In this year’s American Health Rankings Annual Report, an annual check-up of our nation’s health released by the United Health Foundation, Connecticut ranks No. 6 in overall health among all 50 states in 2015. This marks the 23rd consecutive year the state has ranked among the nation’s top 10 healthiest states.
As medical director of UnitedHealthcare of Connecticut, I always look forward to the America’s Health Rankings Annual Report because it offers an overview of where we stand in health both as a nation and relative to our peer states. The report offers a reflection of Connecticut’s health that is at once sobering and encouraging.
According to the report Connecticut is a national leader is several areas of health and wellness, ranking in the national top 10 on 18 of 34 measures. Particular strengths include: limiting cancer deaths (No. 7) and infectious disease (No. 3); number of available primary care physicians (No. 6) and dentists (No. 5); and rate of insured residents (No. 6).
On the other hand, Connecticut still has work to do in several areas. In the past year drug deaths in our state increased 19 percent. Excessive drinking remains high; and the disparity in Connecticut residents’ health status based on their education levels is one of the highest in the nation.
Measuring and monitoring our nation’s health has never been more important, and the results of this year’s America’s Health Rankings Annual Report show how far we’ve come in the last 26 years – and how far we still have to go as a country.
This year’s data show that as a nation, Americans are smoking less and living less sedentary lifestyles; however, our country is facing complex health challenges that threaten Americans’ health and quality of life. Many of Connecticut’s aforementioned health challenges can be seen across the country. Obesity and diabetes are at all-time highs, and rates of drug deaths – including illegal and prescription drug abuse – and children living in poverty are on the rise.
Understanding trends in health and wellness makes it clear where we need to focus our resources and attention. Indeed, 23 consecutive years among the country’s healthiest states is a model of consistency in which we should take pride. However, we must remain diligent and committed to improvement.
In 2016, America’s Health Rankings will publish new reports that will enable us to track these challenges more closely – so that they can be addressed more effectively. These include new reports on the health of select populations such as mothers and children, and our nation’s veterans, as well as “spotlight” reports on key public health topics. The goal is to offer more information to help improve public health.
When it comes to the future of Connecticut’s health, and America’s health as a whole, we are all in it together. Let’s commit now to making the changes necessary to ensure that we build a healthier tomorrow, today.
Dr. Donald Stangler is the medical director of UnitedHealthcare of Connecticut.
