Journal of Map & Geography Libraries, Volume 7, Issue 3, 2011

Sarah Cordivano

“GIS is a robust analysis tool capable of contributing to a more comprehensive study of public health issues than was possible using traditional methods. By analyzing the issue of maternity ward closures in Philadelphia, this paper explores the proper methods for utilizing, processing, and analyzing sensitive public health data.

Evolution of density of Philadelphia residential births during the period of closures including open and closed facilities.

“These analytical methods are underutilized in public health research due to widespread unfamiliarity with GIS technology as well as difficulty in accessing accurate data. Understanding and adopting GIS technology is valuable to the assessment, allocation, and delivery of health care services.”

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