Active Case Finding [ACF]
Active Case Finding (ACF) systematically screens at-risk populations for TB disease outside health facilities. This provider-initiated activity aims for early detection to reduce transmission and improve access to diagnosis for vulnerable groups.
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Active Case Finding
Active Case Finding is the systematic screening for TB disease among specified at-risk populations. It is a Health System/ Provider-initiated activity with the primary objective of detecting TB cases early, by not waiting for prevalent TB Cases in the population to seek care.
It is done in populations or communities outside the health facilities.
It is effort intensive and is only recommended in population groups where there is an estimated high case load such as among key/vulnerable populations.
Increased yield of case finding can be achieved by focusing on clinically, socially, and occupationally vulnerable populations.
Objective of ACF:
- To identify cases early and reduce the risk of transmission of TB.
- To increase access to diagnosis services for populations that would have been otherwise unreached.
Note: Beyond TB disease, ACF can also be used to identify individuals who are eligible for TB preventive treatment (TPT) after TB disease is ruled out.
Resources
- Training Modules for Programme Managers and Medical Officers
- Active TB Case Finding, Guidance Document
- WHO recommendations for Systematic Screening for Active Tuberculosis
Assessment Question
Which of the following is not a primary objective of ACF?
- Increase TB notification
- Early identification of cases.
- Reduce the risk of transmission of TB.
- Reduce the risk of poor treatment outcomes.
Correct answer: 1
Correct explanation: Notification is not a primary objective of ACF.
Part of Pre-test: Yes
Part of Post-test: Yes