Directly Observed Therapy, Short-course (DOTS)

Directly Observed Therapy, Short-course (DOTS), is a treatment approach for tuberculosis where health workers supervise patients as they take their medication. This ensures patients complete the full course of antibiotics, which is essential to cure the disease and prevent drug resistance. The program combines five key components: political commitment, case detection, standardized treatment, a consistent drug supply, and monitoring and evaluation. By directly observing patients, DOTS improves treatment adherence and success rates, making it an effective strategy in controlling and eventually eliminating TB.