Health Rankings Good for Economic Well-Being

Posted by on April 11, 2011

A few weeks ago, the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation released a report, County Health Rankings, which evaluated the health of counties in each state across the nation.  In yet another study, Marquette County was ranked near the top of Michigan’s 82 counties, coming in 10th.  (Starting to notice a trend?)
Health issues such as alcohol and tobacco use, diet and exercise, unsafe sex practices, education levels, employment rates, income, community safety, quality and access to health care and overall environmental quality were all factors of the study.
According to County Health Rankings, the study shows that where we live is of importance to our health.  The rankings also demonstrate that all sectors, from public health and health care, to business, education and government must collaborate to create programs and policies which help people lead healthier lives. 
So, why is this positive rank significant to the economic development of Marquette County?  Well, it’s important because it gives site consultants, as well as potential businesses and residents, an indication of our area’s quality of life.  Overall, community health is a key factor in measuring productivity, economic well-being and workforce adequacy; all of which contribute to the economic and community prosperity of a region.
County health rankings are used by business and industry to determine appropriate locations for expansions, relocations and product markets. Just as education and crime are critical factors in evaluating communities, the overall health of a community can quickly qualify or disqualify a community or region for economic development. For more information, visit the County Health Rankings Web site at www.countyhealthrankings.org/michigan/marquette or contact the Marquette County Health Department at 475-9977. 
The County Health Rankings show that where we live is significant to our physical health, and how it correlates to the economic well-being of our region.  With Marquette County ranked in yet another Top 10, I’d say we’re pretty economically fit!  
For more information on the Lake Superior Community Partnership and economic development call 226-9658 or visit our Web site, www.marquette.org.   While your there, sign up for our RSS feed to get email updates on the latest news from the LSCP!
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