Evaluation of a medication monitor-based treatment strategy for drug-sensitive tuberculosis patients in China: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
James J. Lewis, Xiaoqiu Liu, Zhiying Zhang, Bruce V. Thomas, Anna Vassall, Sedona Sweeney, Xu Caihong, Hu Dongmei, Li Xue, Gao Yongxin, Shitong Huan, Jiang Shiwen & Katherine L. Fielding.
Abstract
Treatment for drug-sensitive tuberculosis (TB) is taken for at least 6 months and problems with adherence are common. Therefore, there is substantial interest in the possible use of eHealth interventions to support patients to take their treatment. Electronic medication monitors have been shown to improve adherence to TB medication, but the impact on clinical outcomes is unknown. We aim to evaluate the impact of a medication monitor-based treatment strategy for drug-sensitive TB patients on a composite poor outcome measured over 18 months from start of TB treatment.