Arvind Eye care system: Case Analysis

1. What should be the objectives of Arvind eye care system? And what implications the objectives have for rural markets?
Ans-> Objectives for Arvind eye care system should be as follows: To determine the most efficient and optimal methods of supporting patient care delivery which can be achieved through improving quality and efficiency of the available resources. To focus on managing patient flow - the movement of patients through a set of locations in a health care facility Aim to develop Decision support systems for effective capacity planning in a hospital environment To describe efficiently the purposes, activities and challenges to consider when designing an outreach programme for eye care

Implication of objectives for rural market Creating an awareness of the product and service such that the Bottom of Pyramid(BOP)consumers and producers know what is available and on offer, and how to use it; Creating greater access in rural market Building trust and a loyal base at the BOP, we have to ensure an uninterrupted supply of products and services. It would help to convert unorganized and fragmented rural market to an organized, private sector market

2. Examine the reasons for poor acceptance of eye care services by rural consumers.
Ans Reasons for poor acceptance of eye care services by rural consumers are as follows: lack of awareness among the rural population that many cases of blindness are curable. Fear of surgery and cost Transportation issues to eye care centers

3. Evaluate the options available to improve the acceptance. Ans

Base hospitals
Base hospitals based in semi urban areas were low in number. Secondary level base hospitals should have been established to make a better reach and earn greater trust of rural population.

Community center Clinics

Repeat visit Outpatients number remained constant which shows greater level of trust enjoyed by this option. Paying Inpatients showing increased number which is contributing in making this option sustainable.

Vision Centers
It is most economical option for eye care patients. Its operation is economically viable as it has shown surplus in annual net income across all centers.

Eye Screening camps

Its most useful option in generating demand, mobilizing the resources and building Aravinds image in community. 67% free cataract surgery in 2009/10 shows greater level of acceptability in this option.

Mobile Unit
The daily running cost of 40005000 INR and with a capacity of 75 patient to serve in a day , makes this option a sustainable one to outreach remote patients.

4. Recommend methods to improve the acceptance. Ans To design and implement case finding strategies that reflect priorities and that take into account the barriers Case finding services at community level through eye camps and village volunteers Active use of past patients who are satisfies customers Patient education through patient counselors, posters and banners Keeping track and following up on non-acceptors of cataract surgery Periodically checking visual outcome and sight restoration rates Seeking to involve and integrate community leaders, local organisations and traditional healers in promotion of eye care