Key Messages & Data Points
Each year, NOSORH compiles key messages, data, and research to highlight the strengths, challenges, and opportunities facing rural health across the country.
The 2026 edition provides valuable information to help raise awareness, spark conversations, and celebrate the #PowerOfRural.
Please note: While this year's resource may look familiar, the data has been updated to reflect the most current information available.
Key Messages
The featured data supports three key messages that reflect the strengths, needs, and opportunities of rural America.
Unique Rural Landscapes
Rural America offers a beautiful and challenging landscape, requiring unique approaches.
Mission-Minded Care
Rural America is a great place for mission-minded health professionals to provide individualized care.
Rural Health Innovation
Rural America is fueling an innovative rural health infrastructure.
A Note About the Data
While statistics alone cannot tell the full story of rural life, they provide valuable context for understanding rural health. The information presented in this resource is supported by research and data from the sources cited in the 2026 publication.
NOSORH gratefully acknowledges the contributors and research organizations whose work helps make this resource possible.
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided financial support for this project. The award provided 100% of total costs and totaled $1,145,000. The contents are those of the author. They may not reflect the policies of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.