Rural Health in America: How Shifting Populations Leave People Behind

This rural health infographic depicts how increasing urbanization leaves behind an older, sicker and poorer population in rural America, with corresponding health care challenges. It also summarizes promising tools to improve rural health.

In rural areas, 18.4% of the population is over 65 years of age compared to 14.5% in urban areas, and rates of obesity, diabetes and smoking are higher. Expanding local provider communities and using technology to increase access to providers and specialists can help rural Americans get the health care they need.