What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by a germ (also known as a bacterium) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually affects the lungs, but can affect any part of the body such as the brain, kidneys, lymph glands and bones.
TB is curable. TB is usually treated with a six month course of antibiotics, which must be completed to discourage recurrence of the disease or drug resistance.
Elements of the service
The main elements of the Countywide Community TB Service are to:
- provide support for patients diagnosed with TB
- contact screening service to assess the potential of transmission of TB
- new entrant screening for individuals identified as "at risk" of TB
- support the investigation and diagnosis processes
- provide a specialist resource for advice
- offer training and raise awareness of the disease
NB: The Countywide Community TB Service does not currently offer: Mantoux Tests, BCG vaccinations, Occupational Health Screening, Screening clinics for at risk groups e.g. homeless.
Countywide Community TB Service Team
The Countywide Community TB Service includes a dedicated tuberculosis nurse specialist who works with consultants in respiratory medicine, infectious diseases and paediatrics (child care). The wider team also includes specialists in microbiology, radiology, pharmacy, general practitioners, health protection and public health.
Contact Details
Lincolnshire Community Health Service NHS Trust
Community TB Services
Unit 7
The Point
Lions Way
Sleaford
NG34 8GG
Email: lhnt.tbteamlincs@nhs.net
Telephone Number: 01522 459 559
TB nurse specialist mobile: 07928 675 244
Referral Criteria
All patients living within the geographical boundaries of Lincolnshire (excluding North Lincolnshire).
Patients can also refer themselves, but need to telephone the service first to ensure there is a need to be seen.
Community Tuberculosis Service referral form.
Countywide Community Tuberculosis (TB) Service Guidance
All local guidance is in line with nationally set standards and is supervised by the Lincolnshire TB Board.
Hours of operation
Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm
Out of Hours
During out of hours, you may contact the following:
- GP
- Out of Hours Service
- NHS111
Links to other websites
TB Alert
NICE Guidance
Immunisation
Date last modified 25/10/2023