Shillong, May 6: In Meghalaya, the promise of healthcare often hinges on location. A spatial analysis using Z-scores reveals sharp disparities across the state, highlighting both commendable progress and persistent inequity.
The study, conducted by Danyon Dameshwa Jyrwa, V. Saravanabavan, Laitpharlang Cajee, and C. Vinothini of North Eastern Hill University and Madurai Kamaraj University, Tamil Nadu, respectively, was published in the International Journal of Science and Research Archive. A Z-score is a statistical measurement that indicates how a particular score relates to the average of a group. The study used secondary data from the Statistical Handbook of 2022.
Based on Z-score rankings, East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and West Garo Hills emerge as the most efficient districts in healthcare delivery—driven by their urban infrastructure, higher population densities, and more robust medical services.
In contrast, South West Khasi Hills, South Garo Hills, and East Jaintia Hills face tougher terrain, fewer roads, and sparser hospital networks. These districts, many of them relatively new or geographically isolated, rank lower in healthcare efficiency. Rugged topography, low population density, and poor connectivity create significant barriers to accessing basic health services. As a result, PHCs are fewer, medical personnel are scarce, and communities must often travel great distances for care that others can access within minutes.
A similar trend is observed in the distribution of doctors. East Khasi Hills scores the highest (2.42), supported by the presence of specialised medical facilities and a high patient inflow from nearby districts. West Garo Hills (1.33) follows, owing to its regional importance. East Jaintia Hills (-0.84) has the fewest doctors, reflecting infrastructural challenges and limited health centres.
The concentration of pharmacists correlates with the number of health centres. East Khasi Hills again scores the highest (2.73), indicating adequate pharmacist coverage. South West Khasi Hills (-0.85) records the lowest, reinforcing its status as an underserved district.
“The healthcare delivery system in Meghalaya presents a complex picture of progress and challenges. The spatial analysis using Z-scores has revealed substantial disparities in the distribution and accessibility of primary healthcare infrastructure across the eleven districts of the state. The rugged terrain and dispersed rural population play a significant role in shaping the healthcare landscape,” the study notes.
East Khasi Hills, in particular, houses the state capital, Shillong and leads in nearly all healthcare parameters due to its advanced infrastructure and concentration of medical manpower.
The study concludes that only through inclusive, strategic interventions can Meghalaya build a more efficient and equitable healthcare system.
“The findings underscore the urgent need for a more balanced distribution of PHCs and healthcare staff, particularly in underserved districts. Investments in road infrastructure, health awareness, and the capacity-building of healthcare workers—especially lab technicians and pharmacists—are essential for strengthening the system,” the study says.
It recommends that policies should focus on decentralising health services, empowering community-level health workers, and integrating modern medical technologies at the primary level to ensure equitable healthcare for all.
The researchers argue that only through such inclusive and targeted strategies can Meghalaya move toward a more efficient and accessible healthcare system, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for its people.
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