The OSHC-REU6, together with the Regional Coordinating Council on Tuberculosis Elimination in Western Visayas met via teleconference and discussed the new normal for TB elimination as an effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization-Philippines ranked Region 6 as top performing for case notification rate, new and relapse cases.
Ensuring the continuity of TB services during community quarantine, the Department of Health issued Department Order No. 2020-0128. According to the department order, screening shall continue subject to social distancing and infection control protocols. Also, treatment shifts from clinic-based to home-based had been enforced to further prevent hazardous contacts by the healthcare provider and the client. The clients will be provided with a 1-month supply of anti-TB drugs and will be followed-up by their assigned treatment partner via information-communication technology means. Moreover, there is flexibility in sputum collection for follow-up and standard short all oral regimen for drug-resistant TB has been implemented to encourage the patient-care approach.
According to Christine Mosqueda, DOH Regional NTP Coordinator, currently, a National TB Program adaptive plan is being formulated to address the displacement of persons with TB in the health system due to the COVID-19 situation. Measures and adjustments to the TB implementation program are specified with observance of infection prevention and control including physical distancing and wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment.
As for TB advocacy in the workplace, members of the team were able to conduct a 2-day monitoring in selected companies last February of this year before the nationwide community quarantine. During the monitoring, it was found out that the companies visited were conducting annual health exams which included chest X-rays. Workers with suspected TB signs and symptoms were referred to their company doctor or directly to the DOTS facility if they don't have a company doctor. It was also noted that some companies still do not have a TB policy in the workplace and were assisted by the team accordingly.
Melveen Melocoton, OSHC-REU6 representative said that private establishments are still reminded to implement their occupational safety and health policies and programs, especially on TB in compliance to the Republic Act 11058, otherwise known as the Act Strengthening the Occupational Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof, and its implementing rules and regulations (DOLE Department Order 198-18). The office is open to assist private establishments in assuring that their policies and programs are parallel with the OSH Standards. //MM
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