Abstract
Purpose :
Red reflex test is an useful universal screening tool to detect anterior ocular abnormalities; however, it has limitations in detecting posterior ones. We performed a direct cost analysis of incorporating universal digital imaging from the public health system of Rio de Janeiro perspective.
Methods :
A micro-costing approach was applied to estimate direct cost of screening neonatal visual impairment causes with digital imaging retinography (RetCam® Portable). Direct costs included: i.staff (two nursing technician for image capture and one ophthalmologist for image interpretation); ii.material and medications (lid speculum, topical medications, oral glucose); iii. the equipment cost and its maintance.The time horizon was one year, and no discount or inflation rate were applied. Cost were annualized when necessary. Epidemiological and geographic data were used to support the estimation. Official data from 2017 anual live births in Rio de Janeiro was used to measure equipment prices and salary. Costs are presented in United states currency (US$) 2018.
Results :
The total cost for eye screening with digital imaging incorporation into governmental health system would be of USD 2.042.896,10 (USD 37,50 per newborn). Staff costs (two nurses and one ophthalmologist) represent 33% of total cost while equipment and maintence 60%.
Conclusions :
Our preliminary results seem to indicate that digital imaging universal screening of neonatal causes of childhood visual impairment at Rio de Janeiro governmental sector might be feasible. Further economic studies (e.g. cost-effectiveness and budget impact analysis) will be necessary to disclose the overall social and economic impact for this new technology incorporation.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.