Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by bacteria that usually attacks the lungs causing pain and sometimes death. TB has been a leading cause of death in the United States and around the world for many years.

TB is curable however. Directly observed therapy (DOTS) has been a very successful system both financially and strategically in controlling TB. The objective of DOTS strategies is to decrease the risk of infection, reduce morbidity and transfusion of the infection, and prevent TB-related deaths.

In order for DOTS to achieve these specific goals, DOTS must identify the TB problem in the US and around the world. The responsibility of DOTS is to directly observe all cases by monitoring medication intake on each case for up to eight months. The main purpose of this strategic plan is to prevent the development of multidrug-resistance and maintain full control of the TB problem.

Mr. Jeneson at the New Mexico Public Health Department was very optimistic about the control of TB in Albuquerque and the US. Lovato’s efforts are to make sure that all cases are monitored heavily to ensure that every patient is consuming the right medication at all times. Jeneson also spoke of the importance of DOTS and the dedication of both employees and patients in resolving the TB issue once and for all.

Jeneson spoke of how DOTS-dedicated employees must make sure that each patient is attending to their medication visits. Jeneson noted that if a patient does not show up or ignores their calls, they will personally go out to locate this patient and make sure they are up to date on their medications. Although it is against the law to force anyone to take medications, DOTS employees disregard that issue to ensure that we are all safe from TB. 

The DOTS system is here to assess 70% of TB cases and ensure that at least 85% of all cases are under complete control. With direct observation of treatment, DOTS anticipates that at least 80% of TB-related deaths worldwide will be under complete control. So far, DOTS has been very successful; however, with the help of the World Health Organization, DOTS will reach all countries and specifically developing ones.

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