The Community Health Data Base’s 13^th Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey will be conducted this spring.   The Household Health Survey is a major regional telephone survey examining the health, well being and healthcare experiences of residents of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties.  This survey is a unique population-based resource for Southeastern Pennsylvania, and is used by more than 350 non-profits, hospitals, academic institutions, government agencies and other organizations.  It is used to plan and sustain public health initiatives, to advocate for programs that support health, and to better understand the factors that influence the health of adults and children throughout our region.

The first Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey was conducted in 1983, and since 1994 the survey has been conducted every two years across the five-county region.   While every individual’s responses are kept confidential, the data are used together to examine patterns and trends in neighborhoods and communities across Southeastern Pennsylvania.  Best of all, participating in the survey is free.

Special Features of the 2012 Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey

One in five respondents will be reached on their cell phones

Historically, most telephone surveys have been conducted with individuals on landline telephones, however, a growing population of adults are only reachable by cellular phones.  Beginning in 2008, the Community Health Data Base has been contacting respondents on cell phones, and we’re proud to announce that in this wave, 20% of participants will be reached on cell phones.  Increasing our cell phone sample ensures that we capture the views and experiences of all of our neighbors.

Focus on Health Care and Access to Health Care

Each survey year, the Community Health Data Base staff works with our network of partners to determine which topics are most important to our region.  In 2012, as health care reform continues to roll out, our focus is on understanding access to care and the health care experiences of adults and children in communities throughout the region.   The 2012 survey will examine health insurance coverage and highlight the experiences of the uninsured.  Additionally, the survey data will describe health care experiences. 

Does lack of transportation keep Southeastern Pennsylvanians from getting medical care? 

Can they afford their healthcare visits and prescriptions? 

What types of places do they go to for medical care?

These questions and more are among the over 200 that will be included in the survey, which will continue to address screenings, diagnoses, neighborhood concerns, safety, health behaviors and more.