The Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Index^SM is a valuable resource. This health metric uses de-identified claims data collected from a commercially insured population to determine the health conditions with the most significant impact on the American population. The data can be drilled down to the state or county level.

According to this index, although major depression (10.1 percent), high cholesterol (8.1 percent), and coronary disease (6.5 percent) are worthy runner ups, hypertension (12.5 percent) takes the cake for Kansans, as well as Americans. The data indicates hypertension is responsible for more adverse health impact than any other health condition. Continue reading → The Doctor’s Note: The condition with the greatest impact on the health of Kansans