News Articles

As a trusted data leader, America’s Health Rankings released a new tool to directly connect public health professionals, community leaders, advocates, policymakers, journalists and others with the reliable data they need to continue identifying gaps and driving solutions.

I’ve always viewed data as one of our most powerful tools — not just for understanding the challenges we face, but for driving real change. Data can guide us in designing programs, securing funding and advocating for policy changes that address disparities, especially in mental health.

Rear Admiral Paul Reed, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), recently invited Dr. Rhonda Randall, Senior Medical Advisor to America’s Health Rankings and Board Member with the United Health Foundation, to appear on HHS’s vlog and reflect on Older Americans Month.

Throughout my career collaborating with everyone from patients to policymakers to advance public health across the United States, one thing has become clear to me: caregiving is fundamental to the human experience. Whether we are caring for a child or an older adult, the act of caregiving is a labor of love that keeps humans connected and healthy.

The findings of the 2024 Senior Report reinforce what Hispanic Federation sees in our communities: the health of older adults is inextricably linked with social factors and their families and communities. Through our partnership with the United Health Foundation, we’re able to directly address the social drivers of health among the Hispanic community by providing targeted educational initiatives, improving access to healthcare resources, and advocating for their social needs.

Enhancing health care for older adults battling cancer requires a deep understanding of the social drivers that shape patient outcomes. Throughout my career, I have witnessed first-hand the profound impact of these factors — from food insecurity to transportation barriers — on our patients' ability to receive and respond to treatment. It’s about more than just medical care; it's about supporting the whole person.

When I was 12, my dad had a stroke. Spending time with him in nursing homes and care facilities, I recognized a need to improve how we provide care for older adults. Pursuing a career in nursing was the best way for me to help make that change, and I made a commitment to becoming a geriatric provider.

America’s Health Rankings sat down with leaders in the public health space to discuss how access to actionable data helps them to address key health challenges. Glen Mays, PhD, is a Professor of Health Policy and Chair of the Department of Health Systems, Management & Policy at the University of Colorado School of Public Health, focusing his research on healthcare and public health delivery systems.

America’s Health Rankings sat down with leaders in the public health space to discuss how access to actionable data helps them to address key health challenges. Dr. Rhonda Randall serves as the Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President for UnitedHealthcare’s Employer & Individual, where she works to improve health care quality and affordability for the more than 26 million Americans enrolled in employer-sponsored plans.