MCD uses tech to keep tab on TB patients

“The moment a patient’s details — like contact number,address,name and age — are entered in the DOT centre database,the computer will generate a calendar. The calendar will give dates for next dosage for the patient. The staff at the centre will get a computer-generated list of patients,who default on their medicine schedule,” said the official.

Centralised data means that a patient’s details can be updated even if he visits another DOT centre. In case a patient does not turn up for the scheduled treatment,the staff will contact him,said officials.

Officials said the patient’s medical history will be recorded and will be available for access by all MCD hospitals,which will be linked through Intranet.

“The rate of defaulters is high,and we need to reduce it. If a patient does not turn up for medication,the staff could be asked to visit the patient’s home and give the medicine,” said the official.

Starting Wednesday,DOT centres’ staff will be trained to use the software to track patients.

“We have named it DOTs Defaulters’ Identification Programme,” said the official.

The civic body is also issuing a unified patient registration card,which will ensure provision of treatment at any major health institution under its umbrella.