Public health is the science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities. In rural areas like Arkansas, the need for dedicated public health professionals is important to address long-standing health issues.
Career advancement and greater professional impact often require further education, yet finding the time to pursue it can be a significant challenge. The online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Public Health program from Arkansas State University (A-State) offers working professionals a flexible way to gain the education needed to promote well-being, reduce health risks and rebuild community trust in underserved regions.
Severe Shortages and Health Disparities
The shortage of health workers in rural regions, particularly those dedicated to public health, creates significant gaps in care and prevention. In Arkansas and surrounding states, this issue is undeniable. More than one-third of Arkansans live in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), and in 2020, six counties had only a single primary care physician, per the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI). The disparity in available primary care is stark: the primary care physician ratio in rural areas of Arkansas was about 84 per 100,000 people in 2022. Nationally, rural areas have fewer primary care physicians, dentists and other providers per capita than urban areas. This scarcity contributes to major differences in health outcomes.
Rural populations experience a 40% higher rate of preventable hospitalizations and a 23% higher mortality rate compared to those in urban settings. In Arkansas, these types of disparities are clear: life expectancy in a county like Phillips (68 years) is significantly lower than in Benton County (78.8 years). Rural residents are more likely to die from common diseases like cancer, heart disease and stroke. This gap shows the need for more public health workers who focus on prevention and community care.
Social Factors and Distrust in Rural Health
Health is shaped by the social determinants of health. These are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live and age. In rural communities, factors such as poverty, limited transportation and food insecurity disproportionately affect residents. For example, rural areas in Arkansas have high levels of food insecurity and child poverty, and the lack of reliable transportation often prevents people from getting to their health appointments.
Many people in rural communities mistrust of public health interventions and the healthcare system. This skepticism stems from historical trauma and systemic mistreatment, often affecting marginalized groups within these communities. Socioeconomic disparities also play a part, as limited access to high-quality care doesn’t boost confidence in the system. Public health professionals are vital because they are trained to address these issues with cultural sensitivity.
What Is the Role of Public Health Professionals in Rural Health Education?
Public health professionals trained to work with cultural awareness can bridge these gaps and help restore community confidence in the healthcare system. In rural areas, public health professionals have a few key roles:
- Disease prevention: Organize vaccination efforts and programs that address common behaviors like tobacco use
- Community health assessment: Collect and analyze data to understand a community’s health needs and resources
- Health education: Create and share information to help people make better decisions about their health:
- Addressing social determinants: Work with community groups and local governments to improve access to healthy food, transportation and safe places for physical activity
The online B.S. in Public Health degree from A-State prepares students for this type of work. The program’s Health Equity course covers health equity and a general overview of health disparities in the U.S., including historical issues and case studies, with a focus on critical analysis and application. The coursework teaches graduates how to identify systemic issues, such as poverty and lack of access, and develop solutions. Graduates can use this information to develop community partnerships, crucial for rebuilding trust that has been lost. By showing respect for the local people and working collaboratively, they can become voices for rural Arkansas communities.
Learn more about A-State’s online B.S. in Public Health program.