Spatial Distribution of Tuberculosis Cases and Access to Health Care in Ghana

Prince Owusu Adoma, Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education – Winneba, Winneba – C/R
Dwamena Asante, Municipal Health Directorate, Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipal, Ghana Health Service
Acquah Francis, Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education – Winneba, Winneba – C/R
Chandi Gloria Margaretta , Municipal Health Directorate, Ga West Municipal, Accra – Greater Accra
Adams Osman, Department of Geography, University of Education, Winneba
Jacob Kwadwo Amponsah Abebrese, Department of Physician Assitanceship, Presbyterian University

The study analysed spatial distribution of tuberculosis cases and access to health care among tuberculosis patients in West Akim Municipality, Ghana. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional design and spatial analysis technique. All 66 tuberculosis patients identified during the study period were included. The results revealed that 15% of the study respondents were HIV positive, 6% HIV status was known and the remaining HIV negative. About 68.2% of the respondents had pulmonary positive cases, 30.3% were pulmonary negative, and the remaining (1.5%) was extra pulmonary tuberculosis. Spatially, Asamankese Central, Anum, and Asikafoamatam communities with high populations had a high density of tuberculosis patients. The results showed evidence of clustering of tuberculosis cases in the municipality (p = <0.001). The respondents' average distance to the nearest health facility was 1.2 kilometers. The presence of tuberculosis clustering in the municipality requires appropriate educational intervention by the policymakers to create awareness, and education.