Breathitt County Health Data
Breathitt County, Kentucky
Health Score
29/100
Below Avg
Life Expectancy
67.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
6.7%
Health Statistics
Life Expectancy
67.5 yr
State avg 72.2 yr
National avg 77.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
6.7%
State avg 7.0%
National avg 9%
Primary Care Providers
44
per 100K population
National avg 82
Mental Health Providers
239
per 100K population
National avg 350
Data Story
About Health in Breathitt County, Kentucky
Significant health crisis in place
Breathitt County residents live an average of just 67.5 years—almost 9 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Over 26.8% of adults report poor or fair health, the highest rate in this regional analysis. These figures mark Breathitt County as one of Kentucky's most health-challenged communities.
Among Kentucky's worst outcomes
At 67.5 years, Breathitt County's life expectancy is 4.7 years below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years, placing it among the state's lowest-ranked counties. Its 26.8% poor/fair health rate is the highest in this analysis, signaling significant health disparities. Urgent intervention is needed to reverse these trends.
Severe health disadvantage
Breathitt County's 67.5-year life expectancy trails all regional peers, including Bourbon (73.8) and even Bracken (71.5). Its 26.8% poor/fair health rate exceeds every other county analyzed, reflecting compounded challenges. The county provides 44 primary care and 239 mental health providers per 100,000—moderate access that cannot offset broader health crises.
Insurance gaps amid crisis
Breathitt County's uninsured rate of 6.7% is below state average, but many residents struggle with affordability and access even when insured. With 44 primary care providers per 100,000, the county faces both coverage and capacity challenges that limit everyday healthcare availability.
Take action on coverage now
Breathitt County faces a health crisis requiring immediate action—if you're among the 6.7% without insurance, enroll in Medicaid or a marketplace plan today. Once covered, connect with local health clinics and community resources to address the underlying health challenges facing your family.
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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.