Minnesota consistently ranks as one of the healthiest states in the nation. Yet health outcomes, and opportunities to live a healthy lifestyle, vary greatly depending on who you are and where you live. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota believes that all people, regardless of race, income, zip code or other factors, should have opportunities to live the healthiest lives possible. Where you live, what your zip code is, impacts your health. One third of the counties in Minnesota have fewer than eight physicians per 10,000 residents, especially in the most rural areas of the state. 25 counties in Minnesota have fewer than four dentists per 10,000 residents. And, even if you have access to care providers, you might not have access to healthy food. 55% of residents in Greater Minnesota say their food choices are at least somewhat influenced by a lack of stores nearby that sell healthy food, compared to 46% of Twin Cities residents. In “A Tale of Two Cities” we take a look at two friends who live on “opposites sides of town”. They grow up together, but because of a few miles, their realities and daily struggles couldn’t be further apart. Many thanks to Brittany Delaney, Amy Schmitt, Appetite for Change, The Terrarium and Quiet Island Films. Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® of Minnesota and Blue Plus® are nonprofit independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. All rights reserved.