Strengthening the Kansas Rural Physician Workforce: Outcomes of the Scholars in Rural Health Program

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background and Objectives: The Scholars in Rural Health (SRH) program at the University of Kansas School of Medicine (KUSOM) aims to address rural physician shortages by recruiting and supporting college students from rural Kansas. This study evaluated the outcomes of the early assurance program to determine its effectiveness in increasing participation in the rural physician workforce. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study (1997–2024) to analyze data from 403 participants in the SRH program. We reviewed program and medical school records to assess completion rates, residency placements, and practice locations. Rural practice was defined using the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) criteria. Results: Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) performance was a key factor in medical school matriculation, with an increase in nonmatriculation following the 2015 MCAT revision. A total of 200 people completed the SRH program and medical school. Of these, 136 (68%) matched into primary care residencies (family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics), with 110 (55%) matching into family medicine residencies. Of those studied, a total of 150 residency graduates were in practice; 84 (56%) practiced in fully FORHP rural counties. Additionally, 122 (81%) practiced in Kansas overall. Conclusions: The SRH program is associated with a higher proportion of graduates practicing in rural Kansas compared to the overall KUSOM cohort. Continued support, particularly in MCAT preparation, may improve retention and further enhance rural physician workforce development. Future studies should explore the impact of state loan repayment or service-obligation programs and the role of SRH alumni in academic and mentorship roles at KUSOM.