Understanding the Patient Tuberculosis Experience with Sarah Bernays Artwork

The TBPod

The TBPod is a podcast for clinicians and policymakers caring for patients with tuberculosis. The podcasts present discussions with expert clinicians, researchers, policymakers and advocates about their work in the field of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and is an important contributor to morbidity among migrants arriving in Australia and New Zealand. There are around 1300 reported cases of TB in Australia each year, and a further 300 in New Zealand. Included in these figures are cases of multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB which pose significant barriers to treatment and management of the disease. The Australian government has committed to the global elimination of TB by 2030, but to do so requires the development of innovative new strategies, based on high-quality research, that has national and international reach. These podcasts aim to engage and update those who are interested in the field of tuberculosis through discussions with leaders in the field of tuberculosis.

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The TBPod

Understanding the Patient Tuberculosis Experience with Sarah Bernays

December 01, 2024 • Actnet

Associate Professor Sarah Bernays, co-director of the Masters of Global Health program at the University of Sydney, leads a social science research program focused on community engagement in infectious disease prevention, treatment, and care. Her work emphasizes understanding how individuals, households, and communities respond to health adversity, risk, and vulnerability while fostering resilience and hope.

In this episode, we explored the perspectives of tuberculosis patients, the challenges they face in accessing and receiving clinical care, and methods to identify what truly matters to them. We also examined strategies for clinicians and researchers to enhance their approaches to interventions. Finally, we highlighted the importance of cultural contexts and the value of patient expertise in shaping effective care.

1. Person-centered and youth-oriented interventions to improve TB Care for adolescents and young adults: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0003659