A new scoping review published in Global Health Action demonstrates that mobile health platforms are transforming tuberculosis contact investigation practices in high-burden countries. Community health workers equipped with digital tools can now conduct faster, more systematic TB contact investigations without relying on centralized laboratory facilities, significantly reducing diagnostic delays.
The evidence shows that mHealth-supported contact tracing improves completion rates of preventive therapy among exposed household members. However, successful implementation requires substantial investment in internet infrastructure and comprehensive staff training. The review identifies critical challenges, including limited connectivity in 87% of health systems and insufficient training capacity in 76%, alongside concerns about data security and device availability.
Experts emphasize that scaling these interventions depends on integration with existing national TB control programmes and health information systems. Read the full article on GMJ Newsroom.
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