Rural Health
News by Topic: Health workforce shortage designations

HRSA: Notice of Criteria for Determining Maternity Care Health Professional Target Areas Federal Register

May 7, 2026 - Notice of final rule from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) finalizing updates to the criteria for determining Maternity Care Target Areas (MCTAs), geographic areas within Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) that have a shortage of maternity care health professionals. This rule also summarizes and responds to comments received on the February 3, 2026, proposed rule. Updates to Maternity Care Health Professional Target Areas will be implemented beginning August 15, 2026.

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End of an Era: Who Will Care for Arivaca When Its Only Doctor Retires?

Mar 23, 2026 - Profiles a rural Arizona doctor preparing for retirement. Describes the impact on a rural community when the only doctor stops practicing, discussing health professional shortage areas, recruitment challenges, and distance to healthcare.

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