Evaluation of the VOT Among Tuberculosis Patients From Lambaréné

A Pilot Study to Evaluate Video Observed Treatment Among Tuberculosis Patients From Lambaréné Using an Instant Messenger Application

This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility of using an instant messenger to monitor drug intake in tuberculosis patients and to assess cash incentive to improve adherence to drug intake

At the initial visit, the inclusion criteria are cross-checked, the subject is informed of the study procedures, and an informed consent form is signed by subjects willing to participate.

For the participants from the intervention group, the research team will provide a smartphone with the WhatsApp application to each participant. At the initial visit, the research team will explain to the participants how to use the phone and the instant messenger application for the study. Briefly, the subject is filmed while taking the drug. This can be via a "selfie" or by a family member. The video is then sent to the study phone contact.

Once the video is received by an investigator, a message will be sent back to the participant's mobile phone acknowledging receipt of the video. An investigator trained on the DOT protocol, will review the video clips to assess if the drug was taken correctly or not. A daily log is filled in to keep track of drug intake for each participant.

Participants from both the control and intervention group are seen once per month in person for follow-ups and getting new drugs. At these time points information on drug intake is gathered.

Inclusion Criteria:

Older than 18 years

• Signed informed consent form
• Living in an area with mobile phone coverage
• Have at least 3 months of treatment remaining

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not being able to use a smartphone and unlikely to learn how to