Distribution and Availability of Essential Tuberculosis Diagnostic Items in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Adequate supplies of tuberculosis laboratory reagents and consumables are necessary for tuberculosis diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response. This study assessed the distribution and stock levels of laboratory commodities used in tuberculosis control in health centers of Amhara region, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 82 health centers, among 801, providing sputum microscopy services. Stock levels were calculated, and distribution of reagents and consumables assessed. Thirty three (40.2%) health centers were under stocked for at least one of the key items for tuberculosis diagnosis at the time of visit. Fifteen (18.3%) health centers had no stocks of at least one of the key items (methylene blue (11%), carbol fuchsin (11%), acid alcohol (8.5%) and sputum cups (3.7%)). Of the 82 health centers, 77 (93.9%) did not fulfill the criteria for effective distribution of tuberculosis laboratory reagents and consumables. There were many health centers that had no or only low stocks of key tuberculosis laboratory reagents and consumables as a result of ineffective distribution system. It is necessary to strengthen supply chain management to ensure uninterrupted TB diagnostic service.

Below:  Flow chart showing distribution system of tuberculosis laboratory reagents and consumables in Ethiopia, 2014

Below:  Under stock of tuberculosis laboratory commodities at health centers in Amhara region, 2014

Below:  Distribution criteria for tuberculosis diagnostic reagents and consumables in Amhara region, 2014

Full article at:  http://goo.gl/kRF4cS

By:  

Mulusew Alemneh Sinishaw, Melashu Balew Shiferaw

Bahir Dar Regional Health Research Laboratory Center, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

Gebremedhin Berhe Gebregergs

School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

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