Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The ongoing efforts under the National Tuberculosis (TB) Elimination Program are gaining significant momentum in Goa, as the state government intensifies its actions to eliminate TB. Health Minister Vishwajit Rane highlighted the importance of these coordinated efforts and expressed optimism about the state’s progress in the battle against TB. “Our goal is to make Goa the first TB-free state in India. With the implementation of these comprehensive directives, we are on track to eliminate tuberculosis in the state. Every patient’s care and treatment are being prioritized, and we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against TB,” said Rane.
Several key initiatives have been launched across Goa to ensure the successful implementation of the program. Among these, 100% implementation of the Nikshay Poshan Yojana stands out, with all TB patients in the state set to receive the benefits of the scheme. To ensure smooth disbursement, bank details of all patients will be collected on a priority basis. Additionally, medical officers, Community Health Officers (CHOs), and AYUSH doctors will be assigned to TB patients across Primary Health Institutions (PHIs) to reduce mortality and guarantee quality care.
In a bid to strengthen contact tracing, all household contacts of TB patients will be mapped, screened, and recorded in the Nikshay portal. Vulnerable populations will undergo chest X-rays, with reports uploaded in a timely manner by PHIs to facilitate early diagnosis. Geo-tagging of all TB patients receiving treatment will also be completed to ensure effective tracking and monitoring of treatment progress.
The state is prioritizing 100% adherence to Differentiated TB Care, ensuring that all treatment follow-ups and post-treatment monitoring are diligently recorded in the Nikshay portal. Furthermore, CHOs at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs will be visiting TB patients every 15 days to deliver follow-up care, monitor treatment adherence, and distribute incentives to encourage patient compliance.
In an effort to combat TB at the grassroots level, Goa is working towards declaring all Panchayats in the state as TB-free by meeting the six program-mandated criteria. Weekly progress reports will be submitted by all in-charges to the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) to track the state’s advancement toward this goal.
Minister Rane underscored the importance of community participation and collaboration with local governments and health professionals in achieving Goa’s TB elimination target. “We are not just treating TB; we are building a robust, long-term health framework for Goa. A TB-free Goa means better health for everyone, and we are determined to make it a reality,” he said.
With a multi-layered approach and unwavering commitment, Goa is set to play a crucial role in the national mission of a TB Mukt Bharat and a TB Mukt Goa, in line with the country’s vision of eliminating TB by 2025.
