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Published on: February 11, 2014
Methods for measuring personal costs associated with vision impairment.
Shiao-Lan Chou1, Ecosse Lamoureux, Jill Keeffe
1Department of Ophthalmology, Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne & Vision CRC-Sydney, Australia.
Ophthalmic Epidemiology
|December 16, 2006
Summary
Diaries effectively capture personal costs of vision impairment, showing a median annual expenditure of AUD 2,417. This method proved reliable and accurate for assessing vision-related expenses.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Background:
- Vision impairment significantly impacts individuals' quality of life and financial well-being.
- Accurate data on personal costs associated with vision impairment is crucial for resource allocation and support services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of using diaries for collecting personal cost data in individuals with vision impairment.
- To assess the reliability and validity of diary-based cost collection methods.
Main Methods:
- Recruited participants with vision impairment (visual acuity < 6/12 or restricted visual fields).
- Utilized 12-monthly diaries in large print and electronic formats with various accessibility aids.
- Collected expenditure data across four categories and validated with questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Achieved a high completion rate (68%) for 12-month diaries among eligible participants.
- Median annual personal cost for vision impairment was AUD 2,417, with category ranges from AUD 206 to AUD 872.
- Diary data demonstrated consistency across months and validity when compared to questionnaire responses (Spearman; p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Diaries, supported by additional assistance, facilitate high response rates in cost data collection.
- The diary method is an accurate and reliable strategy for determining personal costs associated with vision impairment.
