Impact of medical resources in residential area on unmet healthcare needs: Findings from a multi-level analysis of Korean nationwide data

Our findings demonstrate that living in small cities or rural areas with insufficient medical resources, as well as having a low income level even in an area with sufficient medical services, significantly increases individuals' unmet healthcare needs. This suggests then need for equitable distribution medical resources across regions and public health support policies that do not limit access to medical care for people with poor socioeconomic status.