Population Changes and Healthcare Delivery in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

This study investigates the population dynamics of healthcare delivery in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, emphasising gender disparities, spatial distribution, and the accessibility of basic health facilities, employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for analysis. The research reveals that Izzi, Onicha, Ikwo, and Ohaukwu Local Government Areas (LGAs) collectively account for over 40% of the state's population. Demographic data indicates a 2.8% annual population growth across the 13 LGAs from 2006 to 2022, with Ivo LGA, the least populated, representing approximately 4.6% of the state's population. The GIS analysis indicates that 81.1% of the population resides within 60 minutes of a primary healthcare centre (PHC), though accessibility varies significantly, especially in rural areas. The gender distribution shows an overall balance with 49% males and 51% females; however, LGAs such as Izzi and Ikwo exhibit a higher proportion of females than males. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted healthcare interventions, including equitable resource allocation, enhancement of PHC facilities, and the provision of gender-sensitive services such as maternity and pediatric care. The GIS-based accessibility mapping highlights the importance of incorporating spatial analysis into healthcare planning to identify underserved areas and optimise resource allocation. This study provides essential data for developing population-centered, spatially aware, and sustainable healthcare policies in Ebonyi State, thus serving as a valuable resource for international health researchers and policymakers.