Original site: www.cdc.gov/tb/webcourses/TB101/page16489.html | RestoredCDC.org is an independent project, not affiliated with CDC or any federal entity. Visit CDC.gov for free official information. Due to archival on January 6, 2025, recent outbreak data is unavailable. Videos are not restored. Access data.restoredcdc.org for restored data. Use of this site implies acceptance of this disclaimer.

[More]

About Us Report Bug Compare Content

SKIP TO CONTENT

HOME

GLOSSARY

EXIT

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348

https://wwwn.cdc.gov/dcs/ContactUs/Form

USA.gov

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

 

The most effective strategy to ensure adherence to treatment is directly observed therapy (DOT). DOT means that a health care worker or another designated person watches the TB patient swallow each dose of the prescribed drugs. During DOT encounters, the health care worker also asks the patient about any problems or side effects with the medication.

 

DOT can be conducted either in person or remotely (for example, over a smartphone, tablet, or computer). DOT conducted remotely is called electronic DOT (eDOT). DOT should be done at a time and place that is convenient for the patient.

 

DOT should be used for ALL patients with TB disease, including children and adolescents. There is no way to accurately predict whether a patient will adhere to treatment without this assistance.

Directly observed therapy (DOT): A strategy used to ensure TB patient adherence to and tolerability of the prescribed treatment regimen; a health care worker or another designated person watches the TB patient swallow each dose of the prescribed drugs.

Electronic directly observed therapy (eDOT): DOT that is delivered remotely (e.g., over a smartphone, tablet, or computer). eDOT can either be real-time or recorded.

In-person directly observed therapy (DOT)