An information system for monitoring tuberculosis cases: implementation research protocol using RE-AIM for a health region in Brazil

Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease and one of the biggest public health problems in the world despite being curable. Research is still needed that considers operational aspects of treatment and control of its spread. Considering this scenario, the need to develop software that provides real-time information about the patient's path along health information systems for clinical decision-making is fundamental. Because of this, a region made up of 26 municipalities will implement a computerized system to monitor tuberculosis cases, the SISTB. However, the implementation of new technology can result in the creation of new functions and cause changes in the existing ones. Implementation research can be used as an approach where evidence can be provided to guide the use of digital technology in tuberculosis care. The RE-AIM framework provides a model to inform this research. Thus, this work aims to report the protocol of a study to evaluate the implementation of a health information system to assist in the monitoring of tuberculosis treatment, using the RE-AIM. The implementation will be carried out in 5 phases: i) define the locations that will receive the intervention; ii) prepare people to receive the intervention iii) train key people; iv) adapt the SISTB and/or the training according to the discussions in the previous phase; v) follow up and monitor the support of the technology. The data collected for the evaluation will come from the database of the implemented system, questionnaires, and training meetings. The forecast for the study conclusion is the end of 2023. As a result, we hope that the SISTB implementation will increase the positive outcomes of tuberculosis patients' treatment.