Centralisation within the field of pulmonary medicin

Ugeskr Læger 2006;168(15):1553-1555

In Denmark tuberculosis is rare, with 7.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In regions with few cases, lack of expertise may result in delay in diagnosis, improper treatment, and insufficient contact tracing. We suggest that tuberculosis is dealt with in one centre in each of the five regions in Denmark. LTOT is initiated and controlled by pulmonary specialists in 50% of cases only. Correct indication and follow up is better for patients who received LTOT by pulmonary specialists with a higher patient compliance. We conclude that LTOT should be centralised and treated by pulmonary specialists only.