Cost of providing the expanded programme on immunization: findings from a facility-based study in Viet Nam, 2005

Presenter: Minh Van Hoang, Hanoi Medical University

Abstract

Objective: This paper reports the results of a study of cost estimates and analyses for providing the programme in a rural community in the North of Viet Nam in 2005.

Methods: An ingredient approach was used to collect cost data from the perspective of the service providers.

Findings: The total annual cost of the expanded programme on immunization (EPI) in Bavi district was US$ 58 460 [purchasing power parity (PPP) 282 076]. Vaccines and supplies were the largest cost category (33%), followed by personnel costs (30.2%). The largest share of the total cost was due to activities at commune level (38%). The average cost per fully vaccinated child (FVC) was US$ 4.81 (PPP 23.21), much lower than the figure of US$ 15 that is generally accepted as the cost-effective threshold for EPI in developing countries.

Conclusion: This empirical study indicates that the EPI has been implemented efficiently in rural Viet Nam, but that opportunities exist to make it even more efficient.