Background

Despite renewed focus on molecular tuberculosis (TB) diagnostics and new antimycobacterial agents, treatment outcomes for patients co-infected with drug-resistant TB and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remain dismal, in part due to lack of focus on medication adherence as part of a patient-centered continuum of care.

Objective

To review current barriers to drug-resistant TB-HIV treatment and propose an alternative model to conventional approaches to treatment support.

Discussion

Current national TB control programs rely heavily on directly observed therapy (DOT) as the centerpiece of treatment delivery and adherence support. Medication adherence and care for drug-resistant TB-HIV could be improved by fully implementing team-based patient-centered care, empowering patients through counseling and support, maintaining a rights-based approach while acknowledging the responsibility of health care systems in providing comprehensive care, and prioritizing critical research gaps.

Conclusion

It is time to re-invent our understanding of adherence in drug-resistant TB and HIV by focusing attention on the complex clinical, behavioral, social, and structural needs of affected patients and communities.