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Overview
The Enhanced Case Finding (ECF) – Karachi TB Program integrates mental health support into tuberculosis (TB) care to improve treatment adherence and outcomes. Recognizing the strong link between TB and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, ECF provides screening, counseling, and follow-up services for individuals affected by TB in Orangi Town, Karachi West. ECF operates in Orangi Town, Karachi West, with camps held at multiple locations to maximize accessibility within the community.
22,000+
individuals screened for mental health concerns
1,400+
individuals enrolled for lay counselling
580
individuals completed counselling
6%
prevalence of symptomatic cases identified among healthcare site visitors
65%
counselling completion rate among enrolled participants
Our Partners
- GiveWell – Program funder and strategic partner in implementing mental health support initiatives alongside TB care
The Need
The Need
Mental health disorders
Mental health disorders are highly prevalent among TB patients, affecting 54% to 70% of cases. Anxiety and depression often co-occur with TB, creating barriers to treatment adherence and jeopardizing recovery. Without addressing mental health, TB treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. Integrated care, which combines physical and mental health assessments, is essential to address patients’ full range of needs.
Our Approach: Delivery
ECF implements an integrated healthcare model where mental health screenings are embedded into TB care. Camp-based services provide:
- Regular screenings for TB, HCV, diabetes, hypertension, and other health concerns.
- Mental health assessments using validated tools like PHQ-4 for anxiety and depression.
- Counseling and support services to address psychological distress and improve treatment adherence.
- Ongoing follow-ups to ensure patients complete their prescribed TB treatment successfully.
By addressing both physical and mental health, ECF ensures a holistic approach that improves recovery and overall wellbeing.
Impact
- Targets individuals affected by TB in Orangi Town, Karachi West.
- Multiple weekly camps within a 3 km radius of IRD’s WellCheck Center.
- Supports patients in adhering to TB treatment while addressing co-occurring mental health concerns.
- Strengthens overall patient outcomes by integrating mental health into routine TB care.
Our partners
PDI has a nationwide footprint, focusing on districts identified by the national STH survey— 47 at-risk districts requiring annual deworming.
The Drivers Behind Our Impact
The Drivers Behind Our Impact
Integrated care model
combining physical and mental health screenings.
Community-based outreach
through localized camps for easy access.
Evidence-based mental health assessments
Local volunteers enhance awareness, support adherence, and reduce stigma.
Evidence-driven approach
and counseling using validated tools.
Continuous follow-up and support
to ensure treatment adherence and holistic recovery.