Analysis of medical resources allocation in four municipalities and equity evaluation

Abstract

Objective To offer decision support for reasonable allocation of medical resources by analysis of the present resources allocated.Methods Lorenz curve and Gini coefficient method were called into play.This paper studied such medical resources as the practicing doctors,registered nurses,medical institutions and hospital beds,from both the population distribution and geographical distribution aspects.The purpose is to compare the allocation in these municipalities (Beijing,Tianjin,Shanghai and Chongqing).Results If the Lorenz curve is drawn based on the total population served with such resources,the Gini coefficients indieate relatively balanced allocation of medical institutions,practicing physicians,and registered nurses in the municipalities,and highly balanced allocation of hospital beds.If the curve is drawn based on geographical distribution,the Gini Coefficient indicates relatively balanced allocation of medical institutions allocation in these municipalities,yet considerable difference in the allocation of practicing physicians,registered nurses,and hospital beds.Conclusion The study shows that medical resources allocation in China in these municipalities mirrors the condition of Priority to population density,and neglect of geographical distribution.It also reveals poor equity in the geographical distribution of medical resources,which plagues accessibility of medical resources. Key words: Municipality; Medical resource allocation; Lorenz curve; Gini coefficient; Equity