MD ID 6550 - Introduction to Population Health in the Rural Western U.S.

Developing a broad understanding of rural populations and their health-related issues, challenges and determinants is important for all physicians but especially for those who intend to enter a rural or remote practice. Proponents of such an approach argue “rural and remote medical practice encompasses a broader and deeper skill set from many specialties because rural practitioners must respond to a wide range of serious medical conditions.” Although all medical students would benefit from completing this elective, by participation in course activities learners examine rural populations through the lens of public health to build a foundation of knowledge, attitudes and attributes that are essential to contextualize subsequent and more advanced rural health education.