Indiana’s historic public health initiative, Health First Indiana, is set to receive a $150 million boost in 2025. All 98 counties in the state have chosen to participate in the initiative, which aims to enhance core public health services and improve the health of Hoosiers.
County elected officials were responsible for deciding whether to accept funding from Health First Indiana. In 2024, all but six local health departments chose to receive a total of $75 million in funding. Prior to this increase in funding, counties shared approximately $7 million annually from the state. In 2025, Crawford, Fountain, Harrison, Johnson, Wells, and Whitley counties will also be joining the initiative.
Governor Eric Holcomb expressed his gratitude for the full participation in the initiative, stating that the investment will lead to improved health for Hoosiers. He credited the local officials, health departments, and legislative leaders for embracing Health First Indiana and implementing new health strategies.
In order to receive funding from Health First Indiana, counties must allocate at least 60% of the funds towards core preventative services such as immunizations, chronic disease prevention, and maternal and child health. The Indiana Department of Health emphasized that local health departments will have the autonomy to decide how the funding is utilized based on the specific needs of their communities.
A list detailing the amount of funding each county will receive can be accessed on the state’s Health First Indiana website. For further information, individuals can contact IPB’s health reporter
