Regional Disparities and Associated Factors Underlying CDC Health Professional Distribution in China

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Spatial Epidemiology

Background:

• Significant regional disparities exist in health professional (HP) distribution within China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Understanding these disparities and their drivers is crucial for effective regional health planning and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the distribution and identify driving factors of health professionals (HPs) at China's CDCs.
• To provide insights for optimizing public health resource allocation and regional health planning.

Main Methods:

• Employed Gini coefficient to assess HP distribution equity (2012-2023).
• Utilized Moran's I for spatial agglomeration analysis.
• Applied geographic detector model to identify allocation drivers.

Main Results:

• HP numbers at CDCs increased from 2012-2023.
• Distribution equity varied: Gini coefficients were 0.16 (population) and 0.58 (geographical area).
• Spatial clustering declined for population but remained stable for geography; western regions showed persistent low-low clustering.
• Synergistic effects of factors like education, health expenditure, aging, and GDP significantly influenced HP distribution.

Conclusions:

• Observed significant regional disparities in HP distribution across 31 provinces.
• Distribution by service area was less equitable than by population.
• Western China faces a notable shortage and inadequate geographical distribution of healthcare professionals.
• Recommended targeted spatial interventions and multi-factor strategies for future policy.