Location-allocation modelling for health services research in low resource settings.

Abstract

This chapter reviews and provides examples of building location-allocation models for estimating accessibility to health care services. Study examples and process steps are provided using spatial data that are typically available for low- and middle-income countries, thereby providing content examples that reflect the data availability and contexts of health services research specific to many of the world's geographic regions. The first part of this chapter discusses sources of the key data that are required for building location-allocation models using a geographic information system (GIS). The second part defines core location-allocation models and their application in health services research. The relevant formulas and conceptual frameworks are also explained. Examples of the use of these models, and details of the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, are also given.