CME | Small Town, Big Impact: How Rural Family Physicians Make a Difference

The CME on the Go series of the Inside Family Medicine podcast lets you earn up to 0.5 CME credits per episode — join the hosts as they dive into In this episode, we explore the challenges and rewards of practicing family medicine in rural communities. Hosts share their firsthand experiences navigating expanded scopes of practice, resource limitations, and the deep connections forged with their patients. They discuss the unique realities of rural healthcare, from managing emergencies with limited resources to the fulfilling nature of serving close-knit communities.

This episode explores the complexities of rural family medicine, where physicians take on expanded roles due to limited specialist access and resources. The hosts discuss challenges like food insecurity, transportation barriers, and broadband limitations while highlighting the rewards of strong patient relationships and a deep sense of purpose. They also share personal stories and gratitude for mentors, reinforcing the vital role family physicians play in underserved communities.

Your hosts for this episode are Lauren Brown-Berchtold, MD, FAAFP, program director for the San Joaquin General Family Medicine Residency in French Camp, Calif.; Jason Marker, MD, MPA, FAAFP, associate director of the Memorial Hospital Family Medicine Residency program in South Bend, Ind.; and Tamaan Osbourne-Roberts, MD, MBA, FAAFP, chief medical officer and vice president of health strategy at the public sector health plan Colorado Access. 

Whether you're navigating patient queries or seeking to enhance your clinical knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for family physicians. Tune in now and earn CME credit!

 

Credit Claiming:  

After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link. https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/17832/e

 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Compare and contrast the scope of practice, resources, and referral patterns of rural and urban family physicians.

2. Recognize the unique needs and preferences of rural patients and communities.

3. Evaluate and manage common emergencies in rural medicine.

4. Identify the benefits and drawbacks of practicing family medicine in a rural setting.

 

Resources

• AAFP Rural Health Initiative Page
  
  
• Rural Health 2nd Edition, On-Demand

 

Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  

All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. 

Disclaimer:  Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.