Treating Tuberculosis Patients in Shida Kartli

The new "DOTS Spot" (specialized TB treatment rooms in state-run outpatient clinics where treatment is provided in accordance with internationally accepted directly observed treatment - short course (DOTS) procedures) received assistance through USAID's Tuberculosis Treatment and Control Project (TTCP).  TTCP is funding the renovation of four clinics in Shida Kartli in addition to the technical assistance it provides to the National TB Program and clinic staff. Three more DOTS Spots will serve patients in Gori, Kareli, and Khashuri. 

There are approximately 300 new TB cases registered annually in Shida Kartli, which represents nearly seven percent of the total number of cases reported in Georgia each year. Many patients risked interruptions in treatment due to the last summer's conflict. Interruptions in treatments are very dangerous to TB patients, because they can lead to the development of extremely drug resistant forms of TB (XDR-TB), which are practically incurable. The Dots Spot in Kaspi will serve 65-70 area TB patients. 

The overall goal of TTCP is to improve quality of TB diagnosis and treatment in Georgia. The TTCP project has worked in Tbilisi, Poti, and Adjara since 2003. The project was expanded to include locations in Shida Kartli after the August 2008 conflict. The funding is part of the U.S. Government's $1 billion pledge to support the people of Georgia.