Feature
Watch the Video, Earn the Credits
Learn how to improve care transitions and prevent avoidable hospital readmissions, and pick up nursing and medical education con-ed credits.
Read more
Our health is largely influenced by the choices we make for ourselves and our families. But the conditions in the communities where Americans live, learn, work and play also play an important role in people's ability to make those healthy choices. Research shows that communities with smoke-free air laws, access to healthy foods, quality affordable housing, good schools and safe places to play are healthier than those that don't. In fact, the economic, social and physical environments that surround us can have a much greater impact on our health than how often we go to the doctor's office.
- Despite spending $2.5 trillion annually on health care, Americans aren’t as healthy as they should be.
- Health disparities caused by inequalities in education, employment, socioeconomic status, housing, community resources and transportation pose significant obstacles to improving the nation’s overall health.
- Targeted investments in our communitiescan help overcome these obstacles so that more Americans can lead healthy and productive lives.
Health Policy Snapshot
Two-page briefs providing insight and analysis on key issues affecting health and health care in the United States.
View all