Examining changes in the equity of physician distribution in Japan: a specialty-specific longitudinal study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

In this longitudinal study, we examined changes in the geographical distribution of physicians in Japan from 2000 to 2014 by clinical specialty with adjustments for healthcare demand based on population structure.

Methods

The Japanese population was adjusted for healthcare demand using health expenditure per capita stratified by age and sex. The numbers of physicians per 100 000 demand-adjusted population (DAP) in 2000 and 2014 were calculated for subprefectural regions known as secondary medical areas. Disparities in the geographical distribution of physicians for each specialty were assessed using Gini coefficients. A subgroup analysis was conducted by dividing the regions into four groups according to urban-rural classification and initial physician supply.

SUBMITTER: Hara K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5781009 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature