08865, Phillipsburg, New Jersey Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 08865, Phillipsburg, New Jersey is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.17 percent of the residents in 08865 has some form of health insurance. 37.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.58 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 08865 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,032 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08865. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,414 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 385 health care providers accessible to residents in 08865, Phillipsburg, New Jersey.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Phillipsburg, NJ (ZIP Code 08865)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Phillipsburg, New Jersey (ZIP code 08865), necessitates a comprehensive analysis, moving beyond simple metrics to encompass the nuances of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of innovative healthcare practices, and the accessibility of crucial mental health resources. This analysis will culminate in an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, providing a snapshot of the community's healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any healthy community rests upon the availability of accessible primary care. Assessing this in Phillipsburg requires examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population. While publicly available data provides a starting point, obtaining precise, up-to-the-minute figures can be challenging. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the New Jersey Department of Health will be consulted to ascertain the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. A low ratio, however, doesn't automatically equate to poor health; it simply signals a potential challenge that requires further investigation.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Phillipsburg will be analyzed in comparison to state and national averages. A ratio significantly below the average could indicate a potential shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services. The analysis will also consider the geographic distribution of PCPs within the zip code, identifying areas that may be underserved.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and innovation within primary care practices significantly impact the community's health. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer insights into patient satisfaction, physician communication, and the overall patient experience. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is another crucial indicator. Practices utilizing EHRs generally have more efficient workflows and can facilitate better coordination of care. Patient portals empower patients to access their medical information, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians, fostering a more engaged and informed patient population.

Telemedicine adoption is a key indicator of a forward-thinking healthcare system. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues, limited transportation options, or those living in geographically isolated areas. The analysis will assess the availability of telehealth services within the practices in Phillipsburg, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health and well-being. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors) within the zip code and surrounding areas. This includes assessing the number of providers per capita and identifying any potential shortages. The analysis will also consider the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, such as integrated behavioral health services, which can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services will be evaluated. The analysis will also explore the accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of services for diverse populations. A robust mental health infrastructure is critical for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health issues and promoting overall community well-being.

Another factor to consider is the demographics of the population in 08865. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and ethnic composition of the community influence healthcare needs and access. The analysis will consider these factors, identifying any disparities in healthcare access or outcomes. For example, a large elderly population may require increased access to geriatric care, while a low-income population may face challenges related to insurance coverage and transportation.

The presence of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology, will also be assessed. While primary care is the cornerstone of a healthy community, access to specialized care is essential for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues. The analysis will identify the availability of these specialists within the zip code and surrounding areas, considering factors such as wait times and insurance acceptance.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant component, with a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) contributing positively to the score. The presence of innovative practices, including EHR adoption and telemedicine services, will also be weighted positively. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources will be a crucial factor, with a robust mental health infrastructure contributing significantly to the score. Finally, the demographics of the population will be considered, acknowledging any disparities in healthcare access or outcomes.

The final score will be presented on a scale, providing a clear and concise assessment of the overall health landscape in Phillipsburg, NJ (08865). This score, along with the detailed analysis, will provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. It can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, inform strategic planning, and guide efforts to improve healthcare access and outcomes.

For a more in-depth, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Phillipsburg, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource distribution, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.