Evaluation of the equity of resource allocation in maternal and child health institutions in China based on three evaluation dimensions

Objective To evaluate the equity of resource allocation in maternal and child health(MCH) institutions in China, in order to improve their current situation of resource allocation.

Methods The Gini coefficient, Lorentz curve, concentration index, concentration curve and Theil index were used to evaluate the equity of MCH institution resource allocation from three dimensions of population, geographical area and economy.

Results The concentration index values of various MCH institution resources were all negative. The Gini coefficient of various resources distributed by geographical area was greater than 0.6 except for beds. The intra-regional difference contribution rate of various resources was higher than inter-regional difference contribution rate based on three evaluation dimensions.

Conclusion The equity of MCH institution resources allocation is the worst from the perspective of geographical area. Various resources tend to be allocated in low economic areas. The internal differences in the eastern, central, and western regions are the main factors associated with equity. Administrative departments at all levels should adapt measures to formulate reasonable regional health plans in accordance with local conditions.