China has been a case study of economic success based on recent rapid economic growth, which, according to the GIS mapping data, has shown huge disparities in the regional development of healthcare facilities. The eastern coastal regions disproportionally share the benefit of the developments, while the western and central regions remain relatively underserved. This study proposes to investigate the dynamics influencing this relationship as they affect the availability of specialty professionals, hospital bed capacity, and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. The study uses national health statistics and peer-reviewed studies in a mixed-method approach to undertake a correlation analysis and make sense of the data. The study will rely on source materials using a literature review to understand what drives investment in healthcare resources and how to overcome barriers creating unequal access to healthcare resources. The study also intends to use the results to inform on strategies that could be adopted in these unique circumstances for China as a case study for improved infrastructure balance and equitable access to healthcare.
Research Article
Open Access