Application of GIS to Analyze Health Status of Selected Communities Kalasin Province, Thailand

要旨

The aim of this cross-sectional design was to analyze health status of the population currently residing in three selected communities in northeastern province of Thailand with use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) Program. The study included 70 representatives household randomly selected from three target communities of Krainoon Subdistrict (village cluster number namely: Moo 1, Moo 8, and Moo 11) in Hauy Pueng District, Kalasin Province. Data were collected by using (i) an interview guide comprising of household composition, socio-economic and cultural background, health and health related information, as well as environmental health conditions and, (ii) satellite digital file image with input scoped ratio of 1:250,000 located as GPS (Global Positioning System) on virtual high precision for spatial information in relation to area location and a database on households and related information under study. After application of the Arc-View GIS Program, results showed linkages between location of the study communities and the database on composition, socio-economic and cultural background, as well as health and other related information of each household separated by community. All of the information in such database was designed to be modified and updated. In addition, the database was made easily available for the users in all parts of the household community. Linking the database of health related information with spatial information of households and communities will be useful for health personnel and authorities in the area to evaluate health status of the population and to find appropriate means to effectively disseminate information and innovation to their target population in both household and community levels.