Perceived Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Tuberculosis Care, Patient Support, and Psychosocial Well-Being in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
TL;DR
TB treatment was largely maintained; however, income loss, lack of follow-up, and psychosocial strain highlight the need for stronger patient-centred support systems during public health emergencies.
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted health systems globally, undermining continuity of essential services such as tuberculosis (TB) care, particularly in resource-limited settings. In Zimbabwe, where TB is closely linked to poverty and fragile social determinants, these disruptions exposed weaknesses in patient support, access to care, and system resilience. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 304 adult TB patients attending seven city health clinics in Bulawayo. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. Of the respondents, 59% (178) initiated TB treatment after COVID-19 restrictions, while 41% (126) began treatment before the pandemic. Economic disruption was pronounced, with 63% (191) reporting partial or complete income loss. Support for TB patients in the community was limited, with 91% (276) reporting no follow-up during treatment. Negative emotional responses were commonly reported, with 37% (114) experiencing stress, 34% (102) anxiety, 25% (76) fear, and 4% (12) irritability. Despite these challenges, 97% (294) perceived COVID-19 information as adequate. TB treatment was largely maintained; however, income loss, lack of follow-up, and psychosocial strain highlight the need for stronger patient-centred support systems during public health emergencies.