The role of geographical information systems methods in studying the epidemiology of diseases of the urinary system

Abstract

Three compelling reasons force medical managers in Ukraine to delve deeper into the methods and capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Firstly, the ongoing healthcare reform, which changes the state budgetary type to an insurance one. This requires a revision of the principles of distribution and logistics of medical personnel, funds, diagnostic and transport equipment and drug supplies. The second reason is the digitalization and intensification of information channels, since medical professionals and patients themselves want to receive immediate, comprehensive information about health-related events. The development of evidence-based medical management, as well as the increasing cost of quality medical services, has led to the creation of the concept of the optimal “patient route”. This approach has shown in practice its high effectiveness, since it really helps stakeholders and decision makers to find optimal logistics in organizing a local public health system.