In U.S., Hawaii spends most
per person on public health

Hawaii continues to spend more money on public health per person than any other state – an average of $172.21 for a total of $221,008,697 in 2008, according to a new report by Trust for America's Health. The figures have increased since 2007, when Hawaii led the nation with total spending of nearly $196 million — an average of about $152.66 per person.

Indiana received $81,208,839, which amounted to $12.74 per person — the least in the country — and it had the worst health outcomes.

However, Hawaii's public health is better than many states, with key indicators showing, for example, low rates of adult obesity, adult smoking and new cases of cancer. The total general fund budget for Hawaii's Health Department this fiscal year is $454.5 million, including state, federal and special funds for all services, according to Susan Jackson, deputy director for health.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention averaged $17.60 per person last year with public health spending nationally. State spending averaged $33.71 per person, with a low of $3.37 per person in Nevada.

The nonprofit trust's 2009 report, "Shortchanging America's Health," shows Hawaii rose from 13th place in 2007 for federal funding for disease prevention to eighth place last year. The "State-by-State Look at How Federal Public Health Dollars Are Spent" examines how the recession could result in critical cuts to disease prevention and emergency preparedness programs.

The CDC provides the bulk of federal public health dollars, distributing about 75 percent of its budget to states and other public and private partners to support health programs. The Health Resources and Services Administration and Office of the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response also provide public health money. Hawaii received a total of almost $33 million last year from CDC, averaging $25.55 per capita. Alaska received the most state funding — about $36.22 million for an average of $52.78 per person.