Table 2 Research protocol summary

To determine reasons for initial LTFU from the perspective of service providers

In-depth interviews

TB Program Managers/WBOT Managers (min 6)

Structured interview guide

Knowledge of the TB program; reasons for initial LTFU

Thematic analysis

To understand the nature of the work of WBOTs (spread, their reach, potential limitations they foresee with TB follow up work)

In-depth interviews/Focus group discussion

WBOT members from facilities with functional WBOTs (min 4)

Structured interview guide

Knowledge of the work of the WBOTs

Thematic analysis

To determine the effectiveness of WBOTs in reducing initial LTFU among TB patients

Randomized controlled trial

Patients testing for TB

TB positive patients (312)

Data from TB case identification register and from TB treatment initiation registers to a study data abstraction form

Treatment initiation within 4 weeks of submitting sputum for diagnosis

Descriptive analysis

Chi square statistics regression analysis (cox and multinomial)

To determine the effectiveness of SMS technology in reducing initial LTFU among TB patients

Randomized controlled trial

Patients testing for TB

TB positive patients (312)

Data from TB case identification register and from TB treatment initiation registers to a study data abstraction form

Treatment initiation within 4 weeks of submitting sputum for diagnosis

Descriptive analysis

Chi square statistics regression analysis (cox and multinomial)

To describe the implementation process of distribution of paper note and SMS reminders to patients testing for TB from the perspectives of TB patients and of WBOTs

Descriptive case study

TB patients (min 6)

WBOTs (min 6)

In-depth interviews

Perceptions of TB patients and those of WBOTs of the process of distribution of reminder messages

Thematic analysis