Biography

Dr. Debadutta Parija is the Program Director for TB & Infectious Diseases with over two decades of experience in national health programs, TB elimination, diagnostics, and health systems strengthening. She has held prominent leadership roles at the World Health Organization (WHO), Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), and the Government of India. Her expertise spans TB program strategy, diagnostic innovation, and capacity building, including nursing education. Dr. Parija’s work continues to shape impactful policies and programs in TB and infectious disease control at both national and international levels.

Expertise

TB Diagnostics
Public Health

Key Impacts

IVRS-based cough tracking for early TB diagnosis among individuals purchasing cough syrups from local practitioners

The IVRS initiative improved TB case finding with 6% positivity, but a 73% non-response rate calls for better engagement strategies.

Source: Conference 2024