The partnership between the Research Center Borstel and the Institute for Phthisiopneumology in Chisinau has set itself the goal of improving treatment for patients with tuberculosis and other lung diseases.
Problem: Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe and has one of the highest rates of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). The position of TB physician, however, is not economically attractive, nor is it respected within society. The result is that no adequate medical care is available to tuberculosis patients.
Main activities: Within the framework of the partnership project, advanced training measures are conducted for medical staff in Moldova, covering for instance the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis. Methods for testing multidrug resistant tuberculosis are to be used and standardised guidelines implemented.
Short-term results: The partnership is designed to help improve the quality of care available to TB patients at the partner hospital. Administrative structures are to be optimised in the long term.
Long-term results: A gradual shift in the profile of lung specialists, to bring it into line with what is customary in the west, is to raise the acceptance of TB specialists. This should impact positively on the health situation and quality of life of tuberculosis patients.