Peran apoteker komunitas di apotek dan klinik wilayah Surakarta dalam skrining tuberkulosis: studi pengetahuan, sikap dan praktek

Evaluating the contribution of community pharmacists to tuberculosis screening: a knowledge, attitude, and practice study

Abstract

The target of tuberculosis (TB) elimination by 2030 will be difficult to achieve without the active participation of all healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. However, the involvement of pharmacists in TB screening and case reporting programs remains low. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of community pharmacists in screening patients for TB. The research design employed was an observational study with a cross-sectional data collection approach. The study subjects were pharmacists working in pharmacies and clinics within the Surakarta area. Sampling was conducted using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through an online survey using a Google Form questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed by the researchers based on the National Guidelines for Tuberculosis Management and had been previously validated. The results from 53 respondents showed that the majority (37.73%) had a moderate level of knowledge regarding TB screening. However, most respondents demonstrated a positive attitude (54.72%) and good practices in the early detection of suspected TB cases. The main challenges in TB screening within the community are patient-related barriers and the absence of a standardized reporting system.