With the TN-KET (TB Death-Free Initiative), Tamil Nadu has significantly reduced TB-related deaths by utilising a differentiated care model and a simple triage tool

What does TN-KET mean?

TN-KET (Kasanoi Erappila Thittam) is a TB mortality reduction initiative at the state level started by Tamil Nadu in 2022, concentrating on early diagnosis and specialized care for serious TB cases.

Main Attributes:

Paper Triage Tool: Evaluates 5 rapid indicators (BMI, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, leg edema, ability to stand) to categorize patients as “critically ill.”

Fast-Track Care: 98% of identified critical cases are admitted within a week.

Severe TB Web Application: Assesses mortality risk and assists in directing urgent actions.

Streamlined Evaluation: Requires no laboratory and reduces time by 6–7 days compared to previous 16-parameter instruments.

Tailored Care Approach: Provides personalized treatment considering age, BMI, severity, and accompanying health conditions.

Importance:

Decrease in Early Mortality: TN experienced a 20% reduction in early TB fatalities within 6 months of execution.

National Replicability: Establishes a scalable framework for high-burden TB states, in line with India’s National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).

Data-Driven Governance: Utilizes real-time assessment for focused actions.