Primary care access is a pressing challenge in rural communities in New York State. Barriers to access vary across rural populations; urgent issues include shortages and poor retention in the primary care workforce, lack of resources for population-specific needs, and threats to financial sustainability for rural practices. Moreover, preventive care utilization is often lower in rural areas, including lower rates of vaccination and reproductive health services, and is associated with poor access to primary care.

This report utilizes existing data, scholarly research, and qualitative information gained from rural health partners to describe key issues facing rural communities across New York. Through the synthesis of these issues, PCDC identifies and promotes strategies for policy makers to improve rural access to primary care.