Rush County Health Data
Rush County, Kansas
Health Score
37/100
Below Avg
Life Expectancy
69.0 yr
Uninsured Rate
11.5%
Health Statistics
Life Expectancy
69.0 yr
State avg 75.4 yr
National avg 77.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
11.5%
State avg 11.5%
National avg 9%
Primary Care Providers
34
per 100K population
National avg 82
Mental Health Providers
N/A
per 100K population
Data Story
About Health in Rush County, Kansas
Rush County faces serious health gaps
At 69.0 years, Rush County's life expectancy is 7.4 years below the national average of 76.4 years—among the lowest in Kansas. One in six residents (16.2%) report poor or fair health, mirroring national averages but trailing healthier counties. This significant gap reflects deeper structural healthcare and lifestyle challenges.
Lowest life expectancy in Kansas
Rush County ranks last statewide with a 69.0-year life expectancy, trailing Kansas's 75.4-year average by 6.4 years. This gap represents one of the widest disparities in the state and demands urgent attention. The county faces unique health barriers requiring targeted community-level interventions.
Severe disadvantage versus nearby counties
Rush County residents live 10.7 years less than Riley County (79.7 years) and roughly 6 years less than Rooks County (75.5 years). Even Russell County (74.8 years) outpaces Rush by nearly 6 years—a dramatic disparity over just a few counties. This gap points to concentrated barriers in primary care, mental health, and prevention.
Severe provider shortage limits care
Rush County has just 34 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, less than half the state average. Mental health provider data is unavailable, but regional indicators suggest severe shortages in specialty care. At 11.5% uninsured, the county matches the state rate, yet limited provider capacity means uninsured residents have few options.
Coverage is the first step
Rush County's life expectancy crisis demands action starting with insurance coverage. If you're uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov or contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment immediately—Medicaid expansion and marketplace subsidies may apply to you. Coverage alone won't close the health gap, but it's an essential foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Data Sources
Health data sourced from the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.
Data is informational only. Not medical or health advice. Coverage varies by county and reporting year.