Referral Process for Surgical Management of Tuberculosis in Lima: A Qualitative Study. J Surg Res 2021 Nov;267:384-390
Date
07/06/2021Pubmed ID
34225051DOI
10.1016/j.jss.2021.05.053Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85109435026 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 1 CitationAbstract
BACKGROUND: Lung resection surgery can be a complementary therapy for managing tuberculosis (TB) complications, but access is lacking in high-burden areas. The referral process for surgical evaluation is not well described. This study aimed to elucidate the TB surgery referral process in Peru.
METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using focus groups and interviews of health care providers from the Peruvian National TB Program. A semi-structured interview guide was developed with local partners. Focus groups and individual interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to reconstruct the referral process and identify barriers as well as areas for improvement.
RESULTS: A total of 12 sessions were recorded (7 interviews and 5 focus groups; 36 participants total). The main themes identified were: (1) Surgical referral workflow, (2) Unstandardized selection criteria for surgery, (3) Limited inter-institutional communication, and (4) Material barriers to surgical management.
CONCLUSION: Health care providers involved in the referral process of surgical management of tuberculosis in Lima reported a hierarchical referral workflow. Interinstitutional communication may be a critical interventional point to improve a patient's quality of care during the referral process.
Author List
Shu-Yip S, Wong M, Iverson KR, Roa L, Lecca L, Sotomayor A, Mody GNAuthor
Katie Iverson MD, MPH Assistant Professor in the Surgery department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
Focus GroupsHealth Personnel
Humans
Qualitative Research
Referral and Consultation
Tuberculosis
