A cross-sectional ecological analysis of international and sub-national health inequalities in commercial geospatial resource availability

Abstract Background: Commercial geospatial data resources are frequently used to understand healthcare utilisation. Although there is widespread evidence of a digital divide for other digital resources and infra-structure, it is unclear how commercial geospatial data resources are distributed relative to health need. Methods To examine the distribution of commercial geospatial data resources relative to health needs, we assembled coverage and quality metrics for commercial geocoding, neighbourhood characterisation, and travel time calculation resources for 183 countries.

Geographic Distribution of Registered Packaged Water Production in Ghana: Implications for Piped Supplies, Groundwater Management and Product Transportation

Abstract: Packaged water consumption has grown rapidly in urban areas of many low‐income and middle‐income countries, but particularly in Ghana. However, the sources of water used by this growing packaged water industry and the implications for water resource management and transport‐related environmental impacts have not been described. This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution of regulated packaged water production in Ghana, both in relation to demand for natural mineral water and hydrogeological characteristics.

Use of a spatial scan statistic to identify clusters of births occurring outside Ghanaian health facilities for targeted intervention

Objective: To identify and evaluate clusters of births that occurred outside health facilities in Ghana for targeted intervention. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using a convenience sample of live births registered in Ghanaian health facilities from January 1 to December 31, 2014. Data were extracted from the district health information system. A spatial scan statistic was used to investigate clusters of home births through a discrete Poisson probability model. Scanning with a circular spatial window was conducted only for clusters with high rates of such deliveries.

Spatial distribution of emergency obstetric and newborn care services in Ghana: Using the evidence to plan interventions

Objective: To provide clear policy directions for gaps in the provision of signal function services and sub-regions requiring priority attention using data from the 2010 Ghana Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) survey. Methods: Using 2010 survey data, the fraction of facilities with only one or two signal functions missing was calculated for each facility type and EmONC designation. Thematic maps were used to provide insight into inequities in service provision.