Determining Inequality and Trend of Geographic Accessibility to Pediatricians in Iran: 2007-2013

Introduction The mortality rate of children is one of the most important indicators to measuring the development of countries. Equitable access to pediatricians is an important factor in reducing child mortality and promoting society health. The aim of this study was to investigate the inequality and trend of geographic accessibility to Pediatricians in Iran in the period 2007 to 2013. Materials and Methods We used the Gini coefficient and the index of dissimilarity for investigating the geographic distribution of pediatricians in the period 2007 to 2013 in Iran. Also, a regression model used for determining time trend of inequality. Data about the number of pediatricians and number of live birth in each province were obtained from the Statistical Center of Iran (SCI). Results The Gini coefficient was 0.27, 0.24, 0.26, 0.23, 0.23, 0.23, 0.25 and 0.21 in 2007 to 2013, respectively. It means that the pediatricians approximately had equal distribution during the studied period. The dissimilarity index of pediatricians were 18.35, 17.4, 19.4, 16.73, 14.93, 14.66 and 11.99 during 2007-2013. It shows that 18.35 percent of total pediatricians should be redistributed to achieve complete equality in pediatrician’s distribution in 2007. The time trend analysis showed that inequality have been decreased during the studied period but it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion The results showed that there are some inequality in Pediatricians distribution and most of pediatricians are in developed provinces. Thus, policy makers for improving child’s health in Iran should develop a comprehensive plan for appropriate distribution of pediatricians.