Data analysis

Abstract

Immunization program costs are generally derived from a detailed analysis of inputs, multiplied by unit prices, and adjusted for whether inputs are shared with other health services. This chapter presents a range of methods for generating robust estimates of immunization costs. Approaches for annualizing and discounting of the value of inputs that have a useful life longer than a year are also discussed in the chapter. Many costing studies collect information from a sample of sites, and approaches for aggregating costs to the national level are explored in this chapter. Techniques for weighting of sample site information is also discussed. As cost estimates are based on assumptions, the chapter concludes with a discussion of approaches for evaluating uncertainty and sensitivity analysis.