Clay County Health Data
Clay County, Tennessee
Health Score
20/100
Below Avg
Life Expectancy
71.9 yr
Uninsured Rate
12.6%
Health Statistics
Life Expectancy
71.9 yr
State avg 72.4 yr
National avg 77.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
12.6%
State avg 11.9%
National avg 9%
Primary Care Providers
40
per 100K population
National avg 82
Mental Health Providers
N/A
per 100K population
Data Story
About Health in Clay County, Tennessee
Clay's life expectancy trails the nation
At 71.9 years, Clay County residents live 4.5 years less than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. The county's 24.8% poor or fair health rate—the highest among these eight counties—far exceeds the national average of 17%, indicating widespread chronic disease and health vulnerability. Clay faces the steepest health challenges of any county in this group.
Below Tennessee's baseline
Clay's 71.9-year life expectancy trails Tennessee's state average of 72.4 years by 0.5 years, placing it firmly in the lower half of the state's counties. Its 12.6% uninsured rate slightly exceeds the state average of 11.9%, and combined with the highest poor/fair health rate in this group (24.8%), suggests that health disparities extend beyond insurance. Socioeconomic factors likely drive both outcomes.
Among the most challenged counties
Clay's 71.9-year life expectancy ranks below most neighbors, better only than Cocke (68.0) but trailing Carroll, Claiborne, Coffee, and others. At 24.8% poor or fair health, Clay reports the worst health status among all eight counties studied. With 40 primary care providers per 100K and limited data on mental health providers, the county's health infrastructure appears under-resourced for its needs.
Higher uninsured rate, sparse data
Clay's 12.6% uninsured rate exceeds state average, and at 40 primary care providers per 100K, access is basic but potentially strained. Data on mental health providers is unavailable, making it impossible to assess behavioral health capacity. Given the county's highest poor/fair health rate (24.8%), comprehensive data and resource assessment are urgent priorities.
Start with coverage, seek support
Clay residents should visit healthcare.gov or contact TennCare immediately—the county's 12.6% uninsured rate is above average and each uninsured person misses preventive care. If you're struggling with health, poverty, or mental health challenges, primary care providers can refer you to community resources, financial assistance, and behavioral health services. Getting covered is the first step.
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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.