Exploring community tuberculosis program in the pastoralist setting of Ethiopia: a qualitative study of community health workers’ perspectives in Borena Zone, Oromia Region

Abstract Background Pastoralist community accounts for a significant portion of the population in Ethiopia. This is different from majority country’s population. Access to TB prevention and control services uneven country. The program designed improve access. Exploring performance perspectives its implemters pastoral setting remains important. Method We conducted qualitative study using an interpretive description method pastoralist Study participants were recruited geographically dispersed areas. collected data through in-depth interview semi-structured guides audio recordings during February 01–30, 2020. developed consultation with experts clinicians treating patients area. Notes taken at interviews enrich transcription data. Principal investigator interview. subsequent informed by emerging ideas forgoing transcriptions continued until saturation was achieved. Results One hundred fifty six codes, nine categories three themes emanated. first theme inadequate some codes include presumptive case identification compromised directly observed treatment short course service delivery. second factors contributing performance. Community factors, lack physical access health facilities indirect non-medical cost under this theme. final suggested solutions; need active involvement modification delivery approaches. Conclusions community. Multifaceted contributed Socioeconomic related major contributers. Aligning context required