Abstract

Dr. Evans Chazireni* and Manasa Sibanda

ABSTRACT

Disparities in levels of health between regions within a country are normally regarded as a problem. Zimbabwe is characterised by unequal conditions of health in the administrative districts. The current study examined the spatial inequalities health conditions in Zimbabwe. Simple indices were used to determine the conditions of health in the administrative districts of Zimbabwe. Data was collected on various health variables in order to perform the demarcation. The data was collected from the Ministry of health and Child Welfare (20014) National health profile and the ZIMSTAT (2014) published census reports. Cluster analysis was performed to demarcate administrative districts according the level of health conditions. Districts with minimum difference were demarcated in a single cluster. Clusters were delineated using data on patterns of diseases, health and healthcare and such clusters were used to demarcate the country‘s spatial health system into health regions. It emerged from the research that generally the administrative districts in the country have very poor and poor health conditions. In addition, the spatial health system is characterised by severe spatial inequalities. Some districts are experiencing poor and very poor health conditions and serious health challenges but others comparatively have good and very good health conditions.