HEALTH OUTCOMES

High rates of premature death in Washington (17,400 potential life lost per 100,000) and St. Helena (16,700) indicate severe health challenges and potential systemic healthcare deficiencies. Both of these parishes exceed the Louisiana state average (11,500) and are double the national rate (8,000). Contributing factors may include limited healthcare access, higher uninsured rates, and potentially elevated rates of chronic diseases or accidental deaths.

Injury-related deaths are particularly high in Washington (166 per 100,000) and St. Helena (155 per 100,000), well above the state (106) and national (80) rates. High injury mortality may be linked to factors like road safety issues, workplace hazards, or limited emergency response capabilities in rural areas.