A Review of the Impact of Patent Medicine Vendors in Driving Community Tuberculosis Case Finding in the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria

Abstract

This review elucidates the pivotal role of patent medicine vendors (PMVs) in advancing community tuberculosis (TB) case finding in Nigeria, amidst the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By synthesizing insights from in-depth analyses, the article explores PMVs’ adaptability, knowledge, community trust, and contributions to TB case-finding efforts during this unprecedented period. The study reveals that PMVs, despite varying levels of knowledge on TB symptoms and diagnosis, have demonstrated significant resilience and adaptability, incorporating innovative approaches such as virtual consultations to sustain case finding during the pandemic. Their substantial involvement in health-care delivery, especially in underserved areas, and the evident community trust in their services, positions them as crucial health-care resources in regions with limited access to formal health-care services. However, the review also uncovers challenges, including the need for quality assurance and adherence to guidelines, and emphasizes the importance of tailored training programs to bridge knowledge gaps and empower PMVs to contribute more effectively to early TB detection. The study underscores the potential of PMVs to bridge gaps in health-care access and advocates for strengthened collaborations between PMVs and formal health-care systems to optimize their role in identifying and referring suspected TB cases effectively. In conclusion, the article highlights the transformative contribution of PMVs in TB case finding in Nigeria, during the COVID-19 pandemic and proposes recommendations to enhance their impact through capacity strengthening, integration into formal health-care systems, and leveraging innovative technologies. The findings suggest that harnessing the potential of PMVs can significantly contribute to controlling TB and improving public health outcomes, especially in anticipation of further outbreaks, by fostering a more community-centered approach to case finding.