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World Journal of Surgery
Published in: World Journal of Surgery 5/2011

Open Access 01-05-2011

Comparing the Cost-Effectiveness of Short Orthopedic Missions in Elective and Relief Situations in Developing Countries

Authors: Richard A. Gosselin, Gus Gialamas, Dave M. Atkin

Published in: World Journal of Surgery | Issue 5/2011

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Abstract

Background

The earthquake that occurred in Haiti on 12 January 2010 elicited an unprecedented response from the American orthopedic community. Many small organizations, such as Operation Rainbow, were thrust into the unfamiliar environment of relief surgery, whereas they normally provide short elective reconstruction missions in developing countries.

Materials

Because of the chaotic nature of relief work, it was assumed that the organization’s efforts would be less cost-effective than their usual elective work. To evaluate this conclusion, the present study was designed to compare the cost-effectiveness of the organization’s usual elective missions with the emergency relief provided in the wake of the Haiti earthquake.

Results and conclusions

The assumption that emergency costs would be higher was proven wrong, with estimates of $362 per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) averted in the elective group, and $343 per DALY averted in the relief group.
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Metadata
Title
Comparing the Cost-Effectiveness of Short Orthopedic Missions in Elective and Relief Situations in Developing Countries
Authors
Richard A. Gosselin
Gus Gialamas
Dave M. Atkin
Publication date
01-05-2011
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
World Journal of Surgery / Issue 5/2011
Print ISSN: 0364-2313
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2323
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-010-0947-9

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