Bridging the Gap in Rural Healthcare Access
Nearly 60 million Americans—or 1 in 5—lack adequate access to primary care due to a national shortage of primary care providers, especially in rural and limited access communities.
Rural populations face significant healthcare imbalances caused by:
Geographic isolation
Economic and educational barriers
Cultural and social differences
Limited legislative focus
These obstacles make it harder for individuals in remote areas to access consistent, quality care—and to live healthy, productive lives.
Contributing Workforce Issues
Too few students are choosing careers in healthcare
Many professionals do not practice in limited access or rural areas
Underrepresentation of racial, ethnic minorities, and individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the health workforce
A disconnect between healthcare education programs and real community health needs
Misuse or underuse of available healthcare services due to lack of access or awareness
Empowering the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) are transforming healthcare access by:
Training and inspiring future healthcare professionals
Supporting workforce placement in limited access and rural communities
Promoting health workforce diversity and inclusion
Building stronger ties between medical education and community health priorities
Through education, outreach, and partnerships, AHECs are creating long-term solutions to the healthcare challenges facing our communities.