NET Health Responds to County Health Rankings

TYLER — The Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) and Smith County received some encouraging news about residents’ health in a national report Wednesday, though it also shows that much more needs to be done in some vital areas. That’s according to a NET Health news release, also issued Wednesday. The release of the sixth annual County Health Rankings, by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (UWPHI), shows where we live matters to our health, according to NET Health officials.

In this study, Smith County ranked 79 out of 237 counties for Health Outcomes – Today’s Health, and a rank of 32 out of 237 in Health Factors – Tomorrow’s Health. The rankings allow communities to see how people from their county compare to others on a range of factors from education and housing to transportation and community safety, and offer ways to take action to promote lifelong health.

“Change begins by bringing people from all walks of life together – from education, transportation, public health, business, and other sectors – these rankings can help community leaders and citizens work together in new and creative ways to build a culture of health.” says George Roberts, chief executive officer of NET Health.

Roberts says the rankings illustrate in a powerful way that where you live can influence how well and how long you live. According to Roberts, the rankings show much of our health is connected to where we live, learn, work, and play. Roberts says Fit City’s Lighten Up East Texas & 5210 Goes to School, the NET Health Center for Healthy Living, quality healthcare systems, extensive parks, and strong cancer screening programs are examples of how Smith County is taking action to improve health.

“While we have taken important steps to improve the health of our community, there is more we can do to help our residents lead healthier lives,” says Roberts. “Because much of what affects our health happens beyond medical care, the Rankings underscore how important it is to build a culture of health where getting healthy, staying healthy, and making sure our kids grow up healthy are top priorities.” Visit http://www.countyhealthrankings.org or http://www.healthyeasttx.org for more information.