Development of Tuberculosis Management Model with Participation of Network Partners in Border Areas of Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This action research aimed to 1) examine the situation and management of tuberculosis in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province; 2) develop a tuberculosis management model with the participation of network partners in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province; and 3) evaluate the effectiveness of the model in the same context. The sample was selected using purposive sampling. Phase 1 included 15 public health personnel and 48 network partners in the border areas. Phase 2 focused on the development of the model, involving 4 participants comprising public health personnel, network partners, tuberculosis patients, and their families, as well as an implementation group consisting of 15 tuberculosis patients and their caregivers. Phase 3 evaluated the model among public health personnel, network partners, and tuberculosis patients, their families, and at-risk groups in the border areas, totaling 82 participants. The research was carried out between October 2024 and June 2025. The study collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically the paired t-test. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The results of the Phase 1 research revealed that, over the past five years (2020–2024), tuberculosis management primarily focused on screening that met the national criteria. However, the overall approach to solving tuberculosis-related problems was not systematic and lacked community participation. Phase 2 focused on the development of a tuberculosis management model with the participation of network partners in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province. The TB CD Model consists of four key components: T (Teamwork), which aims to strengthen multidisciplinary teams within the local area; B (Border Collaboration), which fosters partnerships with network stakeholders in the border regions; C (Communication), which emphasizes effective interaction in multicultural contexts; and D (Data Excellence), which involves the management of an accurate and comprehensive data system. This model was designed to address the complex challenges of tuberculosis control by leveraging collaborative efforts and robust data management. Phase 3: Evaluation of the model implementation revealed statistically significant improvements among patients in knowledge (p = 0.039), self-care (p <0.001), participation (p = 0.005), and satisfaction (p <0.001). Additionally, the rate of treatment completion increased, while medication discontinuation decreased. Therefore, effective management and resolution of tuberculosis problems in border areas require the development of strong teams, active participation of network partners, effective communication, and robust database management. These components collectively contribute to sustainable solutions for tuberculosis control.