Cost analysis of eye camps and camp-based cataract surgery.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND. Although cataract accounts for half the blindness in the world, the resources available are not sufficient to meet the existing need for operations. The most effective low cost cataract surgery is probably performed in community camps. METHODS. We estimated the costs incurred in performing cataract operations in makeshift comprehensive eye care camps. Both the capital and recurrent inputs were costed at current market rates. RESULTS. Rupees 1,508,600 (US$ 47,100) was spent on conducting 17 camps during April 1992 to March 1993. Recurrent inputs were responsible for 83% of the total costs. Sixty per cent of the recurrent inputs were borne by non-governmental organizations. The total capital expenditure was borne by the mobile ophthalmic units. Food and drugs for patients (40%), and staff salaries and allowances (35%) were the major recurrent expenditure, while 60% of the capital expenditure was accounted for by vehicles. The unit cost of cataract surgery was Rs 772 (US$ 23). CONCLUSIONS. We suggest that comprehensive eye camps are cost-effective.