[Geographic information systems tools to delimit areas in Chilean family health centers. Concepts from practice].

Abstract

The use of geographic information systems (SIG) in health planning has proven to be essential, especially when considering factors such as mobility, transportation, and urban growth. Unregulated urban growth tends to concentrate and segregate services, leaving the most needy populations on the periphery without adequate access to healthcare. The analysis of geospatial information and its integration into health planning not only improves the distribution of services but also facilitates decision-making based on a more comprehensive understanding of the territory. Implementing GIS strategies can contribute to better equity in healthcare and more inclusive and effective urban planning. An essay presents reflections on using GIS in a city of southern Chile.