VCOM View Magazine Vol. 14 | No. 1

Outreach Addressing Rural Healthcare Challenges and Opportunities at VCOM’s National Rural Medicine Conference by Amy Ostroth

R ural America is in the midst of a healthcare shortage 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 VCOM National Rural Medical Conference (VNRMC) took place in March in Nashville, Tennessee. The conference 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 with more healthcare needs than their urban counterparts. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cognitive decline disproportionately impact these populations, due to primary care provider shortages. 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 VCOM, have focused on recruiting rural students and supporting rural residency programs. 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.

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