Geospatial mapping of healthcare facility distribution in Makurdi local government area, Benue state

Globally, quality healthcare is a priority and right of the citizenry of any nation. Thus, an excellent Healthcare delivery system is an indispensable part of any robust society. This study seeks to investigate the degree of equity and spatial justice in the distribution of healthcare facilities in the local government area. Geospatial techniques, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS), have revolutionized healthcare planning and resource allocation. GIS allows for the visualization, analysis, and interpretation of spatial data, enabling healthcare planners to identify underserved areas, optimize the placement of facilities, and improve accessibility for populations in need. This study, therefore, investigates the spatial distribution of healthcare facilities, their spatial coverage and the proportion of the population served adequately within Makurdi LGA of Benue state. The methodology employed several approaches to unearth relevant information concerning the state of primary healthcare within Makurdi. INEC data for the local government area under consideration was obtained from the INEC office in Makurdi, the state capital and projected to cover the entire population of the area of interest. The LGA current population was estimated. Thereafter, generated population density data in a continuous raster format such that population density values can be obtained for each point within our area of interest. To accomplish this task, inverse distance weighted interpolation analysis was employed. Buffer rings of 1, 2 and 3 Km were generated around the healthcare facilities using analysis tools in ArcGIS and used in acquiring subsets of the population density raster. To determine the degree of clustering, randomness or dispersal of healthcare facilities, the average nearest neighbor analysis was carried out. Spatial intersections and overlays were performed between the buffer zones and the built-up areas of the LGA, facilitating the determination of coverage and distribution of PHC services. Areas falling within the 2km buffer zones of one or more PHCs were identified as having optimal service coverage, labeled as "served" or "over-served" areas. Areas that did not fall within any 2km buffer zone were classified as "under-served" areas, indicating a lack of access to PHC facilities within the recommended distance. 11 proposed sites for new PHCs were identified distributed across five wards: Agan (2), Bar (2), Fiidi (3), Modern Market (2), and North Bank I (2). Analysis of Primary Health Care (PHC) coverage and delivery across the Local Government Area (LGA) revealed significant disparities in access to essential primary healthcare services with some areas well-served by existing PHC facilities, while others remain under-served, lacking adequate access to these vital resources.