张文宏：像结核病这样的法定传染病，不能让病人因费用而放弃治疗

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the urgent need for improved management and treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) in China, emphasizing the high costs and significant patient burden associated with treatment, as well as the necessity for enhanced healthcare policies and collaboration among medical, insurance, and pharmaceutical sectors [3][4][5]. Group 1: Current Situation of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis - Approximately 28,000 new patients are diagnosed annually with drug-resistant tuberculosis in China, with treatment costs ranging from 160,000 to 200,000 yuan, leading to a patient out-of-pocket expense of nearly 100,000 yuan after insurance reimbursement [3][4]. - China is projected to enter the category of countries with low tuberculosis prevalence by 2024, yet it still accounts for 7.1% of the global new cases of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges in Treatment - The treatment regimen for drug-resistant tuberculosis is lengthy, lasting 18 to 24 months, and often has a low success rate of 50% to 75%, exacerbated by high costs and complex medication protocols [5][6]. - The high prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis is particularly concerning in regions with limited healthcare resources, where elderly patients with comorbidities are increasingly common, further complicating treatment adherence [5][6]. Group 3: Proposed Solutions - A proposed solution includes the implementation of low-cost, locally developed treatment options, as demonstrated by the Trust program in Guizhou, which has improved treatment adherence among patients [5][6]. - Recommendations for improving patient care include integrating drug-resistant tuberculosis into special disease management programs, adjusting payment standards based on disease type, and enhancing the accessibility of essential medications through insurance reforms [7][8]. Group 4: Legislative and Policy Framework - The recent revision of the Infectious Disease Prevention Law elevates tuberculosis prevention efforts to a national legal framework, indicating a shift towards more comprehensive and enforceable regulations [8]. - Experts advocate for increased financial investment and the establishment of special funds to support drug-resistant tuberculosis treatment, aiming for a model where patients face zero out-of-pocket costs for necessary medications [8].