Innovatively addressing the challenge of maintaining binocular microscopes under Tuberculosis Programme in India - Is this feasible?

BACKGROUND: India is a high TB burden country. The preferred first line diagnostic tool under National TB Programme is sputum smear microscopy through binocular microscopes (BMs) from 13,000 designated microscopy centres across the country. The programme had devised innovative strategy for maintenance of BMs. A study was conducted to look into the operational feasibility of an external agency to provide maintenance services for BMs engaged through newer strategy.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Rajasthan during 2010-2013.

RESULTS: A total of 9314 BMs were serviced during the period 2011-2013, of which 1104 (11.8%) had major repairs, 2204 (23.6%) had minor repairs, 1054 (11.3%) were provided emergency breakdown services and 223 (2.4%) were condemned.

CONCLUSION: The bold initiative and newer strategy of the programme to engage agencies for BMs maintenance services is worthwhile and should be continued and could be considered for replication across the country.