Terbit pada 20 Maret 2024, edisi ketiga panduan ini memperkenalkan penggunaan targeted Next Generation Sequencing (tNGS) untuk pengujian suseptibilitas obat (drug susceptibility). Hal ini merupakan pembaharuan dari versi sebelumnya yang terbit pada 2021. Metode ini menawarkan cara yang lebih efisien untuk mendeteksi resistensi terhadap obat TB langsung dari sampel pasien. Panduan baru ini merupakan upaya global WHO serta mitra-mitranya untuk meningkatkan kualitas diagnosis TB demi mengeliminasi tuberkulosis pada tahun 2030.
Associate Professor Timothy Walker dan Dr. Phan Trieu Phu dari Tim TB (OUCRU Ho Chi Minh) bergabung dengan Tim Peninjau Sistematis bagi penyusunan panduan ini. Keterlibatan mereka mencerminkan upaya berkelanjutan OUCRU untuk memberikan sumbangsih bagi kesehatan global melalui penelitian.
Panduan ini dirancang untuk membantu para tenaga kesehatan menerapkan rekomendasi-rekomendasi WHO secara praktis saat menangani TB. Panduannya mencakupi petunjuk tentang pengenalan dan perluasan penggunaan tes diagnostik baru, pembaharuan algoritma diagnostik, dan pengganggaran.
Edisi terbaru ini menekankan pergeseran menuju tNGS dari metode pengujian tradisional yang berbasis kultur. Perubahan ini diharapkan dapat mempercepat identifikasi TB resisten obat agar orang-orang yang terinfeksi bisa diobati lebih cepat.
Kolaborasi OUCRU dengan WHO ini mencerminkan dedikasi organisasi dalam mendukung penelitian penyakit menular yang memiliki manfaat praktis. Ini adalah contoh bagaimana riset OUCRU bisa berdampak pada kebijakan dan praktik kesehatan di luar dari lokasi kerjanya.
Released on March 20, 2024, this third edition of the handbook introduces the use of targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) for drug susceptibility testing, an update from the previous version published in 2021. This method offers a more efficient way to detect resistance to TB medications directly from patient samples. The new handbook represents a global effort by WHO and its partners to enhance the quality of TB diagnosis, contributing to the goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2030.Â
Associate Professor Timothy Walker and Dr Phan Trieu Phu from TB Group (OUCRU Ho Chi Minh) were part of the systematic review team that contributed to the development of this handbook. Their involvement reflects OUCRU’s ongoing efforts to contribute to global health improvements through research.
The handbook is designed to support the practical application of WHO’s recommendations by healthcare professionals managing TB. It includes guidance on the introduction and scale-up of new diagnostic tests, updated diagnostic algorithms, and budgetary considerations.
This latest edition emphasizes the shift towards using tNGS over traditional, culture-based testing methods. This change is expected to speed up the identification of drug-resistant TB, facilitating more timely treatments for those affected.
OUCRU’s collaboration with WHO on this project illustrates its dedication to supporting infectious disease research with practical applications. It is an example of how OUCRU’s work can have impact on health policy and practice far beyond the immediate region.Â
Dr Huong‘s leadership journey began in 2018 when she established the AMS team at OUCRU Ha Noi. With a PhD in public health from the University of Oxford and a passion for improving patient outcomes, she set out to build a team that would tackle the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.Â
“I was determined to create a team that was not only skilled in research but also passionate about making a difference,” says Dr. Huong. “I wanted to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.”
Her ascent from a dedicated scholar to a leading expert in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a journey of personal growth and strategic leadership. “At first, I was overwhelmed,” she admits, recalling the shift from academia to leading a complex research programme. Yet, through challenge and change, she has emerged as a driving force in the global effort to safeguard the future of antibiotic treatment.Â
Photos: Dr Huong sharing her work in antimicrobial stewardship at international conferences
Through her participation in the Make a Difference programme, Dr Huong gained valuable leadership skills in coaching, emotional management, and effective communication. She applied these skills to her team, creating a supportive and empowering work environment.Â
“The programme helped me develop the confidence and abilities to lead my team effectively,” says Dr Huong. “I learned how to increase my credibility, motivate my staff, and create a cohesive and productive work environment.”Â
Dr Huong shares her experience participating in the Make A Difference Programme
However, the most memorable thing she gained during the Make a Difference Programme wasn’t the leadership skills, but the connections she made along the way. She recalled a workshop when she had incubated dengue fever. Despite her illness, Dr Huong continued to participate in the workshop, determined to make the most of the opportunity.
