Related Experiment Videos
Evaluation of an otitis media with effusion screening pilot programme
P Crampton1, K Nelson, D Bandaranayake
1Health Services Research Centre, Wellington.
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|October 11, 1996
Summary
This pilot program successfully screened children for otitis media with effusion (OME) in a low-income community. Further research is needed to determine the long-term benefits of OME screening.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Audiology
Background:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common childhood condition.
- Screening programs aim to identify OME early for timely intervention.
- Evaluating screening in diverse socioeconomic groups is crucial for equitable healthcare access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and operational aspects of a pilot otitis media with effusion (OME) screening program.
- To evaluate the program's effectiveness in a low socioeconomic status (SES) population.
- To analyze the costs associated with the OME screening process.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was employed, including literature review and key informant interviews.
- Standard screening criteria were used for program evaluation.
- Operational analysis encompassed inputs, outputs, and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- 91.2% of the target low-SES population was screened, involving 731 children.
- Bilateral OME was detected in 49.7% of children, with 25.3% referred to otorhinolaryngology (ORL).
- Costs per child screened, per bilateral OME case, and per referral were $46.10, $92.85, and $117.03, respectively.
Conclusions:
- The pilot demonstrated successful OME screening in a low-SES population.
- High spontaneous resolution rates of OME necessitate careful protocol design.
- Screening impacts secondary services and may offer additional benefits through increased child-parent contact.
- Long-term outcomes and resource needs for tympanometry screening require further investigation.