An Analysis of Primary Care Physician Accessibility and Medical Resource Distribution in Eastern Quebec: Utilizing an Enhanced Two-Step Floating Catchment Area (E2SFCA) Methodology

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Eastern Quebec by employing an enhanced two-step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) methodology. This approach will facilitate the identification of patterns in primary care accessibility that may not be readily apparent through the use of regional availability measures. Methods: To evaluate the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), an enhanced two-step floating catchment area methodology was utilized. This approach considers both the population supply of PCPs at the dissemination area level and the travel time between PCPs and dissemination areas. Additionally, a continuous distance decay function (β) was employed. Results: The enhanced two-step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) methodology is effective in identifying possibly underserved areas that could have otherwise appeared to have sufficient access when evaluated using traditional provider-to-population ratios. The availability of primary care services is contingent upon the presence of adequate road infrastructure. Populations residing in areas with limited access to main road networks may experience compromised access to primary care. This issue disproportionately affects vulnerable individuals who lack private transportation options. Conclusions: The application of the enhanced two-step floating catchment area methodology can facilitate the identification of areas experiencing a shortage of primary care physicians. This information can be used to inform the development of regional medical workforce programs, such as "plans régionaux d’effectifs médicaux", and to support the establishment of rural residency initiatives.