Background

Tuberculosis reclaimed its position as the deadliest infection in 2024. Thanks to the efforts of our predecessors, tuberculosis is now rarely encountered by frontline healthcare providers in the U.S., especially in the Midwest and rural areas. However, this low incidence can lead to uncertainty and delays in diagnosis, increasing the risk of transmission and poor patient outcomes. Frontline providers play a crucial role in TB diagnosis and treatment, as patients with TB symptoms often seek care from primary care, ER, urgent care, or general hospitalists before seeing specialists. When primary care providers are confident in managing latent TB infection, they contribute significantly to TB elimination efforts.

Goal

We are building a network of frontline clinicians as "TB Champions" to raise awareness, serve as resources, and empower peers to "think TB." The program focuses on recognizing and diagnosing active TB disease and treating latent TB infection in both adults and children. TB Champions will complete training developed by the Mayo Clinic Center for Tuberculosis, a CDC-designated Center of TB Excellence. They will progress through the program as a cohort, completing self-study modules and engaging in virtual meetings for case-based learning. After training, the cohort will stay connected to discuss challenges and share ideas.

Ideal Candidates

No prior TB experience is required; ideal TB champions are eager to learn and committed to TB elimination. Clinicians from primary care, emergency medicine, urgent care, and hospital medicine, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, are encouraged to apply. Other roles may be considered if they align with the program’s goals. 

Application Process

To expand our network and strengthen TB capacity across the country, we will welcome new cohorts 2–3 times per year. Each cohort will be regionally focused, with participants selected based on local needs and priorities. Over time, we aim to build a broad, collaborative network by gradually including more states. Individuals interested in joining are encouraged to apply. Applicants will be notified when a new cohort is forming in their area and provided with details on how to participate.

Apply Here

Learn More

Please email TBcenter@mayo.edu if you are interested or for additional questions.