Overcoming barriers to the access and uptake of newer drugs for multidrug-resistant TB.

To improve the unsatisfactory treatment outcomes of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), it is essential we use new regimens based on newer drugs. To address challenges in the introduction of BDQ and the shorter treatment regimen (STR), the USAID has committed to support countries receiving BDQ (through the USAID/Janssen Bedaquiline Donation Program), with targeted short-term technical assistance (TA). Six MDR-TB clinical consultants were recruited and provided TA to 17 countries between 2017 and 2019. Building on other in-country support, this short-term TA proved instrumental in overcoming barriers, such as misconceptions about BDQ safety, inadequate clinical skills to manage patients and limited expansion plans to increase access to BDQ and the STR.