Defining person-centred treatment support for multidrug-resistant TB: a discrete choice experiment

SUMMARY BACKGROUND Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) treatment remains challenging, with significant toxicity and associated hardships that undermine adherence and cure rates. Support packages may improve outcomes, but the features most valued by people with MDR-TB are unknown. METHODS A discrete choice experiment was performed among adults receiving MDR-TB treatment in Lusaka, Zambia. Five features (3–4 levels each) comprising a support package were evaluated through 12 choice tasks comparing hypothetical packages. RESULTS Among 99 participants (median age 36 years, 68.9% men, 42.4% HIV-positive), material support was the most valued feature (relative importance [RI] = 45.7%), with transport vouchers plus food assistance being the most preferred option. Visit frequency was also important (RI = 26.7%), with similar preferences for monthly and bimonthly visits. Participants preferred phone calls for visit reminders (RI = 11.8%), health care workers for emotional support (RI = 11.2%), and community-based health care workers or loved ones for treatment observation (RI = 4.7%). Three distinct preference groups were identified – all highly valued material support but varied in their preferences for other support features and their delivery. CONCLUSION Among people with MDR-TB in Zambia, material support mechanisms and less frequent clinic visits were highly valued. Incorporating patient preferences into treatment programmes could optimise MDR-TB care and improve treatment adherence and outcomes.