CARMEL- Putnam County has been ranked the healthiest county in New York State in the recently released County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. Created by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps uses a data driven approach to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and advance health equity throughout the country. The health of nearly all counties in the nation is compiled into an annual report using county-level measures from a variety of national and state data sources.
“Putnam County is a place where anybody, regardless of their background, has an opportunity to be healthy and successful,” said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community partners, healthcare providers, and residents who have made wellness a priority.”
Interim Commissioner of Health Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD said, “Putnam County has been ranked the number-one healthiest of New York’s 62 counties for the second year in a row. We have ranked within the top five healthiest counties in New York state for the last 10 years. Each year, upon release of this report, staff at the Putnam County Department of Health conduct a full review of the findings with additional analysis of Putnam’s performance over time, both of which are vital to ensure public health program planning aligns with the needs of our community.”
An area in which Putnam has been improving is the percentage of Medicare enrollees receiving an annual flu shot. For many years, the health department has been offering at least three public seasonal flu clinics where Medicare enrollees can receive a flu shot at no cost. To improve access to care and health equity among Putnam’s seniors, flu clinics are also offered at each of the Senior Centers in the County.
For more information about public health, County Executive Byrne encourages residents to visit the county’s website at www.putnamcountyny.com.
