Development of an operational model for tuberculosis prevention and control among migrant workers in Ranong Province.

Abstract

     This study aimed to 1) examine the current situation of tuberculosis control among migrant workers in Ranong Province, 2) develop a tuberculosis control model for migrant workers in Ranong Province, and 3) evaluate the effectiveness of the tuberculosis control model for migrant workers in Ranong Province. A mixed-methods participatory action research approach was employed, conducted from October 2024 to March 2025. The sample consisted of 100 stakeholders from various organizations, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and inductive content analysis.

     The findings revealed three major problems in tuberculosis control in Ranong Province: high mortality rates during treatment (12.12%), treatment default among patients, with Myanmar migrant workers having a default rate as high as 13.98%, and ineffective patient referral systems. The development process through participatory approach resulted in the BRIDGE model, comprising six main components: Building trust and community bonds, reaching vulnerable populations, Integrated service delivery, Data-driven decision making, Greater community engagement, and Empowerment and sustainability. The effectiveness evaluation showed significant improvements: Stakeholders expressed high satisfaction with the development model (mean score 4.30 out of 5.00).