Geographical Inequalities in the Distribution of Healthcare Specialists in Poland

Background/Objectives: Healthcare specialists are fundamental to the healthcare system, so ensuring their fair distribution is essential for providing sustainable, equitable services. This study aimed to evaluate geographical inequity in the distribution of healthcare specialists across Poland's macro-regions from 2018 to 2024. Methods: Data were obtained from Statistics Poland. Healthcare specialist availability was measured as density rates per 10,000 population and per km². Population- and geographic-based inequalities were assessed using the unitless Gini coefficient (0-1), and the unitless Theil index. Results: The analysis yielded several key findings. Firstly, the spatial distribution of healthcare specialists is considerably less equitable than their distribution relative to population size, with clear differences between macro-regions. Access to oncologists and cardiologists was particularly unequal. These patterns demonstrate persistent structural imbalances in specialist availability. Conclusions: The results of this study can inform more effective policies aimed at achieving a fairer distribution of specialist care across the country. Other countries characterized by similar issues can build on these findings and adapt them to their own contexts.