What does a number of people per doctor mean?

The number of people per doctor refers to the ratio of the population to the number of physicians in a given area. It provides an indication of the availability and accessibility of healthcare services within that region. A higher number of people per doctor suggests that there are fewer doctors relative to the population, which may result in longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and increased workload for healthcare professionals. Conversely, a lower number of people per doctor indicates a better ratio, potentially leading to shorter waiting times, more individualized attention from healthcare providers, and improved healthcare outcomes. It is an essential metric used in healthcare planning and policy-making to ensure adequate resources and equitable distribution of healthcare services across different regions.