Stimulating Focus on MDR-TB
Since TB programs finally have a tool to quickly diagnose RIF resistance, they need to ensure that the capacity to treat confirmed MDR-TB patients keeps pace with diagnosis. The early detection of MDR-TB cases through Xpert must create new treatment sites and strengthen existing policies and guidance to treat MDR-TB patients. Similarly, increased detection of MDR-TB should increase the market for second-line anti-TB drugs and potentially drive the cost of these drugs down.
Increased detection of MDR-TB through Xpert could increase the market for second-line anti-TB drugs and drive costs down.