It has been reported many times how strong the Texas economy is. But how strong is Texas healthcare? We are blessed in Texas to rank 15th in the nation with an unemployment rate of 5.1 percent. We also created more than 1.9 million jobs over the last decade and would be the 13th largest economy in the world if Texas was a nation. These are impressive numbers and we are fortunate for such robust economic growth.

But just how healthy are we? Let’s count the numbers. According to America’s Health Rankings:
1. Texas ranks 42 out of 50 states in income disparity (Gini coefficient). We know that socio-economic status, personal income and poverty are determinants of health. Income disparity is associated with poorer health.

2. Texas ranks number 37 out of 50 states with children living in poverty. Studies show that poverty creates higher rates of chronic illness and shorter life expectancy. Approximately 30 percent of Dallas county children live in poverty.



3. Texas ranks 32 out of 50 states in obesity rates, an increasingly serious issue contributing to heart problems, diabetes, stroke and cancer. Many of our obese population live in poverty within “food deserts,” where healthy food sources are not available.

4. Texas has more than six million uninsured residents. Since our state has a low unemployment rate, the majority of the uninsured are the working poor. Even though they are employed, many cannot afford to purchase health insurance and do not qualify for Medicaid coverage. In fact, more than one million Texans do not qualify for any coverage and fall into a “coverage gap,”impacting prevention, wellness and medical treatment.

The time has come for Texas to solve this economic healthcare paradox by establishing a doctrine based on compassion, fiscal responsibility and efficient management. Stakeholders must work diligently to find Texas answers for these serious Texas problems.