Application of a remoteness index: Funding malaria programs

Per capita funding far the malaria control programs in Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands is high compared to other developing countries. This study aims to explore the usefulness of remoteness index to explain the cost differentials, and the possibility of applying such an index to estimate resource requirements in future. To understand some of the key reasons underlying the significant differences, the per capita costs have been compared to the current funding levels for Lao Peoples Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), adjusted by application of a remoteness and incapacity index (RH). The RTF is a measure of remoteness for a particular geographical area. The index reflects differences in population sizes and distances between residents. The measure of remoteness combines the elements of travel distance, time and cost, and quantifies accessibility/remoteness using the latest available population estimates and Geographical Information System based technology. The ratios of Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands RIIs to Lao PDR RH have been used to deflate estimated per capita costs. The above analysis has provided a better understanding of budget estimates for the implementation of current malaria plans in terms of level of funding by objectives, inputs, and source of funds.