Spatial analysis of primary healthcare accessibility patterns in Migori County, Kenya

OpenAlex İngilizce

The inequitable and insufficient evidence-based allocation of health resources has exacerbated the health disparities in developing nations. Indicators of inadequate accessibility and misuse of health resources include urban-centered health facility site selection and overlapping health service areas. This research employed Service area analysis and the Maximum Covering Location Problem (MCLP) to assess spatial accessibility while considering the operational schedules of basic healthcare providers. Utilizing the motorbike model, the spatial accessibility to basic healthcare facilities amounted to 84%. However, certain facilities did not operate during weekends or around the clock. During the weekends, accessibility decreased to 60%, and for 24-hour accessibility, it dropped to 49%. Consequently, it is evident that the operating hours of healthcare facilities have a significant effect on spatial accessibility. This study proposed the upgrade of strategically positioned healthcare facilities to enhance spatial access and bolster the referral network for the local population.