MHA Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare recently released the Rural Physician Recruiting Challenges and Solutions white paper, produced by its Physician Solutions division (formerly Merritt Hawkins).
The resource identifies several approaches to address these challenges:
Recruiting Physicians to Rural Hospitals is More Challenging than Ever.
According to AMN Healthcare’s 2025 Review of Physician and Advanced Practitioner Recruiting Incentives, the average signing bonus for family medicine physicians has increased by 15% over the past year. This trend underscores the escalating competition for medical talent in underserved areas. For rural hospitals, the stakes are even higher. With limited resources and fewer candidates, attracting and retaining physicians requires innovative strategies.
Traditional Incentives Are No Longer Sufficient.
While competitive salaries and signing bonuses are important, they are no longer the primary drivers for physicians considering rural practice. A recent survey by AMN Healthcare revealed that 70% of physicians prioritize work-life balance and community engagement over financial incentives. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of recruitment strategies.
Building a Sustainable Workforce Requires a Multifaceted Approach.
Successful rural hospitals are adopting comprehensive recruitment strategies that include:
- Community integration: Engaging physicians in local community activities to foster a sense of belonging.
- Flexible work arrangements: Offering part-time or telemedicine options to accommodate lifestyle preferences.
- Educational partnerships: Collaborating with medical schools to create residency programs tailored to rural healthcare needs.
By implementing these strategies, rural hospitals can strengthen recruitment efforts and improve retention.
Members seeking for more insights and detailed strategies may download the full white paper.
Members with questions may contact Ben Jones, regional vice president at AMN Healthcare. Members with questions about the MHA Endorsed Business Partner Program may contact Rob Wood at the MHA.
