Efficient high-volume cataract services: the Aravind model

Aravind Eye Care System began as an 11-bed eye clinic in 1976. Over the last 36 years, over 40 million outpatient examinations have been performed and over 5 million patients have undergone eye surgery or laser procedures. Aravind, with its mission to 'eliminate needless blindness', has been able to achieve this by adhering to the principle of providing large volume, high quality and affordable services in a financially sustainable manner both for the patients and for Aravind. Much importance is given to equity – ensuring that all patients are accorded the same high quality care and service, regardless of their economic status. A critical component of Aravind’s model is the high patient volume, which brings with it the benefits of economies of scale. This article talks about how Aravind built this high patient volume and kept the costs low to provide efficient, good quality and affordable eye care.