Rural populations experience significant healthcare disparities compared to urban counterparts. This is particularly true of the increasing minority populations in rural areas. Common sense suggests that clinicians who understand the language and tradition of their patients and the communities in which they live may offer more complete and culturally effective health care. Additionally, clinicians of minority and multicultural background contribute more effective care to patients in rural and remote areas. There is evidence that a Black or Hispanic patient is more likely to seek care from a clinician of their own race because of personal preference or language, and not only because of geographic proximity. Yet, minorities are seriously under-represented in health professions, and the situation is not improving. Learn more by reading the full report,