Document Type
Other
Publication Date
Fall 2023
Abstract
Access to timely healthcare remains a cornerstone of community well-being, yet spatial disparities often hinder equitable service delivery. This study employs a GIS-based network analysis to evaluate hospital accessibility across six urban and rural communities in Calhoun County, Alabama. By integrating road networks, drive-time analytics, and demographic data, the study reveals significant variations in healthcare reach, highlighting Jacksonville and Oxford as well-served or overserved, while Alexandria, Piedmont, Ohatchee, and Wellington remain underserved. Through service area modeling, closest facility analysis, and spatial-demographic overlays, optimal locations for future healthcare facilities were proposed to address access gaps. The findings offer critical insights for planners and policymakers seeking to enhance healthcare equity through targeted infrastructure development. This study underscores the value of spatial thinking in public health and lays a scalable framework for future location-allocation analyses across diverse geographies.
Recommended Citation
Tandoh, Gideon, "Network Analysis for Healthcare Facilities: A Geospatial Analysis of Hospital Accessibility and Strategic Site Proposal in Calhoun County, Alabama" (2023). Research, Papers & Creative Work. 2.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/student_res/2