests of patients and communities must be prioritised within the care paradigm and the health-care system. This principle, echoed by survivors, communities, health experts and policymakers, underscores the need for a person-centred approach to TB care and management.
