earticle

영어

This study empirically examines the spatial impact of the National Fire Hospital, currently under construction to address the healthcare infrastructure deficit in the central region of Chungcheongbuk-do. The research focuses on analyzing the transformation of regional accessibility and spatial equity within the healthcare delivery system. Methodologically, a dual spatial analysis framework is employed: a GIS-based OD Matrix analysis to measure physical connectivity via road networks, and the Enhanced 2-Step Floating Catchment Area (E2SFCA) model to assess potential spatial accessibility by accounting for the supply-demand interaction between hospital capacity and population distribution. Additionally, the Gini Coefficient is utilized to quantify the reduction of spatial disparities in healthcare resource distribution. The analysis demonstrates that the strategic placement of the National Fire Hospital significantly improves physical accessibility, effectively integrating Chungbuk Innovation City (Maengdongmyeon, Eumseong-gun; Deoksan-eup, Jincheon-gun) and its surrounding settlements into the hospital’s service catchment area. Furthermore, substantial spatial spillover effects were observed, expanding the accessible service area to include neighboring Jeungpyeong-gun and parts of Goesan-gun. Significantly, the reduction in the province-wide Gini Coefficient confirms that the new facility functions as a regional anchor, correcting the structural imbalance of medical resources. These findings underscore that the spatial allocation of public infrastructure is a critical determinant in enhancing settlement conditions and fostering balanced regional development.