Background Loss to follow-up of presumptive TB patients is a major challenge towards the realization of the End-TB strategy. SMS reminders and mobile money (MM) incentives have shown promise by improving health outcomes. However, there is limited knowledge on whether these interventions can increase linkage to care/treatment for presumptive TB patients in Uganda. We explored views about using SMS reminders and MM incentives in improving linkage to care of presumptive TB patients.

Methods A qualitative study was conducted, involving; 20 key informants with health workers (HCW), 25 in-depths interviews with presumptive TB patients and 8 focus group discussions with TB patients. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data was analyzed using Atlas.ti V12.0.

Results Almost all respondents viewed SMS as not a good communication channel to remind presumptive TB patients to complete diagnosis. They expressed concerns that the SMS reminders could lead to unintended disclosure of one’s TB status if they were accessed by another person. Also mentioned the existing fatigue with SMS from telecom companies hence most likely to ignore/delete any messages coming in without reading, lack of real-time interactive communication and not useful for patients who can’t read. Phone calls were preferred to SMS because they are private, foster a two-way communication in real-time and felt that a phone call is personal and makes them feel that the HCW cares about them. There were divergent views on MM incentives, majority disagreed to MM sent before the patient comes to the health facility as it may tempt the patient to divert it rather than the intended use.

Conclusion The findings from this study showed limited preference of the SMS reminders. As we embrace mHealth, the human interaction between patient and HCW needs to be maintained. MM sent to the patient prior to the clinic visit, might be diverted.