Caring for the Country

Medical students lack role models in rural primary care, contributing to the shortage of family care physicians in rural areas. This book addresses that need by profiling graduates from the Physician Shortage Area Program (PSAP) of Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, who now practice rural family medicine. The text challenges pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and family physicians to consider rural family practice and is an excellent resource for pre-med and medical school advisors. In-depth profiles reveal the everyday reality of the physician shortage through poignant stories and candid dialogue. They cover the social and professional issues that rural family physicians face, highlighting topics such as the meaning of rural family practice, the roles of medical schools and hospitals, health care policy, rural obstetrics, and telemedicine. The concluding chapter summarizes the professional and personal lessons learned and outlines the future of rural family practice.