Cost effectiveness of a single-function treatment center for cataract surgery

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Abstract
To compare the clinical and cost effectiveness of two models for cataract treatment: a single-function Cataract Treatment Centre (CTC) and a general ophthalmology service. Cataract Treatment Centre and the general ophthalmology service at Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom. Two hundred patients were studied using two models of care: 100 in the CTC and 100 in the general ophthalmology service. Outcome measures were best corrected visual at 3 months postoperatively or at discharge and occurrence of surgery-related complications. All direct costs to the National Health Service were identified, measure, and assessed. Clinical outcomes in the two groups were similar. The average cost per patient was 496.90 pounds ($760.25) at the CTC and 566.34 pounds ($866.50) at the general ophthalmology service. The cost per patient treated as a day case in the general service group was 495.84 pounds ($758.63). Thus, treatment at the CTC was more cost effective than in the mixed service group and as cost effective as in the day case subgroup. Depending on local circumstances, day care must be delivered more cost effectively in a single-function center than in a general ophthalmology service. We recommend day care using local anesthesia and protocols for assessment, surgery, and follow-up.