Authors : V. Saravanabavan; Gigilinda Marpna; C. Vinothini

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 9 - September

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5hc444ck

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26sep468

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : : This study evaluates the spatial equity, locational efficiency, and service performance of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya. Utilizing a dual-analytical approach, Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and Nearest Neighbour Analysis (NNA) were applied to examine the spatial distribution of the district's health facilities, while a multi-criteria Z-score standardisation was employed to evaluate the clinical and operational performance of five selected PHCs (Byrnihat, Umden, Marngar, Mawhati, and Kyrdem) across 12 infrastructure indicators. To capture the user perspective, a household survey of 100 respondents was conducted to assess physical and financial accessibility. The NNA yielded a Nearest Neighbour Ratio (Rn) of 1.81, indicating a statistically significant uniform (dispersed) spatial arrangement of health facilities designed to maximize territorial coverage. However, significant regional imbalances were observed between the sparse, isolated western region and the denser eastern health network. Z-score standardisation revealed major performance disparities. Byrnihat PHC emerged as the top-performing centre (Composite Z-Score: +9.13), characterised by a strong clinical workforce and high patient utilization. Conversely, Umden PHC ranked lowest (Composite Z-Score: -3.67), constrained by severe staffing shortages and service underutilization despite high bed capacity (12). This study highlights the need for targeted infrastructural upgrades, manpower redistribution, and the integration of GIS spatial analytical models into decentralised healthcare planning to ensure equitable and efficient healthcare delivery.

Keywords : Spatial Distribution, Nearest Neighbour Analysis, Z-Score Standardisation, Healthcare Accessibility.

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