Get ready for a full County Health Rankings release complete with new measures, a focus on closing health disparities and fresh ways to learn about what drives health and opportunities for all to live long and well.
While we know that health is more than health care, access to health care continues to be an important component in community health. Health insurance is a key part of ensuring access to care. Nationally, over 47 million nonelderly were uninsured in 2012. But how will the Affordable Care Act improve access to health care and help to improve community health?
Tobacco use and excessive drinking are both leading causes of preventable death in the United States. Over 20% or the US adult population currently smokes cigarettes and 15% of adults drink excessively. The burden of tobacco use and alcohol are taking a large toll on the health of our local communities throughout the United States.