Former TB Scholars Program participant published as first author!

Interpreter usage and associations with latent tuberculosis infection treatment acceptance and completion in the USA among non-U.S.–born persons, 2012–2017

Rebecca Gonzalez-Rayes provides a synopsis of her article below.

Screening and treating latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among non-U.S.–born individuals is crucial for U.S. tuberculosis eradication efforts. One proposed method is the use of medical interpreters to minimize language barriers. This study delved into the impact of utilizing medical interpreters on LTBI treatment acceptance and completion. The Tuberculosis Epidemiologic Studies Consortium enrolled high-risk participants from ten U.S. sites and 18 affiliated clinics. We analyzed data from 8,761 non-U.S.-born persons with at least one positive TB test result and assessed factors influencing LTBI treatment offer, acceptance, and completion using logistic regressions. Our findings revealed that utilizing interpreters during the initial interview increased the likelihood of LTBI treatment acceptance. Factors such as homelessness and Pacific Islander identification were associated with lower treatment being offered, while disparities in treatment acceptance and completion were observed among Black and Latino individuals and those experiencing homelessness. Treatment completion also correlated with shorter rifamycin-based regimens. These findings point to a need for interpreter access in similar settings to lessen language barriers, whether that be an in-person interpreter, bilingual interpreter, or telephonic interpreter.

Utmost appreciation for the TB Scholars program which allowed me to learn so much about TB and my mentor Dr. Horne who shared this project with me and guided me through my first publication on a topic that I resonate with!

Find full article: Interpreter usage and associations with latent tuberculosis infection treatment acceptance and completion in the USA among non-U.S.–born persons, 2012–2017 | PLOS ONE