In 2005 there were 31 cases of tuberculosis in Jefferson County for a case rate of 4.4 per 100,000 population. It is the responsibility of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness to make sure that each person diagnosed with tuberculosis takes the appropriate medicines, as long as necessary, to prevent the spread of the disease to the general population.
To achieve this, Department of Health and Wellness nurses may go to the homes of those infected with tuberculosis to directly observe that medications are, in fact, being taken. Identification and examination of tuberculosis case contacts is also done, to ensure that there are no other probable cases due to exposure to the infected person.
Our Tuberculosis Clinic provides diagnostic and treatment services for Jefferson, Bullitt, Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer and Trimble counties. Our services include:
- Screening for exposure (Mantoux/PPD testing);
- Taking and interpreting x-rays;
- Obtaining sputum and other specimens for laboratory analysis;
- Providing prescription and other drugs for treatment;
- Monitoring patient reaction to toxic prescription drugs;
- Monitoring adherence to treatment or therapy regime;
- Providing social services to ensure completion of treatment or therapy;
- Providing Directly Observed Therapy and related services for persons with TB necessitating 6 to 9 months of multiple office, home and/or worksite visits;
- Providing consultation on diagnosis and treatment to physicians, nursing homes, social service agencies, hospitals, and others.
TB Clinic location: 400 East Gray Street, inside the main headquarters for the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness
Phone 574-6617.
Hours of Operation:
Please call ahead to schedule your appointment.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Patients are seen by appointment only for chest x-rays, physician visits and referrals, and TB Skin Testing. Call 574-6617 to make an appointment.