08755, Toms River, New Jersey Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 08755, Toms River, New Jersey is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.71 percent of the residents in 08755 has some form of health insurance. 35.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.13 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 08755 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,743 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08755. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,797 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,004 health care providers accessible to residents in 08755, Toms River, New Jersey.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 08755 & Primary Care Availability in Toms River**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 08755, which encompasses a significant portion of Toms River, requires a multifaceted approach. We need to delve into the availability of primary care physicians, analyze physician-to-patient ratios, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, considering the specific context of Toms River, New Jersey.

One of the primary indicators of a healthy community is the availability of primary care physicians. The ratio of physicians to the population is a crucial metric. Ideally, a community should have a sufficient number of primary care doctors to ensure timely access to care for all residents. In Toms River (ZIP code 08755), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. This ratio directly impacts appointment wait times, the ability to establish a long-term relationship with a primary care provider, and overall patient satisfaction. Data from various sources, including the New Jersey Department of Health and publicly available healthcare databases, can provide insights into this ratio. A lower ratio (more patients per physician) suggests a potential strain on the healthcare system.

Beyond the raw numbers, it’s essential to consider the distribution of primary care practices within the area. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of Toms River? Are there enough practices that accept various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? This distribution analysis is crucial for understanding the true accessibility of primary care. The presence of diverse practice types, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric care, is also a positive indicator, catering to the varied healthcare needs of the community.

Identifying standout primary care practices in Toms River is also vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, and a commitment to community health. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventive care, chronic disease management), the use of technology (e.g., electronic health records, patient portals), and the practice's reputation within the community. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are also highly valued.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key element in assessing the health landscape. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Its use can also reduce the burden on traditional healthcare facilities, especially during peak demand. The extent to which primary care practices in Toms River have embraced telemedicine is a crucial indicator. Practices that offer virtual appointments, online prescription refills, and patient portals are demonstrating a commitment to modern healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in Toms River are crucial. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The ability to access these services in a timely manner is essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a positive trend, as it can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health and improve patient outcomes. The existence of community-based mental health programs and support groups is also a valuable asset.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized care facilities, such as urgent care centers and walk-in clinics, can also impact the overall health score. These facilities provide an alternative to the emergency room for non-life-threatening conditions, improving access to care and reducing healthcare costs. Their availability and accessibility are important factors to consider.

Analyzing the health insurance coverage rates within ZIP code 08755 is also crucial. A high rate of uninsured residents can lead to delayed care and poorer health outcomes. The availability of affordable health insurance options, including those offered through the Affordable Care Act, is an important factor.

The overall health score should also consider the demographic makeup of Toms River. Factors like the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors can all impact healthcare needs and access.

To arrive at a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score,' a weighted system is needed. The physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and the presence of standout practices should be assigned weights based on their relative importance. Data from various sources, including healthcare databases, patient surveys, and community health assessments, should be used to quantify these factors.

The final score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing an overall assessment of the health landscape in Toms River (ZIP code 08755). This score can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to inform healthcare policy decisions.

For a visual representation of the health landscape in Toms River, including the distribution of primary care practices, mental health facilities, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the healthcare infrastructure in the area, helping you understand the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in service.