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Analysis of Pharmacy Accessibility and Function in Wakayama Prefecture Using Geographic Information System
Satoki Kajimoto1, Shota Suzuki1, Hiroshi Okada1
1Department of Social & Community Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wakayama Medical University.
Summary
Pharmacy accessibility in Wakayama Prefecture shows regional disparities, with lower service availability in some areas despite overall density. Addressing these gaps is crucial for equitable healthcare resource distribution.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Geography
- Pharmaceutical Services Research
- Public Health
Background:
- Pharmacy accessibility is vital for healthcare resource distribution and identifying regional disparities.
- Previous research has not comprehensively analyzed the geographical distribution of pharmacies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the geographic accessibility and functionality of pharmacies in Wakayama Prefecture.
- To evaluate regional disparities in pharmacy services within the prefecture.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics in Wakayama Prefecture (Nov 2024 - Mar 2025).
- Utilized a geographic information system (GIS) to assess pharmacy service areas and population coverage.
- Analyzed pharmacy-to-population ratios, operating hours, pharmacist numbers, and specific functions.
Main Results:
- Pharmacies are concentrated in northern and coastal regions.
- Significant regional variation in population coverage within an 800-m service radius (69.4% in Wakayama Medical Region vs. 35.6% in Gobo Medical Region).
- Disparities exceeding 20% were found for 24-hour services and home dispensing.
Conclusions:
- Despite exceeding the national average pharmacy density, Wakayama Prefecture faces persistent accessibility challenges due to internal regional disparities.
- Equitable distribution of medical resources requires addressing these identified regional gaps in pharmacy accessibility.
- Future research should incorporate local resident needs assessments to guide service improvements.
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