title: Cost effectiveness and efficiency in assistive technology service delivery.
abstract: In order to develop and maintain a viable service delivery program, the realities of cost effectiveness and cost efficiency in providing assistive technology must be addressed.  Cost effectiveness relates to value of the outcome compared to the expenditures.  Cost efficiency analyzes how a provider uses available resources to supply goods and services.  This paper describes how basic business principles of benefit/cost analysis can be used to determine cost effectiveness.  In addition, basic accounting principles are used to illustrate methods of evaluating a program's cost efficiency.  Service providers are encouraged to measure their own program's effectiveness and efficiency (and potential viability) in light of current trends.  This paper is meant to serve as a catalyst for continued dialogue on this topic.
authors.affiliation: Rehabilitation Medicine and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle.
authors.forename: C G
authors.initials: CG
authors.lastname: Warren
mesh_terms: D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D006801:Humans; D012656:Self-Help Devices / Q000191:economics*