BackgroundNo systematic attempt has been made to calculate the costs of scaling up mental health services in low-and middle-income countries.AimsTo estimate the expenditures needed to scale up the delivery of an essential mental healthcare package over a 10-year period (2006–2015).MethodA core package was defined, comprising pharmacological and/or psychosocial treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and hazardous alcohol use. Current service levels in 12 selected low-and middle-income countries were established using the WHO–AIMS assessment tool. Target-level resource needs were derived from published need assessments and economic evaluations.ResultsThe cost per capita of providing the core package attarget coverage levels (in US dollars) ranged from $1.85 to $2.60 per year in low-income countries and $3.20 to $6.25 per year in lower-middle-income countries, an additional annual investment of $0.18–0.55 per capita.ConclusionsAlthough significant new resources need to be invested, the absolute amount is not large when considered at the population level and against other health investment strategies.
Timing and cost of scaling up surgical services in low-income and middle-income countries from 2012 to 2030: a modelling study
