How can pediatric care be provided in underserved areas? A view of rural pediatric care.

Abstract

Building on the concept that the future is not what it used to be, this article will address the delivery of primary care pediatrics in rural America. I will discuss the demographic differences that exist today between urban and rural areas, the differences in practice style and lifestyle in different geographic arenas, and the unique hardships created by those differences. The strengths and opportunities that are available now and that will be in the future will be reviewed. I will discuss the application of those opportunities in an attempt to construct a framework for a successful transition into the "new future."