Report: Minnesota Ranks 6th In Overall Health

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minnesota has dropped from third to sixth in overall health, according to the latest edition of America's Health Rankings. However, the state still leads the nation in lowest rate of cardiovascular deaths.

The national comparative health index shows that Minnesota ranks second in fewest days of poor physical health, second in fewest years lost due to premature death per 100,000 people. That state also ranks fourth among all states for health insurance coverage and for fewest days of poor mental health.

The report also highlights areas that present ongoing challenges for the state, including persistent disparities in health status among racial groups, high percentage of adults engaging in binge drinking (Minnesota ranks 46th) and low per capita public health investment (44th).

"Minnesota continues to perform well in most measures of public health, but we've slipped in some key areas and we are still seeing significant racial disparities in health status," Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Ed Ehlinger said. "We need to continue our work to address health disparities as well as the other issues highlighted in the report."

To describe health and wellness in each state, the health ranking measures behavior, community and environment, public and health policies, clinical care and health outcomes.