Spatial analysis and efficiency of healthcare delivery system in Meghalaya State, India: A ‘Z’ Score Approach

The study investigates the spatial distribution, significance, and efficiency of the healthcare delivery system in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, India. Utilising secondary data from the Statistical Handbook of 2022 and analytical techniques including Z-score standardisation and correlation matrix analysis via SPSS, the study highlights disparities in healthcare access and performance across districts. Findings reveal that districts like East Khasi Hills and West Garo Hills, which are better connected and urbanized, demonstrate higher healthcare efficiency, while remote and underdeveloped districts face infrastructural and personnel deficits. The research emphasises the need for decentralization, equitable distribution of healthcare infrastructure, community-level engagement, and integration of modern medical technologies. The study proposes strategic recommendations to strengthen primary health care (PHC) and improve health outcomes, particularly for underserved populations. When it comes to health care efficiency based on Z Score ranking, East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills and West Garo Hills have the highest score in terms of being the most efficient district in health care delivery in Meghalaya state.