@article{Meghji:2026,
author = {Meghji, J},
journal = {BMJ Open Respiratory Research},
title = {Post-TB care in the UK: a national survey of existing practice},
year = {2026}
}

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TY  - JOUR
AB  - BackgroundTB survivors experience high mortality and long-term morbidity, contributing substantially to the global TB burden. In the UK, where TB incidence is rising, the scale of post-TB health needs is unknown and current guidelines do not recommend follow-up. We conducted the first nationwide survey of UK TB services to assess approaches to post-TB care.MethodsWe conducted a digital survey between February and May 2025 across NHS TB services in all four nations, targeting specialist clinicians. The questionnaire captured data on types of post-TB morbidity encountered and current practice. We analysed descriptively and stratified by caseload.ResultsWe received responses from 113 of 135 TB services (84%). Most respondents were lead clinicians (81%), and nearly all (96%) had encountered post-TB morbidity in their patient populations, including lung disease (82%), social vulnerabilities (79%), and financial issues (66%). High caseload services (≥30 cases/year) reported more types of morbidity (mean 4.2 vs 2.9; p<0.001). While end of treatment symptom screening and chest X-rays are routine (>95%), fewer than half of services perform assessments for broader post-TB sequelae and comorbidities, or provide direct ongoing medical care (41%). Most services cited staffing (78%), clinic capacity (70%), and funding (59%) as challenges to post-TB care.ConclusionsA high proportion of UK TB clinicians recognise post-TB morbidity among their patient groups. TB services are introducing elements of post-TB care, but provision is heterogenous and often informal, with multiple resource-related challenges. Robust UK-specific data, stakeholder engagement, and clear guidance are needed to support post-TB care pathways.
AU  - Meghji,J
PY  - 2026///
SN  - 2052-4439
TI  - Post-TB care in the UK: a national survey of existing practice
T2  - BMJ Open Respiratory Research
ER  - 

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