A cost-effectiveness analysis of alternative tuberculosis control programs in rural Zambia

Chipeta, Kettie

A cost-effectiveness analysis of alternative tuberculosis control programs in rural Zambia

Master Thesis

1999

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Health Economics Unit

Faculty

Faculty of Health Sciences

Abstract

This study reviewed community-based directly observed treatment and the conventional approach to tuberculosis management in order to find cost-effective approach. Both patient and health system cost data were used. Hospital cost data were collected from a mission hospital in rural Zambia for the periods 1989 and 1997. Patient cost data were collected from a sample of 50 patients in terms of time and travel costs. The cure rate was used as the measure of effectiveness. Results showed that community-based DOT is the most cost-effective approach because of its reduced costs to the patients and health system. Finally, it was also found that community-based DOT is the most viable economic option given the existing resource constraints. Suggestions for future study are offered and limitations of research are explored.

Keywords

Health Economics

Reference:

Collections

Masters

Full item page