Bargarh: TB Mitra, a unique mobile-based application for TB-affected communities was launched in Bargarh, Tuesday, at Swayamsiddha Bhaban.
REACH, a non-profit organisation working on TB, has developed the app in partnership with Dure Technologies and with support from the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
Bargarh is the first district in the state to launch the pilot project, as part of collaboration between the State TB Cell, the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Odisha, and REACH.
The launch of TB Mitra took place in the presence of Collector and District Magistrate, Indramani Tripathy; Debesh Acharya, MLA and Chairman, District Planning Committee, Bargarh; Rita Sahu, MLA, Bijepur constituency; Prashant Behera, Chairman, Bargarh Municipality; Dr Sadhu Charan Dash, CDM & PHO, Bargarh; and Dr Sushant Swain, JD-TB, State TB Cell.
Speaking at the event, Collector Tripathy congratulated all stakeholders on the launch of the TB Mitra app. “TB elimination will not be possible without an emphasis on access to counselling. The app includes a feature to help users learn facts about TB and access services close to them”, he said.
Dr Sushant Swain, Joint Director, TB, said that Bargarh was chosen for the pilot phase of TB Mitra because of the high notification rates from the district. “The district RNTCP machinery is prioritising active case finding and notification and the app will help towards reaching TB-affected persons and linking them to services that are vital for their treatment and recovery”, he said.
The app, which is available for download on Android and iOS, provides basic information on TB, allows users to report issues they face at TB facilities, and maps of TB facilities available near a user’s location. Users will also be able to track issues they have reported and raise follow-up queries. The app will be rolled out across the state based on the findings from the pilot phase. TB Mitra is currently available in Odia, Hindi and English.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Debesh Acharya said: “I was introduced to TB-related issues when I participated in the Leaders for a TB-free World campaign on World TB Day 2018 with REACH. I will continue to work towards prioritising TB in my constituency. I request all community health workers and stakeholders to help take this TB Mitra app to the grassroots for it to benefit all those affected by TB.”
The launch event included voices from TB survivors and champions. Tukuna Jena, a TB champion, spoke at the event and underlined the need for innovative tools and means to fight TB.
PNN