Milwaukee’s 2025 Community Health Assessment (CHA) offers a comprehensive look at the city’s health landscape, identifying five priority issues: chronic disease, maternal and child health, mental health, substance use, and violence and injury. This assessment, informed by data and input from over 3,400 residents, underscores the complex factors influencing health outcomes in our community.
Key Findings from the Assessment
The CHA reveals that injury and violence are leading causes of premature death and disability in Milwaukee. Additionally, disparities in education, housing, infant mortality rates, and life expectancy have been documented, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these pressing concerns.
Community-Driven Initiatives
In response to the CHA, the Milwaukee Health Department has launched MKE Elevate, a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) that focuses on community-identified priorities. The mission of MKE Elevate is to support a Milwaukee where all people thrive in safe, healthy, and equitable neighborhoods. The plan emphasizes building partnerships, aligning strategies, and fostering collective advocacy to address the identified health issues.
Engaging the Community
Community involvement is central to these initiatives. Surveys conducted as part of MKE Elevate have highlighted top concerns among residents, including access to healthy foods, neighborhood safety, mental health services, substance use, and healthcare accessibility. This feedback is instrumental in shaping policies and programs that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.
Moving Forward
Addressing Milwaukee’s health challenges requires a collaborative approach that involves residents, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations. By working together and focusing on the priorities identified in the CHA and MKE Elevate, we can create a healthier and more equitable Milwaukee for all.