We now know that even beyond a person’s genetics or life choices, some people are born into healthier lives than others. Where you live, how far you get in school, how good a job and income you have, and whether you own your home are strong predictors of a person’s health.

For all people to have a fair and just opportunity to live a long and healthy life, we must consider the distribution of these social determinants in our society – and very deliberately seek ways to even out the chances for health and wellbeing. Our collective work to move toward this vision of health equity for all Vermonters requires the active involvement of communities, individuals and partners across the state. We invite you to engage with us as we embark on this five year journey.

Priority Health and Social Conditions

The strategic approach of the State Health Improvement Plan 2019-2023 is built on data in the State Health Assessment 2018, and thanks to the active engagement of individuals and partners across the state. Four broad strategies emerged during the 2017-2018 assessment and improvement planning process to improve outcomes in six priority health and social conditions:

  • Child Development
  • Chronic Disease
  • Mental Health
  • Oral Health
  • Substance Use
  • Social Determinants: Housing, Transportation, Food, Economic Security

Annual action plans will be developed with partners – and progress will be tracked on the State Health Improvement Plan Performance Scorecard.

State Health Improvement Plan 2013-2018

State Health Improvement Goals, Scorecard and Documents

Goal 1: Reduce the prevalence of chronic disease
Goal 2: Reduce the prevalence of individuals who have, or are at risk for, substance abuse or mental illness
Goal 3: Improve childhood immunization rates

State Health Improvement Plan 2013-2018 - This plan focuses on conditions that are preventable and can be addressed by the public health system: chronic diseases, substance abuse and mental illness, and childhood immunization rates.

Appendix A: Vermont Recommended Evidence-Based Strategies - Vermont recommended evidence-based strategies for tobacco cessation, physical activity and healthy eating, substance abuse prevention/intervention, mental health, and childhood immunization.
 
Appendix B:Summary of State Health Improvement Plan Interventions - Interventions to reduce the prevalence of chronic disease, reduce the prevalence of individuals who have, or are at risk for, substance abuse or mental illness, and to improve childhood immunization rates.

If you would like to receive a print copy of the Vermont State Health Assessment, send your request to [email protected]

Last Updated: May 4, 2023