1. Disparities in health rankings among local counties
2. Above average health rankings in local counties.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : MANKATO — Fresh health rankings unveiled this year spotlight disparities among counties in south-central Minnesota, though all nine surpass national averages in key metrics. The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, backed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, recently released its annual County Health Rankings and Roadmaps data, which evaluates health outcomes and factors. Health outcomes gauge the length and quality of life, while health factors forecast future health trends.
Nicollet County emerged as the top performer in south-central Minnesota, securing the 12th spot out of 87 counties in health outcomes and the ninth spot in health factors. Meanwhile, Blue Earth County clinched the 33rd and 18th positions in the same categories, respectively.
On the other end of the spectrum, Watonwan County landed the lowest health factors ranking in the region, placing 78th. Elevated uninsured, smoking, and obesity rates contributed to this low standing, although it secured the 36th spot in actual health outcomes. Faribault County found itself at the bottom in health outcomes, ranking 60th. This translated to a life expectancy of 78.7 years, two years shorter than Nicollet County’s 80.7 years. Faribault County also secured the 46th spot in health factors.
Of note, Faribault County and Martin County, which ranked 20th and 57th in the metrics, share a health and human services department. According to Chera Sevcik, executive director, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated health concerns identified as priority areas in community assessments. Substance use and mental health emerged as focus areas following assessments conducted in 2019 and 2022, and the agency continues to collaborate with community partners to address these issues.
“With the pandemic emergency response calming down, we’re able to dedicate resources back to working on some of those priority issues that may have worsened over time,” Sevcik remarked. The pandemic heightened the visibility of public health work, with many residents seeking case updates, tests, vaccines, and general information during the rapidly evolving situation. Despite the shift away from large-scale COVID-19 vaccination clinics, public health agencies remain committed to tackling community issues.
The above-average ratings of area counties compared to national averages underscore the relatively healthy status of Minnesota in relation to other states. Minnesotans enjoy longer lifespans, are more physically active, and have greater access to physicians than the national average. The latest data also highlighted two key attributes linked to healthier counties: broadband and public library access. Investing in avenues for civic engagement and information dissemination plays a crucial role in promoting community well-being.
Bethany Rogerson, co-director of the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, emphasized the importance of enhancing civic health through active participation. “Improving civic health requires action,” Rogerson stated in a release. “We can invest in ways for people to connect, value their participation, and, ultimately, influence how and whether we thrive. We can and should all have a say in our communities’ futures.”
To view your county’s rankings, visit countyhealthrankings.org/health-data. Stay updated by following Brian Arola @BrianArola..
“Health rankings disparities among local counties”
“Health rankings disparities above average nationally”.
