Cost of Integrated TB/HIV Services in Zambia
Author Information
Author(s): Terris-Prestholt Fern, Kumaranayake Lilani, Ginwalla Rokaya, Ayles Helen, Kayawe Ignatius, Hillery Mary, Godfrey-Faussett Peter
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the costs associated with providing integrated tuberculosis and HIV services for people living with HIV in Zambia?
Conclusion
Coordinating an integrated package of services for people living with HIV is relatively inexpensive and remains relevant in the current era of ART.
Supporting Evidence
- Annual core ProTEST costs were $84,213 in Chawama and $31,053 in Matero.
- The cost per HBC patient was $149, and per hospice bednight was $24.
- Coordination costs were 4%-5% of total site costs.
- VCT served as the entry point for the ProTEST Initiative, facilitating access to multiple services.
Takeaway
This study shows that it's not too expensive to provide many health services together for people with HIV, which helps them get better care.
Methodology
Cost data were collected from administrative records, observations, and discussions with project staff, using a combination of ingredients-based costing and step-down methodology.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in estimating costs due to reliance on retrospective data and assumptions about resource allocation.
Limitations
Start-up costs were not collected for Chawama, and indirect costs significantly influenced component costs.
Participant Demographics
Participants included people living with HIV in two urban sites in Zambia, Chawama and Matero.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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