Makassar, Indonesia July 08 2026/PMN-RG/ – Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, and Indonesia continues to face a significant burden of TB cases. While medical treatment and diagnostic technologies are essential, an often-overlooked factor in successful TB control is patient satisfaction. When patients feel respected, supported, and understood by healthcare providers, they are more likely to complete treatment and achieve better health outcomes.
A recent study conducted in Makassar, Indonesia, highlights an important reality: fighting TB is not only about providing medicine it is also about providing quality care. The research found that many patients were dissatisfied with several aspects of TB treatment services, including limited clinic operating hours, inadequate communication with healthcare workers, insufficient TB-HIV education, poor infrastructure, and lack of social support. These challenges may seem minor, but they can significantly influence a patient’s willingness and ability to continue treatment.
TB treatment is a long journey that often lasts six months or more. During this period, patients frequently face emotional stress, financial difficulties, transportation barriers, and social stigma. If healthcare services fail to address these challenges, treatment adherence may decline, increasing the risk of treatment failure and disease transmission within communities.
One of the most striking findings from the study was the strong need for transportation, food, and financial assistance. Many patients reported that economic challenges made it difficult to attend healthcare appointments regularly. This finding demonstrates that healthcare is not only a medical issue but also a social and economic one. Providing supportive services can make a meaningful difference in helping patients remain committed to treatment.
The study also revealed concerns regarding communication between healthcare providers and patients. Effective communication builds trust, improves understanding, and encourages patients to actively participate in their own care. Patients who receive clear explanations and have opportunities to discuss their concerns are more likely to feel confident and satisfied with the treatment process.
These findings directly support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Achieving SDG 3 requires more than expanding access to healthcare services. It also demands improvements in service quality, patient-centered care, health education, and equitable support systems for vulnerable populations.
As Indonesia continues its efforts to eliminate TB, policymakers and healthcare providers should recognize that patient satisfaction is not merely a performance indicator. It is a critical component of effective disease control. Investments in better communication, improved facilities, integrated TB-HIV services, and social assistance programs can strengthen treatment success and contribute to healthier communities.
Ultimately, patients are not just recipients of healthcare they are partners in the fight against tuberculosis. Listening to their experiences and responding to their needs may be one of the most powerful strategies for achieving a TB-free future.
Reference:
DOI. https://doi.org/10.52774/jkfn.v8i2.412
Contact:
Dr. Yuliana Syam, S.Kp., Ns, M.Si.
+6281342012733
yulianasyam@unhas.ac.id
