A Study on Regional Differences in Healthcare in Korea: Using Position Value for Relative Comparison Index
10.4332/KJHPA.2021.31.4.491
- Author:
Hin-Moi YOUN
1
;
Choa YUN
;
Soo Hyun KANG
;
Junhyun KWON
;
Hyeon Ji LEE
;
Eun-Cheol PARK
;
Sung-In JANG
Author Information
1. Department of Public Health, Yonsei University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Health Policy and Management
2021;31(4):491-507
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:This study aims to measure regional healthcare differences in Korea, and define relatively underserved areas.
Methods:We employed position value for relative comparison index (PARC) to measure the healthcare status of 250 areas using 137 indicators in five following domains: healthcare demand, supply, accessibility, service utilization, and outcome. We performed a sensitivity analysis using t-SNE (t-distributed stochastic neighboring embedding).
Results:Based on PARC values, 83 areas were defined as relatively underserved areas, 49 of which were categorized as moderate and 34 as severe. The provincial regions with the most underserved areas were Gyeongbuk (16 areas), Gangwon (13), Jeonnam (13), and Gyeongnam (12).
Conclusion:This study suggests a relative comparison approach to define relatively underserved areas in healthcare. Further studies incorporating various perspectives and methods are required for policy implications.
