The healthcare shortage in rural areas has drawn a lot of press lately. Statistics indicate that in comparison to urban areas, rural areas have much lower numbers of healthcare workers across the board.
According to Unequal Distribution of the U.S. Primary Care Workforce, there were 68 primary care physicians per 100,000 residents in rural areas. In comparison, in urban areas there are 84 primary care physicians per 100,000 residents.
Studies also indicate that rural healthcare facilities rely on a healthcare workforce closer to retirement age. As these professionals retire, staff demands will only increase. Rural areas also have fewer mid-level providers in comparison to urban areas. This is especially true in cases where the mid-level is specialized, such as in the case of a CRNA.
The nursing workforce in rural areas sees similar issues with their workforce nearing retirement age; this is true for both rural LPNs and rural RNs. In addition to an aging workforce, a recent report indicates that much of the rural nursing workforce is less likely to hold a bachelors degree in comparison to their counterparts in more urban areas.
Overall, in rural areas the healthcare workforce sees more healthcare workers in professional areas that require less training and education. For example, there are fewer dentists, pharmacists and physical therapists serving rural communities.
A career serving rural communities isn’t right for everyone. Demand in urban areas and at specialty centers continues to be high, and opportunities abound. Consider the challenges and benefits of each potential career path, and speak with a recruiter who can help you find a good fit.