Indiana’s Health: Where We Stand — and How We Can Move Up Together

If you’ve ever wondered how Indiana compares to other states in overall health, you’re not alone. As a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice rooted right here in Indiana, we care deeply about the wellbeing of Hoosiers — and understanding the bigger picture helps all of us make smarter, more hopeful choices.

Where Indiana Ranks Nationally

Indiana typically ranks in the mid-30s nationally on overall health scorecards. In plain terms, that places us in the lower third of U.S. states for broad health outcomes.

That can feel discouraging — but it’s also a clear call to action, and there are areas where we’re improving.

Why Indiana’s Ranking Looks This Way

Health rankings combine a lot of different measures. In Indiana, several factors repeatedly pull down our overall standing.

1. Chronic disease and obesity trends

Indiana continues to face higher-than-average rates of obesity and conditions tied to it, like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. These are long-term issues that build over years, not weeks.

2. Smoking and lung health

Indiana has historically had higher smoking rates than many states, and tobacco-related illness remains a major concern. Lung health problems, including preventable cancers, are a major driver of poor outcomes — which makes prevention and early detection especially important for Hoosiers.

3. Mental health and substance stress

Like much of the Midwest, Indiana has wrestled with mental health access, addiction, and community stressors. Some indicators have improved in recent years, but the strain remains real for many families.

4. Big differences by county

Indiana isn’t one story — it’s many. Some counties do relatively well, while others struggle with shorter life expectancy and fewer resources. These gaps matter because “state health” is really an average of local realities.

The Good News: Indiana Has Real Strengths

Rankings don’t tell the whole story. Indiana also has important advantages to build on:

• Strong community networks and local pride

• Improving public health initiatives

• Many areas with excellent hospital systems and specialty care

• Growing awareness of prevention and lifestyle medicine
  

Momentum matters. A state can climb — and it starts in neighborhoods and families.

What You Can Do (Without Overhauling Your Whole Life)

We’re big believers in small changes done consistently. If you’re looking for a starting point, consider these proven, high-impact basics:

Move a little more

Even 15–20 minutes of walking most days can measurably improve blood pressure, mood, insulin sensitivity, and long-term heart risk.

Check in on sleep

Sleep is not a luxury. Poor sleep increases cravings, stress hormones, blood sugar instability, and depression risk.

Know your numbers

Blood pressure, A1c (blood sugar), cholesterol, and weight trends are like a dashboard — they help you steer earlier rather than later.

If you smoke, let’s talk

Stopping smoking is one of the most powerful health upgrades possible at any age. And you don’t have to do it alone.

Don’t ignore mental health

Persistent stress, anxiety, or low mood are medical issues, not character flaws. Support works — and it’s worth seeking.

How DPC/Concierge Medicine Helps Hoosiers Get Healthier

One reason Indiana struggles nationally is that many people don’t get enough consistent preventive care. Traditional systems often push visits into rushed, problem-only appointments.

DPC flips that script:

• More time with your doctor

• Easier access for questions early

• Prevention that actually fits your life

• A relationship that sees patterns over time
  

Health doesn’t change because of one “perfect” visit. It changes because someone walks with you over time — checking in, adjusting the plan, and catching trouble early.

A Note of Hope

Indiana’s ranking is not destiny. It’s a snapshot. And snapshots can change.

If you’d like help creating a realistic plan for your health — whether that’s weight, energy, stress, blood pressure, diabetes prevention, or quitting smoking — we’d be honored to partner with you.

Contact us. Call/text us anytime or schedule a visit. Let’s move Indiana upward, one patient at a time.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or personalized care. Always seek the guidance of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health goals. Never disregard or delay medical care because of something you read here. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.