Analyzing the Accessibility to Primary Health Care Centers Using Geographic Information Systems: A Case Study of Tangier

Abdelmalek Esaadi University, ENSA of Tangier, MASI Research Group, Tangier, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: bahmane.soukaina@etu.uae.ac.ma

Abstract

Primary Health Care (PHC) is a pillar of any health care system, significantly enhancing population health through improved access and quality of care. This study utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to examine the spatial accessibility of populations to health facilities, focusing specifically on Tangier as a case study. Employing GIS, the research investigates how demographic data corresponds to travel times to PHC centers within walking zones of 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The primary goal is to uncover patterns and derive insights into how health services are distributed in relation to population densities and locations. These findings highlight significant spatial disparities in access to health care, providing crucial information for health planners and policymakers. The results are instrumental in addressing the uneven distribution of health services and ensuring equitable access to PHC across different areas. By identifying regions with inadequate coverage, the study pinpoints where health care facilities can be improved or expanded. Additionally, this analysis supports the development of targeted strategies to enhance health service accessibility, which is vital for informed policy-making aimed at improving health outcomes and achieving equitable health service delivery across diverse communities.