News Articles

As we mark 35 years of America’s Health Rankings, the longest-running state-by-state analysis of the nation’s health, I want to thank you for taking the time to consider the important findings in this Annual Report.

Promoting and protecting America’s health is more than a job—it’s a passionate mission for a wide array of health professionals and community members across our country. I am excited to be leading the America’s Health Rankings Advisory Council to be part of the rigorous process of curating public health data and making it accessible so it can be turned into actions that make a difference.

At the American Public Health Association (APHA), our mission remains as clear as it is vital: to improve the health of the public and achieve optimal health for all. Today, we are in an exciting period of progress in many ways, with real advancements in understanding and addressing the social drivers of health as well as mental health and environmental factors.

As a trusted data leader, America’s Health Rankings released a new tool to directly connect public health professionals, community leaders, advocates, policymakers, journalists and others with the reliable data they need to continue identifying gaps and driving solutions.

I’ve always viewed data as one of our most powerful tools — not just for understanding the challenges we face, but for driving real change. Data can guide us in designing programs, securing funding and advocating for policy changes that address disparities, especially in mental health.

Rear Admiral Paul Reed, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), recently invited Dr. Rhonda Randall, Senior Medical Advisor to America’s Health Rankings and Board Member with the United Health Foundation, to appear on HHS’s vlog and reflect on Older Americans Month.

Throughout my career collaborating with everyone from patients to policymakers to advance public health across the United States, one thing has become clear to me: caregiving is fundamental to the human experience. Whether we are caring for a child or an older adult, the act of caregiving is a labor of love that keeps humans connected and healthy.

The findings of the 2024 Senior Report reinforce what Hispanic Federation sees in our communities: the health of older adults is inextricably linked with social factors and their families and communities. Through our partnership with the United Health Foundation, we’re able to directly address the social drivers of health among the Hispanic community by providing targeted educational initiatives, improving access to healthcare resources, and advocating for their social needs.

Enhancing health care for older adults battling cancer requires a deep understanding of the social drivers that shape patient outcomes. Throughout my career, I have witnessed first-hand the profound impact of these factors — from food insecurity to transportation barriers — on our patients' ability to receive and respond to treatment. It’s about more than just medical care; it's about supporting the whole person.