[Possible role of committees concerned with the fight against tuberculosis and respiratory diseases in home ventilatory assistance of severe chronic respiratory insufficient patients (author's transl)].

It appeared that the departmental committees involved in the fight against tuberculosis and respiratory diseases were qualified to bring assistance to severe chronic respiratory insufficient (C.R.I.) patients. This modified course of action replaces their previous struggle against tuberculosis due to its recession. In Seine-Maritime the committee has signed an agreement with the principal Social Security organizations. This agreement defines the modalities and cost of home care for severe C.R.I. patients who have been tracheostomized permanently and whose condition justifies the continuation of assisted ventilation. Contingent on certain medical and socio-family conditions, the return home of such patients is possible. Thus in 15 years we have been able to benefit 72 patients with assisted endo-tracheal ventilation at home. Thirty-two of them are actually still living.