For the 1 in 5 people that live in rural America, choosing to live there should not present barriers to living a long and healthy life. But too often, it does.
According to the County Health Rankings, rural counties have higher premature death rates and rank lowest nationally in overall health outcomes. The factors driving rural health disparities vary widely, from shifting demographics, to changing economies and disinvestment, to the opioid epidemic and insufficient access to needed care.
Amid these complex issues, with a range of partners, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is supporting the efforts of rural communities across the nation to develop solutions which effectively leverage local resources and strengths, such as strong social connections and civic engagement, which have been linked to good health.
Connected with these efforts, this collection shares key research and emerging insights into the many sides of rural health in America, and resources for rural communities working to achieve better health for all.
