Epidemiological transition : implications for health and health care provision
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Geografiska Annaler. Series B, Human Geography
Publication Date
1-1-1994
Volume
76B
Issue
2
First Page
71
Last Page
89
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
It is important to think strategically in the planning of health care provision for all populations and this is particularly true in rapidly modernizing countries which often have particular needs and limited resources to meet them. This paper discusses the general concept of epidemiological transition and its manifestations in three case studies of Hong Kong, Thailand and Mauritius. The general concept may be useful in anticipating health change particularly in countries in the middle income group as their economic and health status are frequently changing very rapidly. The consequences of epidemiological transition are considered, and the importance of developing awareness of needs of ageing populations for social care as well as medical care. The local context of the transition appears to be crucial to its ensuing implications. The paper concludes with a discussion of the potential and limitations of the concept of epidemiological transition for health planning. It may have utility in strategic thinking, sectoral resource allocation, the development of medical and paramedical education and training, and in determining future needs for essential drugs and equipment.
DOI
10.2307/490591
Print ISSN
04353684
E-ISSN
14680467
Publisher Statement
Copyright © The Swedish Society for Anthropology and Geography
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Phillips, D. R. (1994). Epidemiological transition: Implications for health and health care provision. Geografiska Annaler. Series B, Human Geography, 76B(2), 71-89. doi: 10.2307/490591