SERVICE VOLUME AND OTHER FACTORS AFFECTING THE COSTS OF IMMUNIZATIONS IN THE GAMBIA

  • 1 January 1984
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 62  (5) , 729-736
Abstract
The total cost of the [WHO] Expanded Program on Immunization and of its various components in the Gambia over a period of 1 yr (from July 1980 to June 1981) was investigated, and the costs per immunization dose and per fully immunized child were calculated. The total costs were to a large extent (45%) due to the cost of personnel and fixed costs. Where there was efficient delivery of immunization, the average cost per dose was about 1/5th of that in the most costly facilities. The lower costs were related to more intensive use of the facilities. The national average cost was $1.09. The implications of the results of this study for policies to reduce costs are discussed, and further areas of research are suggested that will provide improved information to guide decision-makers in the use of scarce immunization program resources for better health in the world.