HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen recently honored Chester and Montgomery counties for their achievement in being named among the top 100 healthiest communities in the United States, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Healthiest Communities rankings.
“Congratulations to Chester and Montgomery counties for being among the top 100 healthiest communities in the nation,” said Secretary Bogen. “We are fortunate that Pennsylvania’s new bipartisan budget makes significant investments in key factors to help make our communities, and Pennsylvanians, healthier.”
The 2024 Healthiest Communities rankings evaluated approximately 2,800 communities nationwide. The analysis considers 92 health and health-related metrics to determine how effectively counties serve their residents across 10 main categories: Community Vitality, Economy, Education, Environment, Equity, Food & Nutrition, Population Health, Housing, Infrastructure, and Public Safety. Pennsylvania had several counties featured in the top 500, including Adams (477), Allegheny (321), Bucks (188), Butler (250), Centre (478), Chester (84), Cumberland (124), Delaware (442), Montgomery (66), Montour (325), Washington (376), and Westmoreland (476).
“Many factors and strategies contribute to improving the health of residents and their communities,” said Secretary Bogen. “The new state budget provides funding for many initiatives that strengthen opportunities toward achieving the vision of a healthy Pennsylvania for all.”
To compile these rankings, U.S. News partnered with the University of Missouri Extension Center for Applied Research and Engagement Systems (CARES), a research institution known for community health assessment. The metrics used in this analysis were sourced from respected institutions such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The recognition of Chester and Montgomery counties highlights the positive impact of strategic health initiatives and community investments. These efforts include promoting access to healthcare, supporting education, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic development. By advancing these areas, the counties have demonstrated a commitment to creating healthier, more equitable communities.
Pennsylvania’s new budget continues to support these goals, providing funding for critical health and wellness programs that address the diverse needs of its residents. This investment is crucial for maintaining the momentum and ensuring that all communities across the state have the resources necessary to thrive.
The achievement of Chester and Montgomery counties serves as a model for other regions striving to improve public health and well-being. By focusing on comprehensive strategies and leveraging state and federal resources, Pennsylvania aims to enhance the quality of life for all its residents.
As the state moves forward, continued collaboration between government entities, healthcare providers, and community organizations will be essential to sustaining and building upon these successes. The recognition by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in making Pennsylvania a healthier place to live.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.