Cost analysis of the development and implementation of a spatial decision support system for malaria elimination in Solomon Islands

Abstract

Background: The goal of malaria elimination faces numerous challenges. New tools are required to support th scale up of interventions and improve national malaria programme capacity to conduct detailed surveillance. Thi study investigates the cost factors influencing the development and implementation of a spatial decision suppor system (SDSS) for malaria elimination in the two elimination provinces of Isabel and Temotu, Solomon Islands Method: Financial and economic costs to develop and implement a SDSS were estimated using the Solomon Island programme's financial records. Using an ingredients approach, verified by stakeholders and operational reports, tota costs for each province were quantified. A budget impact sensitivity analysis was conducted to investigate th influence of variations in standard budgetary components on the costs and to identify potential cost savings Results: A total investment of US 96,046 (2012 constant dollars) was required to develop and implement the SDSS i two provinces (Temotu Province US 49,806 and Isabel Province US 46,240). The single largest expense category wa for computerized equipment totalling approximately US 30,085. Geographical reconnaissance was the most expensiv phase of development and implementation, accounting for approximately 62% of total costs. Sensitivity analysi identified different cost factors between the provinces. Reduced equipment costs would deliver a budget saving o approximately 10% in Isabel Province. Combined travel costs represented the greatest influence on the total budget i the more remote Temotu Province Conclusion: This study provides the first cost analysis of an operational surveillance tool used specifically for malari elimination in the South-West Pacific. It is demonstrated that the costs of such a decision support system are driven b specialized equipment and travel expenses. Such factors should be closely scrutinized in future programme budgets t ensure maximum efficiencies are gained and available resources are allocated effectively.