Neftaly: Strengthening TB Diagnosis Capacity and Quality, and Scaling Up Screening Among Vulnerable and At-Risk Populations
Early and accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) is critical to controlling the disease and preventing transmission. Increasing the detection of TB cases, especially among vulnerable and at-risk populations, ensures timely treatment and reduces the burden of TB in communities.
Neftaly (South African Youth Project) is dedicated to strengthening TB diagnostic capacity and quality, while scaling up targeted screening efforts to increase case detection and treatment initiation.
Program Goal
To enhance TB diagnostic capacity and quality, and scale up screening among vulnerable and at-risk groups, aiming to increase the number of TB cases detected and placed on treatment by 2.2% annually.
Strategic Objectives
- Improve access to high-quality TB diagnostic services at all health system levels.
- Expand and intensify TB screening programs targeting vulnerable and high-risk populations.
- Strengthen laboratory and clinical capacity for timely and accurate TB diagnosis.
- Promote linkage to care to ensure diagnosed cases start and complete appropriate treatment.
Key Intervention Areas
1. Diagnostic Capacity and Quality Improvement
- Upgrade laboratory infrastructure and equipment for TB diagnosis.
- Implement quality assurance systems and standard operating procedures.
- Train laboratory personnel and clinicians in modern TB diagnostic techniques.
2. Targeted Screening Scale-Up
- Conduct active TB case finding in vulnerable populations including people living with HIV, prisoners, migrants, and the urban poor.
- Integrate TB screening into existing health services and community outreach programs.
3. Linkage to Treatment
- Strengthen referral systems to ensure rapid initiation of treatment after diagnosis.
- Support patient follow-up and adherence through community health worker engagement.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Track screening coverage, case detection rates, and treatment initiation indicators.
- Use data to inform program improvements and resource allocation.
Expected Outcomes
- Increased availability and quality of TB diagnostic services.
- Higher rates of TB screening among vulnerable and at-risk populations.
- Annual increase of at least 2.2% in TB cases detected and placed on treatment.
- Improved treatment outcomes through timely diagnosis and care linkage.
Why It Matters
Strengthening TB diagnosis and scaling up targeted screening are essential steps toward ending TB transmission and mortality. Neftaly’s approach ensures that more people with TB are identified early and receive the care they need.
Partner with Neftaly
Neftaly collaborates with national TB programs, laboratories, and community partners to build robust diagnostic and screening systems that accelerate progress toward TB elimination.