Inequity in the distribution of rural family physicians in Iran: a cross sectional study

Abstract

Purpose Equal distribution of health human resources is a major issue to achieve human rights in healthcare. Rural family physicians (RFPs) as a part of health human resources play an important role in delivering health services, so the purpose of this paper is to calculate amount of inequity in distribution of RFPs in Iran. Design/methodology/approach In this study, the authors tried to find inequity in the distribution of RFPs in the provinces of Iran. For this purpose, inequity indices containing concentration curves and indices were calculated by ranking health-adjusted life expectancy (HALE). Furthermore, a regression model was estimated to find the pattern and influencing factors of inequity in the distribution of RFPs. Findings The number of male RFPs was significantly higher in Sistan va Baloochestan, and in the same line, the number of female RFPs was higher in Zanjan province. Concentration index of total RFPs was 0.0568 (not significant) (males= 0.041, females= 0.0718). The results of regression model showed that HALE and per capita GDP did not have any significant relationship with RFPs distribution (HALE p=0.753, GDP p=0.792). Originality/value The RFP plan was successful in enhancing equal access to physician and health care services relatively. However, gender imbalance in distribution of RFPs was high especially in less-developed regions.

Global Population Aging, National Development Level, and Vulnerability to the Pandemic

“…First, establishing a stable and transparent financing mechanism can be the basis of realizing this goal. 59 Second, it would help to develop an effective plan for medical resource allocation to implement risk analysis and risk management by monitoring and evaluating the shortage of medical resources for health-crisis response in developing countries. Third, developing supporting infrastructure and tools or direct investment in medical resources can help enhance the overall supply of medical resources in developing countries.…”