Cost Saving Associated with Animal Bite and Rabies Prevention in Tabriz Primary Health Centers

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction and purpose: Rabies imposes significant economic costs on health systems due to its global distribution, high human and veterinary costs, and high mortality. One of the most important requirements in applying cost control approaches is to have information about the cost of services. The purpose of this study is to estimate the cost saved from the prevention of animal bites and rabies associated with it in health centers in Tabriz. Methods: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional and practical study. In the first purpose, the effectiveness of different methods of rabies prevention was evaluated using a systematic review. To accomplish the next goals, based on the data recorded in the relevant portal and the information extracted from the accounting department of Tabriz Health Center, the costs incurred within the health system were calculated. Based on telephone interviews with 255 cases, patients' pockets costs were extracted. In relation to the overhead costs of the cities of the province (except Tabriz), the information of the Mahbob-Ahri et al. study was used. Results: According to the results of systematic review study, the use of intradermal vaccines is more cost effective than intramuscular vaccines. The total number of animal bites was 8608 cases and its prevalence in the province is 0.21%. The total cost of rabies care in province was 87,232,513,983 Rials. The total costs related to Tabriz city were 17,999,840,156 Rials. The per capita cost of animal bites care is 10,133,889 Rials. Conclusion: Lack of legal leverage and enforcement guarantees for the care and control of owner dogs can bring high costs to the health and economic system. Taking precautionary measures and monitoring compliance with health care guidelines in health centers can increase the cost-effectiveness of these measures.