Title: Web GIS as a useful tool for the health and social service sector

Authors: Joseph Saltenberger; Yawen Li; Ming-Hsiang Tsou; Saima Bahramzi

Addresses: Department of Geography, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA 92182-4493, USA ' SDSU School of Social Work, Hepner Hall #1195500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-4119, USA ' Department of Geography, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA 92182-4493, USA ' SDSU School of Social Work, Hepner Hall #1195500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-4119, USA

Abstract: Web geographic information systems (GIS) can be used to support the efforts of service providers in health and social service setting. This article examines the potential of Web GIS to help health and social service providers understand the distribution of their services and their target populations in San Diego County. Agencies completed a user needs questionnaire and participated in user-testing meetings to guide the development of the Web GIS. The result was a two-part Web GIS which allows agencies to: 1) define and update their service locations and boundaries in a password-protected Web GIS Editor; 2) view and analyse health and social services, older population demographics, healthcare clinics, affordable housing, and public transportation in a publicly-accessible Web GIS Viewer. Surveys and interviews conducted with agencies showed satisfaction with the implementation of the system, and the potential of Web GIS in supporting service delivery and outreach.

Keywords: geographic information systems; GIS; Web GIS; information technology; health informatics; senior services; older population; gerontology; social services; healthcare technology; USA; United States; elderly; health services; demographics; healthcare clinics; affordable housing; public transport.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHTM.2015.070520

International Journal of Healthcare Technology and Management, 2015 Vol.15 No.1, pp.58 - 72

Accepted: 30 Oct 2014
Published online: 09 Jul 2015 *

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