The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) has released its 2025 Community Health Assessment (CHA), providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s health and well-being. This assessment combines quantitative data with input from over 3,400 residents to examine how social factors, lived experiences, and built environments influence health outcomes.
Identified Priority Health Issues
The CHA highlights five primary health concerns affecting Milwaukee residents:
- Chronic Disease: Conditions such as diabetes and heart disease continue to impact a significant portion of the population.
- Maternal and Child Health: Disparities in infant mortality rates and access to prenatal care remain pressing issues.
- Mental Health: The prevalence of mental health disorders underscores the need for accessible mental health services.
- Substance Use: Substance abuse, including opioid addiction, poses challenges for individuals and families.
- Violence and Injury: Incidents of violence contribute to premature death and disability, affecting community safety and well-being.
Community Health Improvement Plan: MKE Elevate
In response to the CHA findings, MHD has developed the MKE Elevate Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) for 2023-2028. This plan focuses on four priority areas:
- Racism and Health Equity: Addressing systemic inequities to ensure all residents have equal opportunities for health.
- Maternal and Child Health: Enhancing support systems for mothers and children to improve health outcomes.
- Healthy Built Environment: Creating spaces that promote physical activity and access to nutritious foods.
- Safe and Supportive Communities: Fostering environments where residents feel secure and supported.
The overarching vision of MKE Elevate is to create a Milwaukee where all people thrive in safe, healthy, and equitable neighborhoods.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
To ensure the success of these initiatives, MHD emphasizes the importance of community involvement. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming events and provide feedback to help shape the implementation of the CHIP. By working together, Milwaukee aims to address these health challenges and build a healthier future for all.