Latent Tuberculosis Infection Treatment Outcomes in an At-Risk Underserved Population in Rhode Island

Objectives Within the United States (US), significant racial and ethnic disparities exist in the rates of latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. A disproportionate number of TB disease cases result from untreated LTBI among individuals born outside the US. This study evaluates LTBI treatment outcomes among an underserved, at-risk population in Rhode Island. Methods A quantitative retrospective chart review of adult patients with a positive screening test assessed LTBI care cascade outcomes including referral, treatment initiation, and completion. Results Seventy-four percent of patients found to have positive screening TB tests were born outside of the US; 80% identified as Hispanic or Black and 45% spoke a preferred language other than English. Twenty-one percent of potential candidates for LTBI treatment initiated treatment. Conclusions Major gaps were identified in referral success and treatment initiation. Expanding LTBI treatment access into primary care settings could be a solution to improve outcomes and decrease health inequities among at-risk communities.