MULTISECTOR COLLABORATION MODEL FOR TUBERCULOSIS CONTROL IN MEDAN: EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PENTAHELIX APPROACH AND TB-CONNECT APPLICATION

Abstract

This research examines the effectiveness of integrating the Pentahelix collaboration model with digital health technologies, specifically the TB-Connect application, in enhancing tuberculosis (TB) control efforts in Medan, Indonesia. Medan faces significant challenges in treatment adherence, healthcare worker efficiency, and multisectoral coordination. The Pentahelix model involves collaboration among government, academia, business, community organizations, and the media, aiming to strengthen public health responses and resource mobilization. Meanwhile, the TB-Connect application serves as a digital tool to improve patient adherence through automated reminders and real-time communication with healthcare providers. The results show that post-intervention, TB treatment adherence increased by 15%, and coordination among stakeholders improved significantly. Key informant interviews with healthcare workers and stakeholders highlighted the benefits of the model, though challenges in digital literacy and infrastructure remained. The integration of Pentahelix collaboration with digital health tools represents a promising approach to addressing the complex social and biomedical dimensions of TB.