DARLINGTON — The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports that Lafayette County had one of the three lowest age-adjusted mortality rates in Wisconsin in 2024, alongside Bayfield and Door counties. Age-adjusted mortality is the standard measure used to compare overall mortality across counties because it accounts for differences in age distribution. Typically, rural areas experience higher mortality rates than urban areas, making Lafayette County’s ranking especially noteworthy.
“Lafayette County is proving that a rural community can achieve exceptional health outcomes,” said Julie Liebfried, Director of the Lafayette County Health Department. “The state data reflects the commitment to quality healthcare, and lifestyles are key to a healthier community. The Laf. Co. Health Department has always worked hard to be here for our residents and provide care when needed.”
Lower mortality rates suggest that people in Lafayette County are living longer and experiencing better overall health outcomes than residents in many other parts of Wisconsin. Many factors influence health — including demographics, income, healthcare access, and individual behaviors.
“These results suggest our community is creating conditions that support longer, healthier lives. What Lafayette County has built allows people not only to live here, but to thrive, and Lafayette Hospital + Clinics is proud to be part of that success,” said Dr. Matt Solverson.
Marie Wamsley, CEO of Lafayette Hospital + Clinics, added that the achievement reflects the combined efforts of Lafayette Hospital + Clinics, the Lafayette County Health Department, Lafayette County Human Services, healthcare providers, local EMS, employers, schools, residents, and community organizations working together to improve health.
“It’s another reason that LHC is proud of its rural roots,” Wamsley said. “For nearly 75 years, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare to our communities and beyond.”
In Lafayette County, the leading causes of death are cancer, heart disease, unintentional injuries, chronic lower respiratory disease, and stroke. More information is available through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services — Deaths Overview Dashboard.
Lafayette Hospital + Clinics (LHC) opened in April 2025, continuing a legacy of healthcare excellence in the region. As a 24-bed critical access hospital and Rural Health Clinic (RHC), LHC provides a full spectrum of acute care inpatient and outpatient services. Uniquely, it remains the only county-owned hospital in the state of Wisconsin. Formerly known as Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County (MHLC) — originally established in 1952 — LHC continues to grow and evolve to meet the healthcare needs of residents in Lafayette County and the surrounding communities. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.