The Pipeline

As the state's leading educator of physicians practicing in Missouri, the MU School of Medicine is in a key position to improve the supply and distribution of physicians in rural Missouri. Although it cannot single-handedly solve Missouri's rural health problems, the school has the unique potential to enhance the physician workforce.

In response to the challenge, Dean Lester R. Bryant requested the creation of the MU Area Health Education Center (MU AHEC) program office in 1994 to address the shortage of physicians in rural areas of the state. The MU AHEC Rural Medical Scholars Program was then designed to encompass five distinct but related curriculum and clinical components. The sequential programs provide students with ongoing exposure to rural medicine. Programs include the AHEC Career Enhancement Scholars program, the Bryant Scholars Pre-Admission Program, the Summer Community Program, The Rural Track Clerkship Program and the Missouri Physician Placement Service.

THE
CHALLENGE
Rural Missouri faces several challenges meeting the healthcare needs of its people including:
  • A declining economic base
  • Large numbers of elderly and poor
  • Rising healthcare costs
  • A shortage of health professionals
Mission Statement

To enhance access to quality health care, particularly primary and preventative care, by growing and supporting Missouri's healthcare workforce.

To Contact MU AHEC: 2401 Lemone Industrial Boulevard, DC345.00, Columbia, MO 65211 Phone 573-882-0068 FAX 573-882-5666