Advancing Rural Health

Residents in rural communities face persistent and complex health challenges, including access to care, transportation barriers, workforce shortages, aging infrastructure, and outdated technology. Nearly 80% of rural communities are considered medically underserved, and ongoing rural hospital closures continue to threaten access to essential health services. In response, ASTHO members are leading innovative, cross-sector strategies to strengthen rural health systems, preserve access to care, and improve population health outcomes.

ASTHO and CDC have partnered to provide rural public health leaders with essential tools and information needed to advance health in rural communities. Featuring interactive training modules, a mapping tool, recordings, and more, these resources highlight key considerations for leading public health in rural areas.