Relative Inequalities in Geographic Distribution of Health Care Resources in Kermanshah Province, Islamic Republic of Iran; [Inegalites Relatives Dans La Repartition Geographique Des Ressources En Soins De Sante Dans La Province De Kermanchah (Republique Islamique D’Iran)] Publisher Pubmed



Rezaei S¹ ; Karyani AK² ; Fallah R³ ; Matin BK¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal Published:2016

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate inequalities in the geographical distribution of human and physical resources in the health sector of Kermanshah province, Islamic Republic of Iran. In a retrospective, cross-sectional study, data from the Statistical Centre of Iran were used to calculate inequality measures (Gini coefficient and index of dissimilarity) over the years 2005-11. The highest Gini coefficient for human resources was observed for pharmacists in 2005 (0.75) and the lowest for paramedics in 2010 and 2011 (0.10). The highest indices of dissimilarity were also for pharmacists in 2005 (29%) and paramedics in 2011 (3%). For physical resources, the highest and lowest Gini coefficients were for rehabilitation centres in 2010 (0.59) and health houses in 2011 (0.12) respectively. Generally, inequalities in the distribution of health care resources were lower at the end of the study period, although there was potential for more equitable distribution of pharmacists, specialists, health houses and beds. © 2016, World Health Organization. All rights reserved.