The Regional Training and Medical Consultation Centers (RTMCCs) have been asked to assist CDC and the Tuberculosis Epidemiologic Studies Consortium (TBESC) in disseminating information about ongoing TB research activities. This current issue of Close Contact presents an overview of both TBESC and the work of one of the sub-committees, Translating Research into Practice (TRiP).

In September 2001, the Division of Tuberculosis Elimination (DTBE) established the TBESC to strengthen, focus and coordinate tuberculosis (TB) research and help the United States achieve the goal of TB elimination.

In upcoming months, Close Contact will periodically highlight TBESC research projects, those completed, as well as those in progress. Read more...

Translating Research into Practice (TRiP) is a work group of the TBESC. TRiP was formed in 2005 to help translate promising TBESC research into best practices models, and to disseminate those findings to TB control programs throughout the country for use at the "front line" of TB control programs.

"With limited resources available for TB control and prevention, it is essential that TBESC research studies most relevant to enhancing TB elimination be prioritized. In addition, important findings should be widely disseminated in a user-friendly format to facilitate improved public health practice and patient care. TRiP members remain committed to these goals and will continue to work diligently to bridge the gap between TBESC research and front-line TB control practice."

Under the direction of co-chairs Drs. Connie Haley and Jessie Wing, the initial task was to establish procedures for the review and evaluation of completed research projects, and establish relationships with critical partners such as RTMCCs, as well as established national organizations, such as the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association (NTCA) and the Advisory Council for the Elimination of Tuberculosis (ACET). Read more...