What Happens When You're the Only Doctor for Miles

What Happens When You're the Only Doctor for Miles

February 3, 2026 · 35 min

About this episode

The episode explores the complexities of healthcare in rural America through the insights of Dr. Steven Furr.

How does healthcare in rural America differ from care in cities? The answer is more complex than familiar images of house calls and close-knit communities. On this episode of Health Matters, Steven Furr, M.D., of the American Academy of Family Physicians draws on more than 40 years of experience practicing rural medicine. He explains what makes rural populations unique, how closely connected rural health systems are, and the daily challenge of balancing evidence-based treatment with what patients can realistically afford. Sign up to receive Mayo Clinic Press emails. Find us online at Mayo Clinic Press for more health and wellness articles, podcasts and books. Do you have feedback, questions or topic suggestions? Email us at mcppodcasts@mayo.edu.

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