Smith County Health Data
Smith County, Mississippi
Health Score
20/100
Below Avg
Life Expectancy
72.8 yr
Uninsured Rate
13.8%
Health Statistics
Life Expectancy
72.8 yr
State avg 70.9 yr
National avg 77.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
13.8%
State avg 13.9%
National avg 9%
Primary Care Providers
7
per 100K population
National avg 82
Mental Health Providers
14
per 100K population
National avg 350
Data Story
About Health in Smith County, Mississippi
Smith County lives slightly above the curve
At 72.8 years, Smith County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by a notable gap, reflecting broader health challenges across Mississippi. The county's 25.1% poor or fair health rate sits well above the national average of roughly 15%, indicating significant room for improvement in chronic disease management and preventive care.
Smith County ranks above Mississippi average
Smith County's 72.8-year life expectancy outpaces Mississippi's state average of 70.9 years by nearly two years, placing it in the healthier tier of Mississippi counties. This advantage suggests better disease management or healthier lifestyle patterns compared to many rural peer counties.
Better off than Sunflower or Tunica
Smith County's 72.8-year life expectancy outperforms Sunflower County (67.2 years) and Tunica County (66.6 years), though it lags behind Stone County (71.5 years) and Tippah County (71.5 years). With only 7 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Smith County faces a significant provider shortage compared to Stone County's 32 per 100,000.
Low provider access offsets good insurance rates
Smith County's 13.8% uninsured rate matches Mississippi's state average, providing insurance coverage for nearly 9 in 10 residents—but only 7 primary care providers per 100,000 means finding that first appointment requires persistence. Mental health support is similarly stretched, with just 14 providers per 100,000 residents struggling to meet demand.
Check your coverage options today
With 13.8% of Smith County residents uninsured, exploring enrollment through Mississippi's health insurance marketplace or Medicaid expansion could improve your access to those limited primary care spots. Contact local health departments or visit HealthCare.gov to learn about plans that fit your budget and health needs.
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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.