Overview
- Researchers mapped 2017–2023 practice locations using the AMA Physician Masterfile and USDA rural codes to quantify the workforce shift.
- The rural family physician count fell from 11,847 to 10,544, with the Northeast down 15.3% and the West down 3.2%.
- Rural doctors often cover primary, emergency, maternity and pediatric care and manage panels of 1,000–3,500 patients, magnifying the impact of departures.
- The study notes rising relocations of adults aged 25–44 to smaller cities and rural counties since 2020, adding pressure on access to care.
- Proposed responses include greater use of advanced practice providers, stronger compensation and rural-focused training, including a University of Rochester rural residency track slated to match in 2027 and begin training in 2028.