Health system factors influencing TB drug adherence among patients aged 15 to 35 years attending health services at Entebbe regional referral hospital, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Background: The study aimed to assess socio-demographic factors and explore health system-related factors influencing drug adherence among TB patients aged 15 to 35 years attending health services at Entebbe regional referral hospital, Wakiso district. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative design. A sample of 50 participants was determined using Barton’s formula and selected through simple random sampling over a 10-day period, with five respondents recruited daily. Data were collected using pretested semi-structured questionnaires administered by the researcher in both English and Luganda. Data were analyzed manually using tally sheets and Microsoft Excel to generate frequencies and charts. Ethical approval was obtained, informed consent secured, and confidentiality strictly maintained throughout the study. Results: Out of 50 participants, 45 were enrolled, yielding a 90% response rate. The mean age was 30 years, with most respondents aged 31 to 35 years (44.44%), followed by 26 to 30 years (26.67%), 21 to 25 years (17.78%), and 15 to 20 years (11.11%). Regarding health system factors, 55.56% traveled from distant islands of Buvuma and Kalangala, 28.89% from Entebbe and Mpigi districts, and 15.55% lived near the hospital. Missed appointments were reported by 77.78%, attributed to long waiting times, poor communication, rudeness of health workers, and drug stockouts. Among those missing refills, 85.71% used herbal remedies. Only 10 respondents received follow-up calls or counseling, while 35 (77.78%) reported no guidance, follow-up sputum testing, or support on drug adherence. Conclusion: Poor TB drug adherence was associated with socio-economic, social, and health system challenges. Recommendation: Communities should provide social support and encouragement to TB patients throughout their treatment period to improve adherence.