Implementing Efficient On-Site TB Testing for a Major NYC Public Healthcare Organization

The Need

A major NYC public healthcare organization responsible for ensuring public health standards in emergency housing facilities was seeing an increase in the number of individuals entering their shelter system. Many were non-English speakers. All required tuberculosis testing, and they had a tight timeline and budget.

Objective

To develop and execute a comprehensive tuberculosis screening program for shelter residents that would:

• Maximize participation rates across language barriers
• Efficiently collect and process specimens
• Deliver accurate and timely test results to ensure proper follow-up
• Accomplish all goals within strict time and budget constraints

Challenges

• Accelerated Implementation Timeline: The project moved from initial discussions on January 30, 2025, to serving the first patient by February 19, 2025 — demonstrating a swift and efficient launch within just 20 days.
• Language Barriers: The team encountered residents speaking 12-plus languages other than English, creating significant communication challenges for medical consent and testing procedures.
• Scheduling Constraints: The program needed to be completed within a tight 6½ week timeframe with flexible shifts to meet varying schedules.
• Resource Limitations: Field teams had to manage over 1,000 hours of work to avoid overtime costs.
• Medical Complexity: QFT tests require proper specimen collection, handling, and timely processing to ensure accurate results.
• Results Management: Tracking and communicating results of hundreds of individuals efficiently and securely presented logistical challenges.

Solutions

We developed and executed a multi-faceted strategy to overcome the obstacles, including:  

• On-Site Services: By deploying our comprehensive testing services directly to the shelter location, we were able to meet the patient population where they were at, fundamentally increasing participation.
• Multi-Lingual Approach: Leveraged native language staff to increase consent and participation rates.
• Strategic Scheduling: Careful planning of weekend and evening hours allowed for comprehensive coverage while avoiding overtime costs.
• Centralized Client Portal: Our Client Portal eliminated paperwork, reduced administrative burden, and delivered results in real-time.
• Customization to Client Needs: Mobile Health’s willingness to tailor our services to the major healthcare organizations specific needs resulted in higher participation and completion rates.