Methods of analyzing regional dermatological care as exemplified by the city of Hamburg.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The rural-urban divide is often linked to regional inequalities in healthcare. However, studies have also shown regional healthcare disparities within urban areas. To evaluate these studies, further parameters such as accessibility must be added to the standard criteria. The objective of this study was to present methodic tools for evaluating dermatological healthcare provision in Hamburg, primarily focusing on accessibility. METHODS: Analyzing data from 97 districts, the geographical distribution of 101 dermatologists and the physician-patient ratio were determined. In a second step, network analysis regarding accessibility was performed. RESULTS: There are regional inequalities in Hamburg with respect to dermatological care. Depending on the district, the physician-patient ratio ranges from 44.9 % (undersupply) to > 500 % (oversupply). Similar differences exist regarding accessibility. Although 94.5 % of the population of Hamburg is able to reach the nearest dermatologist within ten minutes (by car), it may take more than 30 minutes depending on district and mode of transportation. CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of the physician-patient ratio reveals differences regarding dermatological care in Hamburg. However, results of the network analysis show that these differences do not significantly affect access to dermatological care. Therefore, network analysis should be used as an additional tool to evaluate regional healthcare provision.