The Challenges of Providing Interventional Radiology Services to Rural and Smaller Community Hospitals.

Abstract

Recruitment and retention of interventional radiologists for rural and smaller community hospital practices is a serious physician staffing issue. This article explores rural interventional radiology and perspectives of various stakeholders, such as rural radiology group practices, rural hospitals, interventional radiologists, public and private academic institutions, and urban health care providers, and considers the unique health care needs of rural patients. Some early solutions are evident. Collaboration among all stakeholders will be necessary to properly address the challenges.