Under the Foundation’s pre-2020 program, the total cost of treating one multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patient was approximately $5,000. This included diagnostic equipment, supplies, medication, transportation, administration, and a portion of delegation visit expenses.

With the introduction of new medications, the duration of treatment for MDR-TB has steadily decreased. In the past, patients took medications for up to two years but much shorter treatment periods are recommended with newer regimens.