“I was touched that everyone [from OUCRU] called to check on me,†she said. This experience taught Dr Huong the importance of self-care and work-life balance. She realised that in order to be an effective leader, she needed to prioritise her own well-being. By taking care of herself, she could better serve her team and the cause she was fighting for.Â
Under Dr Huong’s leadership, the AMS team has made significant contributions to the fight against antimicrobial resistance. They have developed and implemented effective interventions to reduce antibiotic use and prevent the spread of resistant bacteria in healthcare settings. Â
Dr Huong’s team at a recent National AMS Workshop hosted by OUCRU Ha Noi and partners
Dr Vu Thi Lan Huong’s story is one of inspiration and impact. Her work and leadership at OUCRU are not just about the present; they’re about making hospitals safer and ensuring a healthy future. As she continues to lead, innovate, and inspire, the ripple effects of her dedication to public health and antimicrobial stewardship will be felt for years to come.
Khóa Ä‘Ã o tạo nà y nhằm mục Ä‘Ãch nâng cao năng lá»±c và chất lượng chăm sóc tÃch cá»±c cho các bệnh truyá»n nhiá»…m gây nguy hiểm đến tÃnh mạng tại Việt Nam. ChÆ°Æ¡ng trình nà y được tà i trợ bởi Dragon Capital và là má»™t phần trong sá»± hợp tác lâu dà i giữa OUCRU vá»›i Bệnh viện Guy’s and St Thomas’, bắt đầu từ năm 2014.
This training aims to enhance the capacity and quality of intensive care for life-threatening infectious diseases in Vietnam. The program is funded by Dragon Capital Group and is part of a long-standing collaboration between OUCRU and Guy’s and St Thomas’, which has been ongoing since 2014. Â
Over 100 intensive care doctors from various hospitals and medical universities participated in the ICU training, which covered a wide range of topics, including updates on steroids, safer intubation in the intensive care units (ICU), management of atrial fibrillation, and acute kidney injury.
Guy’s and St Thomas’ doctors also visited the wards at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases (Hanoi), the Hospital for Tropical Diseases and the District 11 Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City) to provide participants with practical experience in critical care medicine. Additionally, it was an opportunity for the Guy’s and St Thomas’ team to share their expertise with a wider group of healthcare professionals and to assess the needs of the hospitals.Â
Photos: Guy’s and St Thomas’ doctors visiting ICUs at HTD, NHTD, and District 11 Hospital to provide participants with practical experience in critical care medicine.
This comprehensive training approach ensures that both medical and nursing staff in Vietnam are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in critical care medicine. This training was a significant step towards improving the quality of critical care in Vietnam and ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.Â
“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues from Guy’s and St Thomas’,” said Professor Guy Thwaites, Director of OUCRU. “Their expertise in critical care medicine will significantly contribute to improving the care of critically ill patients in Vietnam.”Â
Guy’s and St. Thomas’ doctors, OUCRU team, and the team at District 11 Hospital
The training was generously funded by Dragon Capital Group, a financial institution focused on Vietnam and other Southeast Asian emerging markets. Dragon Capital has been a long-standing supporter of OUCRU’s mission to improve healthcare in Vietnam.
OUCRU and Guy’s and St Thomas’ remain committed to working together to improve critical care in Vietnam. Future plans include additional training programs, research collaborations, and the establishment of formal links between Vietnamese and UK ICU societies.
