Cost of managing drug-susceptible tuberculosis: the case of the diagnostic and treatment health center at Makala General Referral Hospital in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

Background Tuberculosis, the second deadliest infectious disease in the world after COVID-19, is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium most commonly affects the lungs. Economic and financial barriers can hinder access to healthcare services for the diagnosis and management of this disease. The objective of this study was to determine the cost of managing drug-sensitive tuberculosis in the Selembao Health Zone, specifically at the Diagnostic and Treatment Center (CSDT) of Makala General Referral Hospital. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February 24 to March 17, 2024, involving 122 tuberculosis patients who were diagnosed, treated, and declared cured at the tuberculosis screening and treatment center (CSDT) Makala, in the Selembao Health Zone. A simple random probability sampling method was used. Descriptive analyses were performed to determine the costs (direct, indirect, and total) associated with tuberculosis management. Results The direct cost of managing drug-sensitive tuberculosis per patient in our study area (Selembao) ranged from 139,150 to 787,150 CDF (50.6 to 286.2 USD), with a median of 214,150 CDF (77.9 USD), based on the exchange rate of 2,750 CDF for 1 USD during the study period. The indirect cost per patient was estimated at 6,000 to 7,860,000 CDF (2.2 to 2,858.2 USD), with a median of 796,000 CDF (289.5 USD). The total cost of care ranged from 172,150 to 8,040,000 CDF (62.6 to 2,923.6 USD), with a median of 1,026,650 CDF (373.3 USD). The share of the DRC government in supporting the management of this disease was estimated at 12.1% of the total cost. Conclusions The management of drug-sensitive tuberculosis remains a significant financial burden not only for patients but also for their families and households. We therefore recommend substantial government support to enhance the coverage of this condition.