The ASCENT project

Rethinking optimal care for TB

Historically, the most widely-implemented means of supporting TB patients on treatment is Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) where a health care worker watches the medication being taken, either at a health care facility or at a patient’s home. The DOT approach has advanced global decline in TB incidence. However, innovations are needed to improve patient-centered care, enable a more efficient health care system and empower patients and health care workers so that a greater impact in curing and preventing all types of TB can be achieved.

Patient challenges with the current DOT approach:

Heavy workload for HCW in case of directly observing so many patients

Heavy workload for HCW in case of house visits to obeserve patients at home

DOTS: Not all patients require the same level of monitoring and support

Provider challenges with the current DOT approach:

With the app, healthcare workers have access to real-time adherence information per patient

The adherence platform can send healthcare workers automated alerts and reports about their patients, prompting action

Machine algorithms on the adherence platform help to automatically identify which patients need more attention/support

The ASCENT project helps patients successfully complete their course of treatment through the use of digital adherence technologies and data-driven support interventions, utilizing tools such as smart pill boxes and other innovations.

These digital adherence technologies empower patients to take their daily medication at a time and place that suits them best. Additionally they provide real-time information to the TB doctor or nurse, helping to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for each individual patient and by enabling focused efforts on those patients that require extra support.

At this moment, these technologies are only used on a small scale in the international fight against TB. The ASCENT project aims to make them accessible to all TB patients worldwide.

Potential patient benefits:

A patient can decide where to take their medication (e.g. at home).

Patient can be prompted by text message (SMS) to take a certain action (e.g. take their medication/doctor appointment).

Patient receives individualized information about their treatment via text messages (SMS) or voice recordings on their mobile phones.

Potential provider benefits:

With the app, healthcare workers have access to real-time adherence information per patient

The adherence platform can send healthcare workers automated alerts and reports about their patients, prompting action

Machine algorithms on the adherence platform help to automatically identify which patients need more attention/support

The ASCENT project is implemented in:

ukraine • Ethiopia • Tanzania • South africa • the philippines