Using geographic information systems to map eye care service distribution in rural and remote Western Australia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Many rural residents face barriers to eye care access. Government workforce data show a maldistribution of eye care providers in Western Australia however, no detailed information is available on regional coverage within the state. This study aimed to identify and map all eye care services in rural and remote Western Australia and to calculate the regional workforce rates.

Methods

A survey was sent to all optometry and ophthalmology practices in rural and remote Western Australia with questions on practitioner and equipment availability. Information on visiting services was captured directly through organisations as well as the survey. Geographic information systems were used to map service locations, calculate coverage of services relative to the population, and

SUBMITTER: Chen J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11998314 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature