Burlington, Vermont - December 6, 2011
Vermont is once again considered the healthiest state in the country.
A study by the United Health Foundation ranks Vermont first for the third year in a row. The study measures 23 areas of public health including crime rate, graduation rate and obesity rate among other factors. Vermont Health commissioner Harry Chen says New England usually fares well on this annual survey.
"I think there's really a consciousness in New England about providing healthcare for all of their citizens, about ensuring all of their citizens have safe environments. That people have access to adequate foods and physical activityVermont was tops in 15 of the study's 23 categories, measuring healthy behavior, community and environment, health policies, clinical care, and health outcomes," said Vermont Health Commissioner, Dr. Harry Chen.
New Hampshire ranks as the second healthiest state, while New York comes in at number 18
For the 10th year in a row, Mississippi ranks as the least healthy state.
