Healthcare system factors influencing treatment results of patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis

​In 2012, 5% of the cases of TB for which drug susceptibility test results were available, were reported to be multidrug resistant (MDR). Treatment for MDR TB is lengthy, toxic, expensive, and has generally poor outcomes. Inadequate treatment can lead to unfavourable outcomes for the patient and also increases the risk of transmission and the development of resistance to even more drugs.

Qualitative research was therefore carried out in four EU countries to try to identify the factors of a healthcare system that are key to achieving good treatment results for patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.