GIS-Based Assessment of Accessibility to Healthcare Facilities in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right and a key indicator of sustainable development. However, the distribution and accessibility of healthcare facilities vary significantly between urban and rural areas, especially in developing countries. Geographic accessibility plays a crucial role in determining how easily people can reach healthcare services when needed (World Health Organization, 2021). Inadequate access to healthcare can lead to delays in treatment, increased disease burden, and higher mortality rates.

In Nigeria, spatial inequality in healthcare provision has remained a major challenge. Many communities, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, face difficulties accessing quality healthcare due to poor transportation networks, uneven distribution of hospitals, and lack of spatial planning (Adewuyi & Akinola, 2020). Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, is an expanding urban center with a growing population. Despite hosting several healthcare institutions, accessibility varies among neighborhoods. A Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based assessment is therefore vital to evaluate spatial accessibility and support equitable healthcare planning.

1.1 Background to the Study

Health accessibility is influenced by both spatial and non-spatial factors. Spatial factors include the distance to healthcare facilities, road networks, and geographic barriers, while non-spatial factors involve affordability, service quality, and population awareness (Obafemi & Adebayo, 2019). In many Nigerian cities, healthcare facilities are concentrated in urban centers, leaving peri-urban and rural settlements underserved.

In Abeokuta, areas such as Ijaye, Ita-Iyalode, and Asero are well served with hospitals and clinics, while outskirts like Obantoko, Alabata, and Kemta experience poor accessibility. As the population continues to grow, there is increasing pressure on existing facilities, leading to overcrowding and service delays. GIS technology provides powerful tools for mapping, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data to understand such accessibility patterns. Through GIS, this study aims to determine the extent to which residents of Abeokuta can access healthcare services within reasonable travel distances.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Access to healthcare is essential for the well-being of citizens, yet many residents of Abeokuta still face challenges in reaching healthcare facilities on time. The problem stems from uneven spatial distribution of hospitals, poor road connectivity, and inadequate transport services. Some areas have multiple hospitals located close to each other, while others have none within several kilometers. This imbalance often results in unequal access and health disparities among communities.
Despite the availability of spatial technologies like GIS, there is limited research in Ogun State that maps healthcare accessibility at the local level. A GIS-based assessment can help identify underserved areas and guide policymakers in equitable resource allocation. Hence, this study investigates the spatial accessibility of healthcare facilities in Abeokuta using GIS techniques.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities in Abeokuta, Ogun State using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

The specific objectives are to:

1. Identify and map the distribution of healthcare facilities in Abeokuta.

2. Analyze spatial accessibility to healthcare centers using GIS tools.

3. Determine areas with inadequate access to healthcare services.

4. Recommend strategies to improve equitable access to healthcare facilities.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the spatial distribution pattern of healthcare facilities in Abeokuta?

2. How accessible are these facilities to residents within the metropolis?

3. Which areas are underserved or have limited healthcare access?

4. What measures can enhance equitable healthcare delivery across Abeokuta?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This research is significant because it applies GIS to evaluate healthcare accessibility, providing a scientific basis for planning and decision-making. The results will help the Ogun State Ministry of Health and local governments identify areas needing additional healthcare investment. It will also guide urban planners in site selection for new hospitals or clinics. Moreover, the study contributes to the growing literature on health geography and supports Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study covers Abeokuta metropolis, which includes Abeokuta North and Abeokuta South Local Government Areas. It considers public and private healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and health centers. The analysis is limited to spatial accessibility based on proximity and road network connectivity. Factors such as service quality, cost, and patient satisfaction are beyond the scope of this research.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

• Accessibility: The ease with which people can reach and use essential services such as healthcare.

• Healthcare Facility: A physical location where medical services are provided to the public, including hospitals and clinics.

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): A computer-based tool used to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data for decision-making.

• Spatial Distribution: The arrangement of facilities or features across a geographic area.

• Underserved Area: A region or community with insufficient access to essential healthcare services.

References
Adewuyi, O. J., & Akinola, S. O. (2020). Spatial inequality and accessibility to healthcare facilities in Nigerian cities. Journal of Health Geography, 14(2), 56–71.
Obafemi, A. A., & Adebayo, T. A. (2019). Application of GIS in evaluating access to healthcare facilities in Ogun State, Nigeria. Nigerian Geographical Journal, 13(1), 89–103.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Universal health coverage and equitable access to care. Geneva: WHO Press.