Authors : A. Kahwa , G.S. Mfinanga , G.D. Kimaro , B. Mutayoba , E. Ngadaya , G. Mbogo , J.W. Ogondiek , A.M. Mdemu , V.R. Nyigo , L. Lema , S. Kivuyo and G. Mubyazi
Abstract: Previous studies have shown that the cost of HIV/AIDS on the health care sector will exert impacts on other sectors, thus a big challenge to the country`s health system. To determine source of fund and the cost associated with laboratory test of HIV related infections in Tanzania. The cost analysis was limited to seven out of the 26 regions of the United Republic of Tanzania. In each region, the costing process was undertaken at different levels of health facilities in order to cater for any variations in the types and cost of the laboratory services delivered at each level. The total number of 53926 people took HIV related tests which is equivalent of about 6114 people in every laboratory per a year. The financial cost of HIV related test services of the capita assets is estimated at USD 58,000 while annual economic cost on HIV related test services is estimated at USD 9.4 M. It was also found that USD 16,900 was spent on training overall total of 88 staff. The total cost of laboratory supplies and consumables used for testing was USD 550,300 of which USD 504,000 were used on HIV related tests. Recurrent/variable cost claimed 95% of the total cost of delivering HIV test related services of which about 85% was spent on laboratory supplies and consumables while capital cost was only 5%. The findings show that in order to scale up HIV test services putting enough money for lab supplies and consumables is important. The main source of funding for buildings and staff time is the Government because HIV test services take place within the existing structure of health facility in Tanzania while lab equipment, lab supplies and lab consumables are funded mainly by non government agencies.
A. Kahwa , G.S. Mfinanga , G.D. Kimaro , B. Mutayoba , E. Ngadaya , G. Mbogo , J.W. Ogondiek , A.M. Mdemu , V.R. Nyigo , L. Lema , S. Kivuyo and G. Mubyazi , 2008. Exploring the Costs of Laboratory Testing for HIV and Major Sources of Funding for Tanzania . Research Journal of Medical Sciences, 2: 33-37.