DR. MEERA LAKSHMI VENKATESH PRAJNA

Dr. ASHWIN BALASUBRAMANIAN

Abstract

Purpose:

To estimate the hitherto unreported direct and indirect costs, and the health seeking behavior of patients with open globe trauma in the Indian context.

Methods:

Prospective observational study conducted from March to September 2019. Details of the patient’s demographic profile, health seeking behavior following the trauma, the total cost including that of travel, food, accommodation and loss of wages of both the attender and the patient were collected

Results:

85 patients were recruited. 65(76.4%) patients visited other hospitals previously. The mean distance travelled was 113.6 km. Majority of patients (68.8%) were breadwinners. The mean total cost incurred was Rs 17071.9, with 76% patients having a monthly income of less than Rs 15000

Conclusion:

Total cost was more than the average monthly income of this group. Considering the magnitude of the cost incurred and the potential ocular morbidity even after treatment, preventive strategies should be strongly advocated