The methods of measuring the dynamics of behaviour of the tuberculous patient, the social consequence of a TB case in the family and neighbourhood or the economic burden of the disease to the nation is still in the embryonic stage. Negative reactions from family and associates could lead to the patient's denial of having TB, thus endangering the patient and the community. Since the NTP came into being, TB patients can expect a correct diagnosis and prompt treatment. As the patient's interest in treatment will decline when suffering is reduced, it is urged that the patient be motivated (preferably, at the start of the treatment regimen) to acquire a compulsive, obsessive, daily habit for drug consumption for at least a year. As the social security measures in the country are meagre, domiciliary treatment rather than institutionalization should be offered to reduce the extent of disruption to the economic and social life of the patient.

Another important area of concern is the measurement of suffering. With the revolutionary changes in the treatment of TB, the prior acute, physical suffering and mental agony of the TB patient has given way to a generalised form of distress. Using behavioural techniques such as group interviews of the patient amidst his/ her family and projective techniques will provide a thorough knowledge of the personality, values, expectations and social interactions of the TB patient. This knowledge could help explain why patients fail to avail diagnostic and treatment services offered to them and, enable the NTP to continue the felt-need oriented approach.