Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) on Merseyside--cost/cost effectiveness.

We have costed our Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) programme on Merseyside since its start in January, 1979. Costs for initial training, maintenance and subsequent re-admissions have been included. At the end of 1981 the current cost to the NHS was pounds 5 510 per patient per year. This figure compares favourably with costs for other dialysis modes, especially when considering the older age and poorer medical condition of the CAPD patients.