FAMILY IMPLEMENTATION OF MEDICATION SUPERVISION IN PULMONARY TB PATIENTS AT DELI SERDANG REGENCY

Abstract

Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health problem, with transmission within the household being a major source of new cases. Appropriate preventive behaviors by immediate family members are crucial in breaking the chain of transmission. This study aims to comprehensively analyze and describe the implementation of medication supervision (DOTS/PMO) by family members for Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) patients at Deli Serdang Regency. To achieve these objectives, this study adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive phenomenological study design. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation with 15 immediate family members living with TB patients. Data were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis to identify behavioral patterns, barriers, and supports experienced by the participants. The study revealed that all family members took their complete anti-TB medication regimen regularly until they recovered, thanks to the family's involvement and collaboration with health workers at Deli Serdang Regency, who routinely conducted weekly monitoring. Health workers are expected to design more practical, contextual, and sustainable educational intervention programs that focus not only on the patient but also on empowering all family members as active prevention units, including providing psychosocial support to reduce the burden of caregiving.