A Simple Algorithm for Anti-venom Distribution

Despite being a major health problem, snakebites in Colombia are not managed as a neglected tropical disease, leaving the distribution of antivenom to the regular structure of the health system. This strategy leads to a lack of inventory and control of the supplies, increasing the probability of patient displacement, local antivenom shortages and deaths due to lack of treatment. We propose an algorithm that analyzes snakebite incidence rates, health centers and geographic data to acheieve two main objectives: grouping municipalities into patches, and an antivenom distribution strategy for these patches. Grouping was done with a grid system that ensures ready treatment, minimizing the amount of hospitals that need antivenom for full coverage. For the distribution algorithm, three strategies were evaluated: equal distribution, random/lottery distribution and an incidence rate distribution. Results show that a grouping algorithm ensures access to treatment and minimizes patient displacement, while the incidence rate distribution strategy optimizes the use of available antivenom. In view of this, a regulated antivenom distribution policy managed by public health authorities is necessary in order to ensure full coverage with minimal deaths and optimal use of antivenom stock in Colombia.