Dean Wykoff Provides Annual Update on Tennessee's Health Status

Dean Randy Wykoff was invited to testify before the Senate Health and Welfare Committee regarding the health of Tennessee citizens. This is the sixth year that the Committee has invited Dr. Wykoff to appear at the beginning of the legislative session, and provide an update on the health status of the State.  Wykoff said Tennessee ranks 44th in overall health according to the United Health Foundation, down from 43rd last year. He noted that in the 26 years the rankings have been issued, Tennessee has never been higher than 41st and never lower than 49th.

Wykoff explained that, of the five primary causes leading to early death, unhealthy behaviors accounts for 40 percent.  Unhealthy behaviors, he said, lead to health outcomes like diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Tennessee ranks 40th or worse for 16 of the 27 measures in health rankings.  It is in the top half nationally for only four of the measures. 

The Committee is chaired by Senator Rusty Crowe, who has served in the Senate for over 25 years, representing District 3 - Washington, Unicoi and Carter Counties. He has frequently been recognized as the legislator of the year by various organizations and agencies.

A video of the Committee’s meeting has been posted; Dr. Wykoff’s presentation begins at 52:11.