Abstract
Tuberculosis is a respiratory infectious disease with exceptionally high burden in low-resource countries. In Timor-Leste, a nation with persistent poverty, limited health infrastructures, and a rapidly urbanizing population, the delivery of an effective tuberculosis treatment presents a great challenge. In this context, a rights-based approach through the non-profit sector is critical to administering and monitoring tuberculosis treatment. Using past treatment data, patient surveys, and direct observation, the strengths and weaknesses of a rights-based approach of the Bairo PIte Clinic network were assessed. The program sufficiently implemented the international standards for diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis. It complemented the National Tuberculosis Control Program in diagnosing multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. Adherence to the intensive phase treatment was excellent and patients benefited from a 75% increase in understand of tuberculosis. However, additional programmatic strategies are required in order to ensure successful treatment and complete adherence for all.