Experiences of Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Input to Healthcare Strategies and Programs

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Dr. Bella P. Magnaye

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the experiences of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in terms of physical, social, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of life as basis for inputs to healthcare strategies and programs. The study utilizes qualitative research wherein interviews were done to get data saturation from the informants. There were ten informants chosen from the top barangay which has the highest incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis in Batangas City. Findings showed that patients with pulmonary tuberculosis often experience changes in their routines and activities. They isolate themselves from others as a result of stigma. Additionally, tuberculosis can cause depression and can affect the decision-making skills of patients having the disease. Hence tuberculosis can strengthen one’s faith in God. Meanwhile, the TB program of the Department of Health greatly contributes to the betterment of patients. Moreover, the community health workers should continue educating the community people that they should not limit their activities but instead engage themselves in healthy activities to promote wellness. Government should allocate more nurses in the community to promote home visit that can increase case finding. By this, nurses will look for patients with tuberculosis instead of waiting for the patients to consult the health center.

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