Joining OUCRU in December 2021, Andy brought with him a wealth of experience in information technology and a ten-year track record as an emergency responder for natural disasters. His background in crisis management and leadership has been pivotal in steering his team through the demanding pace and pressures of clinical trials. Â
Make A Difference
The crux of Andy’s leadership philosophy was significantly influenced by his participation in the Make A Difference (MAD) Programme. Unlike other leadership development courses, the MAD Programme offered a personal touch, emphasising self-awareness and the practical application of knowledge in day-to-day challenges. It’s here that Andy honed his ability to turn introspection into action, tapping into his strengths and amending his weaknesses. Â
“In my previous role in disaster management, I have seen people work like Superman – quick, decisive, and unerring, with no room to show weakness during a crisis. Commanding was the rule. Now, I’ve realised that this leadership style isn’t entirely fit for my current role. Today, it’s about being present, supportive, and having those challenging, necessary discussions with the team.” Â
Photos: Andy in his previous role in disaster response
Through the lens of the MAD Programme, Andy recognised the importance of an affiliative leadership style, one that values personal connections over hierarchical positions. He learned to navigate the delicate balance of being a supportive leader while also making tough decisions, such as resolving conflict in his team while staying objective. However, it was this very act of stepping out of his comfort zone that underscored Andy’s commitment to fairness and accountability within his team. Â
Overcoming Self-Doubt
Andy’s leadership journey has not been without self-doubt. Despite his extensive experience managing and working in disaster response teams, he admits that the MAD Programme challenged his self-perception as an effective leader. The one-on-one coaching sessions with Make A Difference Coach Rob Hale also helped him address a personal challenge that many high-achievers face: the inability to recognise and appreciate their own success.
“I confided in Rob about my relentless self-pressure and failure to acknowledge my achievements, always seeing them as inadequate. Rob advised me to value our successes and not be too hard on myself, to recognise and reward my efforts rather than constantly viewing them negatively. This was a recurring theme in our discussions, as my drive to do more often overshadowed the accomplishments I had already made.â€Â Â
Andy shares his experiences with the Make A Difference Programme
Spearheading innovations
By embracing vulnerability and showing his own, Andy realised that it did not diminish his authority but rather made him more relatable and accessible to his team. Under his leadership, the small but capable team at OUCRU Indonesia has not only met its targets but has also spearheaded innovative solutions.
A defining success was the creation of an independent database system, which not only complies with local regulations but also empowers OUCRU Indonesia to manage its studies directly, enhancing efficiency and control. Andy’s pride in his team is evident as he reflects on this achievement: “We built this from scratch,” a nod to the team’s ingenuity and hard work.
As Andy continues to lead his team at OUCRU, he carries the insights from the MAD Programme with him. His most memorable lesson—the recognition of his own vulnerabilities—has become a cornerstone of his management style, allowing him to connect with his team on a deeper level and drive them toward shared success.
In a field where Supermen are often valorised, Andy’s willingness to share his vulnerabilities stands out as an example of authentic leadership. It’s a reminder that in the realm of data and crises, the human element remains the most complex, challenging, and ultimately rewarding variable to manage.Â
Ini merupakan kali keempat RS Penyakit Tropis (RSPT) menerima penghargaan prestisius yang sama, bukti komitmen RSPT selama 30 terakhir dalam menekan tingkat kematian tetanus di faskes-faskes yang beroperasi di wilayah tersebut. Prestasi ini juga menunjukkan keberhasilan kemitraan strategis antara OUCRU dan RSPT yang telah berlangsung selama lebih dari 30 tahun.
Di RSPT, penelitian OUCRU berfokus pada pengembangan metode perawatan baru, penggunaan teknologi inovatif, dan penerapan uji klinis untuk menilai efektivitas protokol perawatan. Selain itu, OUCRU juga mendukung pelatihan nakes dengan cara mengadakan kursus dan seminar dan memberikan kesempatan bagi dokter dan perawat untuk melakukan penelitian. Upaya ini meningkatkan kemampuan profesional dan keterampilan penting yang diperlukan untuk mengelola kasus tetanus dan penyakit menular lainnya.
