The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) surveyed physician assistants and physician associates still in training on their interest in practicing in rural areas. Though more than a quarter (28 percent) of the survey respondents were either already working in or interested in practicing in a rural location, respondents identified several factors as barriers to an ongoing or future practice there. These ranged from not having career opportunities for a spouse/partner, to school concerns for their children, to specialties that could not be supported by a small population.
