Rural Health Initiative

In the United States there are roughly 15 million people living in medically underserved areas. In Washington alone, over 450,000 reside in pharmacy deserts, with nearly 800 new providers needed to eliminate those gaps in access to care.

Many of the residents in rural communities rely on the services of the local pharmacy or health clinic for their health care needs. Access to quality care is recognized as the most frequently identified rural health priority. Expanding access to health care professions in rural communities, specifically pharmacy education, is one solution to address the health disparities in the state.

The Vision

The health and wellness of our rural communities are improved through enhanced education opportunities and increased access to pharmacist-provided care that meets their unique health care needs.

• Increase access to affordable, local, and quality health care services in rural and medically underserved areas.
• Recruit students from underrepresented and rural communities, ensuring they have academic support, and helping them return to those communities upon graduation.
• Promote innovation and entrepreneurship through new business and interprofessional patient care models.