Rural America is in the midst of a healthcare crisis. With nearly 20% of the U.S. population living in rural areas, these communities experience higher rates of chronic conditions, fewer healthcare providers, and significant barriers to access.
The 2025 Թϱ National Rural Medical Conference (VNRMC) featured keynotes from experts in rural healthcare and policy, including Alan Morgan, CEO of the National Rural Health Association; Nathan Baugh, executive director of the National Association of Rural Health Clinics; and Amanda Pears Kelly, executive director of the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved. The conference connected these experts with educators and policymakers to explore solutions, highlight bright spots, and reinforce the need for ongoing advocacy in rural healthcare.
The Rural Health Disparity
Rural Americans are, on average, older, poorer, and sicker than their urban counterparts. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cognitive decline disproportionately affect these populations, and primary care provider shortages exacerbate the challenge.
Studies show that medical students from rural backgrounds are more likely to practice in rural areas. However, only a small percentage of medical students come from rural communities. Osteopathic medical schools—including Թϱ, which hosted the conference— have focused on recruiting rural students, but access to rural residency programs remains a challenge. Experts noted that once a physician completes residency training in a rural setting, they are likely to stay, making it crucial to expand rural graduate medical education opportunities.
Rural Healthcare Initiatives
Participants at the conference heard from some experts who are working to address rural healthcare challenges.
The Cherokee National Health Services (CNHS) and Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (OSUCOM) exemplify how rural and tribal communities are working to close healthcare gaps. With 1.6 million patient visits annually, CNHS is working to ensure that no patient is more than 30 minutes from care while integrating cultural education into provider training. Through their partnership, OSUCOM and CNHS have created a tribal medicine track that prepares medical students for a primary care residency at tribal facilities. OSUCOM also offers a rural medical track designed to prepare students for a rural primary care residency and practice in rural or underserved Oklahoma.
Meanwhile, in Virginia, the Virginia Mental Health Access Program (VMAP) is addressing pediatric mental health shortages. With 11 of 18 counties in southwest Virginia having no pediatricians, VMAP supports primary care providers by offering education, call-line support, and care navigation services. The initiative has dramatically increased the number of providers trained and patients assisted, making it a great tool for addressing mental health needs in rural communities.
Policy and Advocacy: The Need for Clinician Voices
One of the strongest messages from the VNRMC was the importance of advocacy. With federal policies on Medicaid, Medicare reimbursement, and telehealth regulations in flux, clinicians must engage in the policy-making process. Healthcare providers have unique credibility in advocating for changes that improve access, funding, and sustainability in rural healthcare. “You don’t need to be an expert in policy to be an expert advocate,” one speaker noted.
The VNRMC underscored that while rural healthcare faces significant challenges, solutions exist. With continued collaboration among educators, policymakers, and medical professionals, the future of rural healthcare can be reshaped to better serve these vital communities.
