Examining healthcare inequality for non-communicable diseases in Malawi: a hierarchical geospatial modelling approach.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is rising in low- and middle-income countries, including Malawi, yet spatial inequalities in NCD healthcare coverage remain poorly understood. In this research, we aim to: (1) develop a novel hierarchical geospatial framework to assess population coverage and accessibility of NCD services in Malawi and (2) identify underserved areas and provide evidence for targeted resource allocation.

Methods

Using 2019 Malawi Harmonized Health Facility Assessment Survey, hierarchical catchment areas were defined by facility type-primary healthcare (PHCs), district-level and central hospitals, with distance thresholds of 5 km walking, 25 km driving and 100 km driving, respectively. Incorporating facility readiness, we computed p

SUBMITTER: Cao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12625903 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature