Make an impact with J+C.
Forty-six million Americans living in rural areas are facing a crisis that physicians and advanced practitioners like you can solve.
Between 2010 and 2020, 163 rural hospitals closed, exacerbating the challenges in these communities. With 20% of the population residing in rural areas, the impact of such closures is profound and leaves many communities with little access to medical treatment. Furthermore, the median age in rural areas is 43, indicating a demographic that has more demanding medical needs. Locum tenens opportunities with Jackson + Coker provide the chance to fill gaps in rural health care while supporting your priorities.
The pressures of rural health care.
The age demographic of rural America is a major contributor to the crisis surrounding access to health care. The rural population tends to be older, with 17.5% of residents being 65 or older, whereas in urban areas, only 13.8% of residents are in this age group. Locum tenens can help prevent hospital closures by working in rural areas, as this helps treat more patients and therefore generate greater profit.
Currently, the rural population has a great need for healthcare services. These areas often have less access to physicians, advanced practitioners, and facilities, making it difficult to get the care they need.
This is not only causing issues for older generations, but also affects all generations living in rural areas with challenges including:
Decreased access to specialized care.
Increased travel cost when in need of care.
Increased risk of death and disability due to delayed diagnosis.
Impact the lives of patients + elevate your life.
Taking a locum tenens placement in rural areas can help to improve access to health care by filling key workforce gaps. Rural health clinics, long-term care facilities, Indian Health Services and urgent care centers often have these roles. More physicians and advanced practitioners could mean better access to health care in rural areas and an improved quality of care. Further, locums opportunities can improve rural healthcare systems by offering special training and support that these areas would otherwise go without.
“When you help a rural organization fill a gap, you’re not just contributing to their success, you are also impacting people’s lives by giving them the health care they deserve. It’s a win-win situation.”
- Stefanie McClesky, vice president of sales
In addition to the benefits for patients, locums tenens can also be a rewarding experience for physicians and advanced practitioners. Locums can practice in diverse communities and medical specialties, while addressing rural healthcare challenges. They can also develop strong relationships with their patients and communities often with a slower pace of life. This is a great way to experience a new environment and travel to unexpected places.
Even if you don’t want to relocate to a rural area, you can still contribute through telehealth opportunities at Jackson + Coker. Telehealth helps the crisis by allowing physicians and advanced practitioners with specialized training to offer care nationwide. This approach also reduces travel expenses and diagnosis delays.
We have an extensive network of rural medical facilities in communities where you can experience a different pace of life while helping communities in need. Explore Rural Opportunities
Sources: American Hospital Association, United States Census Bureau