TB Care

Combining mental health treatment with socioeconomic support may improve TB outcomes. No established guidelines exist for physical examination, invasive testing, or specialist referral decisions in this area. The lack of clear subjective and objective assessment guidance limits allied health professionals' ability to choose appropriate tools. Mental health support should be integrated into TB care from the earliest treatment phases and beyond active treatment. Routine mental health screening and basic psychological support are recommended within patient-centred TB care. Support programmes should not be limited to the standard TB treatment window because psychological burden can persist beyond bacteriological cure.