Tubod, Lanao del Norte – The provincial government of Lanao del Norte intensified its campaign against the deadly Tuberculosis last May 30, 2011 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the province-wide implementation of the private-public mix DOTS at Macapagal Training Center, Pigcarangan, Tubod, this province.

Since 1996, the National TB Control Program (NTP) already adopted the directly observed treatment short-course (DOTS) strategy. By the end of 2001, more than 90% of the population have access to it. Cohort analysis revealed good treatment outcomes.

The theme for this year’s launching program is “Your help is what we need” which amplified the need for all the stakeholders to work together to control the spread of Tuberculosis in the country.

The launching program was participated by personnel from the Department of Health, Food and Drug Regulation staff, members of the provincial coordinating committee, provincial health office staff, municipal health officers, private doctors, chief of government hospitals, league of nurses, Lanao del Norte Medical Society members, barangay health workers and officers from various health organizations.

Prior to the program, a motorcade from the coastal town of Baroy to the provincial capitol building was organized by the Lanao del Norte Bikers Association led by Lyndon G. Calica.

With the MOU signing between the provincial LGU and the Department of Health, Provincial Health Officer Dra. Melania Untao expressed her optimism on the fight against TB.

“With the support of all the stake holders from the private and public sectors, we will be able to effectively prevent the spread of TB in our communities and hopefully bring the incidence of TB to zero here in Lanao del Norte”, Untao said.

There are four models developed for the public–private mix (PPM) DOTS in service delivery.  The private DOTS clinics provide the space, staff and operational funds while the Department of Health (DOH) provided technical assistance, anti-TB drugs, laboratory supplies and forms.

Evaluation showed that PPM in TB control is feasible with good results. The major challenge is to replicate and institutionalize the PPM DOTS.

For his part, Provincial Administrator Joselito Quibranza also expressed his appreciation to the private sectors for partnering with government in the elimination of tuberculosis in this part of the country. LAR/PIO-LDN