Caring for the Country: Family Doctors in Small Rural Towns

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.

This distinct book profiles ten graduates from the Physician Shortage Area Program (PSAP) of Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, who are now practicing family medicine in small rural towns. Author Howard K. Rabinowitz, MD, Director of the PSAP, invites pre-med undergraduates, medical students, residents, and family physicians to read the compelling stories of these doctors, who enjoy rich and fulfilling relationships with their patients and their communities. Providing important insights for those interested in addressing the rural physician shortage, and an excellent resource for pre-med and medical school advisors, the text brings into focus the true calling of medicine―making a difference by helping others. The book opens by discussing the impact of the PSAP, one of the nation’s most successful programs in increasing the supply of rural physicians. In-depth profiles reveal the everyday reality of practicing family medicine in small towns through poignant stories and candid dialogue. They cover the spectrum of social and professional issues that rural family doctors face, addressing topics such as the scope of rural family practice, the roles of medical schools and hospital systems, health care policy, rural obstetrics, and telemedicine. The concluding chapter summarizes the professional and personal lessons learned and outlines the future of the field. Anyone with an interest in the unique rewards and challenges of rural medicine will enjoy this enlightening read.