DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.25.0173 ISSN: 1027-3719
TB and mental health integration: lessons from WHO feasibility pilots in Ghana, Kenya, and Pakistan
A.C. Sweetland, J. Galea, I. Parupudi, Y. Adusi-Poku, A. Boadu, R.P. Frimpong-Mansoh, S. Gilani, A. Gitonga, L. Gyimah, I. Kathure, S.A. Khan, K.L. Ahmad, J.N. Nato, E. Omesa, B. Okotu, M.A. Safdar, K. Senya, M. van Den Boom, A. Malik, E. JaramilloTB and mental health integration is an essential element of people-centred care. To assess its feasibility, the WHO conducted demonstration pilots in Ghana, Kenya, and Pakistan. A four-phase implementation process was developed and implemented, with engagement of key stakeholders at the national and sub-national levels. Each country implemented a tailored approach. Ghana identified three facilities representing different levels of care. Kenya implemented in two counties with existing mental health infrastructure. Pakistan implemented across an entire district with sub-optimal TB outcomes. Across all sites, TB and mental health integration was recognised as essential and feasible to improve people-centred care.