Cost-benefit analysis of orientation and mobility programs for adults with vision disability: a contingent valuation study

Purpose The purpose of this study is to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of orientation and mobility (O&M) programs from three perspectives: the general public, the experienced, and the potential users of O&M programs. Methods Willingness-to-pay (WTP) for O&M programs was collected via a contingent valuation survey using a double-bound dichotomous choice approach. WTP was estimated using interval regression analyses, accounting for study arm, sex, occupation, income, and self-rated health. The cost data were estimated from a service provider's perspective. The net present value (NPV), variation if delivered by tele-O&M, was investigated. Results The adjusted mean NPV of O&M programs was $3857 (95% CI: $3760-$3954) per client, with highest NPV from the general public ($4289, 95% CI: $4185-$4392), followed by the experienced users ($3158, 95% CI: $2897-$3419) and the potential users ($2867, 95% CI: $2680-$3054). The NPV reached break-even for tele-O&M. Conclusions There was strong community support for investment into O&M programs considering benefits for clients over and above the cost of providing the services.

Automated summary

The purpose of this study was to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of orientation and mobility (O&M) programs from three perspectives: the general public, the experienced users, and the potential users. The results showed strong community support for the O&M programs, with the highest net present value (NPV) from the general public. Tele-O&M reached break-even in terms of NPV.