Situation Analysis on the Applicability of a Communist Approach in the Delivery of Refractive Error Services in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Refractive error is the leading cause of visual impairment globally. Different models are being applied to aid in the delivery of refractive error services. However, there is still a challenge when it comes to delivery of the services to the base of the pyramid population. As a result, there is course for an alarm to adopt a communist approach where each and every one will be able to access the services. Methodology: This was a prospective study in which respondents received the survey through online platforms. The survey was sent to 200 groups with each group having 150 participants. The Helsinki Declaration was adhered to. The response rate was 80% (24,000 out of 30,000). Results: Out of the 24,000 respondents, 60% were living in urban areas with 40% residing in rural areas. There was an association between the region of residence and access to refractive error services (t-test, p=0.04). The private sectors were 2.56 (95% CI 0.17–0.22) times likely to deliver refractive error services to the middle class living in urban areas compared to those residing in rural areas. The human resource remains a challenge as over 70% of the eye care providers are distributed within urban areas with less than 15% willing to work in rural areas.