Foto: Penghargaan Prestasi Medis 2023 diberikan kepada RSPT oleh Dinas Kesehatan Kota Ho Chi Minh, mengakui upaya luar biasa RS dan keberhasilannya dalam menekan tingkat kematian tetanus.
30 Tahun Memerangi Tetanus
Selama tiga dekade terakhir, dari 1993 hingga 2023, RSPT mengalami penurunan signifikan dalam jumlah kasus tetanus serta tingkat kematiannya, dari hampir 25% menjadi 10%. Penelitian dan penguatan praktik medis selama lebih dari tiga dekade telah menghasilkan perubahan signifikan dalam demografi pasien tetanus. Ada perubahan yang mencolok dalam usia rata-rata orang yang terjangkit tetanus dan rasio pasien laki-laki dan perempuan dalam usia reproduktif. Perubahan demografi ini membuktikan keberhasilan program vaksinasi bagi ibu hamil yang memberikan kekebalan dari tetanus baik pada ibu maupun bayinya yang baru lahir.
Keberhasilan ini merupakan hasil investasi besar dalam peningkatan infrastruktur RS, terutama peningkatan jumlah ventilator dari dua menjadi sepuluh. Selain itu, terdapat peningkatan kualitas perawatan dan layanan kesehatan yang disediakan RSPT. Penghargaan ini mengakui pencapaian selama 30 tahun terakhir dan juga memotivasi, baik RSPT maupun OUCRU, untuk melanjutkan komitmen mereka dalam memperkuat pendekatan perawatan, perawatan pasien, dan integrasi metode-metode terkini dalam penelitian dan manajemen klinis tetanus.
Penghargaan ini menandai pencapaian penting, mengakui RSPT dan OUCRU sebagai institusi kesehatan yang reputasinya baik dan berkualitas tinggi di Vietnam dan secara global.
Kontribusi Dokter Lam Minh Yen
Kontribusi paling utama terhadap upaya ini adalah kontribusi Dokter Lam Minh Yen, Dokter Peneliti Senior di OUCRU sekaligus mantan Wakil Direktur RSPT. Memanfaatkan pengalaman dan keahliannya, Dr. Yen dan timnya telah mencapai peningkatan yang signifikan baik dalam pengobatan maupun pencegahan tetanus.
Dokter Lam Minh Yen, terkenal atas keahliannya dalam penyakit infeksius, telah berkontribusi besar dalam meningkatkan hasil pengobatan pasien, membimbing generasi nakes di bawahnya, dan memimpin inisiatif dalam memerangi berbagai epidemi seperti Ebola, Zika, dan yang paling baru, COVID-19.
Di RSPT, dr. Yen telah mengembangkan dan memimpin pelatihan perawatan darurat, baik tingkat dasar maupun lanjutan, untuk para nakes, memastikan bahwa Unit Perawatan Intensif terbekali dengan baik dan terlibat dalam penelitian untuk menemukan pengobatan tetanus baru. Keahliannya juga tercermin dalam perannya sebagai salah satu penulis bab “Tetanus” dalam buku teks medis yang diakui secara global, termasuk “Manson’s Tropical Diseases: Textbook for Critical Care” dan “Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine” yang merupakan bahan bacaan utama di sekolah kedokteran di seluruh dunia.
Dokter Lam Minh Yen, Dokter Studi Senior OUCRU, memimpin lokakarya bagi orang-orang dewasa yang berada dalam tahap penyembuhan tetanus.
Berkat dedikasinya yang tak kenal lelah, dr. Yen dianugerahi gelar “Dokter Luar Biasa” oleh Presiden Vietnam Truong Tan Sang pada tahun 2012. Pada tahun 2016, ia diakui sebagai Duta Alumni Australia, salah satu dari 12 orang yang dipilih oleh Pemerintah Australia dari seluruh jaringan global yang beranggotakan lebih dari 2,5 juta alumni. Di OUCRU, dr. Yen saat ini sedang melakukan penelitian tentang Hepatitis C, tetanus, dan penyakit menular lainnya, dan telah menerbitkan temuannya dalam jurnal kedokteran internasional.
