What is the cost of the treatment of the diabetic retinopathy by Argon laser in Yaounde

Introduction : the aim was to evaluate the total cost of treatment of diabetic retinopathy by argon laser for a patient when indicated. Methods : prospective cross-sectional and descriptive survey, carried out in the angiography center of the Yaounde Central Hospital from October 2014 to October 2015. All diabetic patients with retinopathy and suitable indication for argon laser treatment were included consecutively. The costs related to the initial and final AGF, the appointment for follow up, the treatment, return fares for transport to the place of residence and the cost of laser treatment. Results : included were 43 (13%) patients out of 330 with diabetic retinopathy. The mean age was of 5.67 ± 8.40 years. Housewives, homemakers were the most represented group with 15 (34.9%) case followed of 13 (30.2%) group of retired one. Twenty seven patients (62.8%) patients were self-sponsored for all their expenses. In average the total expenditure was of 86002 ± 67197 F CFA per eye corresponding to 132 ± 102 euros. The cost of the treatment of the diabetic retinopathy by argon laser is high, increased by the additional cost related to transport. Conclusion : the creation of satellites centers in the 10 regions of Cameroun would reduce these costs.