The Role of Patient Provider Support Agencies (PPSA) in Supporting the Private Sector Providers and Their Patients in Tuberculosis Care: The Perspectives and experiences of Private Sector providers in an Eastern Indian state

Abstract

Introduction: More than half of TB patients in India seek medical care at private facilities. Several models have been tested for effective private-sector engagement in TB care. Patient-Provider Support Agencies (PPSA) offer end-to-end TB care to private-sector TB patients.

Objectives: This study aimed to understand the perspectives and experiences of private sector providers regarding the role of PPSA in delivering services to their TB patients in Odisha.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive method was employed to study purposively selected private sector providers across seven PPSA districts in Odisha.

Results: Among the 20 private sector providers, 15% notify more than 15 cases each year, while 20% notify fewer than five cases annually. All providers were aware that TB is a notifiable disease, and 95% knew someone from the PPSA agency in their district. The providers strongly believe that PPSA is an effective model for delivering services to their patients. 

Conclusions: PPSA agencies provide essential support for private-sector patients in executing public health actions and enhancing private-sector notification.