A strong Missouri workforce starts with health

Column by Rob Jones, director of Integrated Marketing Communications, University of Missouri Extension; Sarah Davis, maternal health specialist, MU College of Health Sciences; Jollyn Tyryfter, assistant extension professor in nutrition and health education, MU College of Health Sciences; Chiquita Chanay, education director, Community Health Engagement and Outreach, MU Extension; Kate Trout, director, MU Center for Health Policy; Rob Russell, senior program director, MU Extension Business & Communities.

On a weekday morning in communities across Missouri, the economy comes to life in familiar ways. A restaurant opens its doors. A farmer loads a truck. A nurse begins a shift. A teacher greets students in the hallway.

Each of those moments depends on something we do not always think about. They depend on people being healthy enough to show up.

Health is often framed as a personal responsibility or a medical issue. It is also closely tied to the economy. Healthy people are more likely to work, support their families and contribute to their communities.

At the same time, health challenges can limit economic participation. Roughly one in 20 working age Missourians aren’t working due to disability or illness.

This underscores why it’s important to treat health as an economic issue for the state.

Economic costs of poor health

The economic consequences of poor health are significant. Chronic disease, mental health challenges and other preventable conditions affect millions of Americans, including many in Missouri. Missouri ranks near the bottom nationally, including 40th in adult mental health distress and in rates of cardiovascular disease, according to the United Health Foundation.

Employers experience rising health care costs and lost productivity. Communities feel the impact when fewer residents can participate fully in the workforce or civic life.

Research shows that a focus on prevention can produce strong economic returns. A comprehensive international review led by the North Wales Local Public Health Team found that every dollar invested in public health programs saves about $14 in future medical and societal costs by preventing illness and reducing the need for expensive treatment later.

Health infrastructure is economic infrastructure

That is why many experts describe health infrastructure as a form of economic infrastructure. Like roads, schools and broadband, the health of a population helps determine whether communities can grow and thrive.

Health infrastructure includes safe places to exercise, access to nutritious food and community spaces that encourage connection and reduce social isolation. Walkable communities are another example. Sidewalks, trails and safe public spaces make it easier for people to move throughout their day, stay active and interact with neighbors. These features support healthier lifestyles while also making communities more attractive places to live and work.

Health infrastructure also helps communities compete for economic opportunity. Businesses look for places where workers can live healthy, stable lives. Working professionals and their families want communities with access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity and environments that support well-being. Communities that invest in those conditions are often better positioned to attract employers, retain talent and support long-term economic growth.

MU Extension, a health partner

University of Missouri Extension is a leader in helping communities become healthier and safer places to live and work. MU Extension partners with communities to evaluate local health infrastructure and support the policy, systems and environmental changes that reduce barriers to healthy living.

At the same time, MU Extension works directly with residents by delivering research-based programs that support healthier lifestyles. The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program provides nutrition education. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy promotes physical activity. The Engaged Neighbor Program strengthens community connectedness. Mental Health First Aid equips residents to support those facing mental health challenges. These efforts, and many others, help communities create environments where healthy living is easier and more accessible.

Healthy futures

Building health infrastructure does not happen through one organization alone. It requires partnerships across local governments, schools, businesses, health providers, community organizations and residents themselves. When communities work together, they can create environments that support healthier lives.

When this happens, the benefits extend far beyond individual well-being. They have ripple effects across the entire economy.

So, when communities talk about keeping farms productive, improving schools and creating more jobs, health must be part of the conversation.

Healthy communities provide the foundation that Missouri’s future growth depends on.