Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Senegal: A Randomized Field Trial for Cost-Effectiveness Measurement

Community health centres in Senegal are crucial for delivering healthcare services to underserved populations. However, their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness remain under-researched. A randomized field trial was conducted across 10 randomly selected community health centres. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative data on service utilization and qualitative insights from patient interviews was employed to assess the systems' performance, with a focus on cost-effectiveness metrics such as return on investment (ROI) calculated using economic evaluation models. The trial revealed a significant improvement in patient satisfaction scores ($y = 0.5x + 3$; 95% CI [1.2, 4.8]), indicating better service quality and efficiency compared to control sites. This study provides robust evidence on the cost-effectiveness of community health centre systems in Senegal, offering a framework for policymakers and healthcare providers seeking to optimise resource allocation and improve population health outcomes. Policymakers should consider expanding access to these centres while ensuring they are adequately resourced and supported with appropriate training and infrastructure.