Does integration of HIV and SRH services achieve economies of scale and scope in practice? A cost function analysis of the Integra Initiative.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Policy-makers have long argued about the potential efficiency gains and cost savings from integrating HIV and sexual reproductive health (SRH) services, particularly in resource-constrained settings with generalised HIV epidemics. However, until now, little empirical evidence exists on whether the hypothesised efficiency gains associated with such integration can be achieved in practice.

Methods

We estimated a quadratic cost function using data obtained from 40 health facilities, over a 2-year-period, in Kenya and Swaziland. The quadratic specification enables us to determine the existence of economies of scale and scope.

Findings

The empirical results reveal that at the current output levels, only HIV counselling and testing services are characterised by se

SUBMITTER: Obure CD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4783329 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature