Rural communities across the United States continue to experience significant challenges in accessing high-quality and equitable health care. Provider shortages, limited resources, and geographic barriers remain persistent obstacles that affect outcomes across the lifespan. Nurse practitioners are consistently identified as key contributors to improving access and strengthening care delivery in these areas.
In support of the national conversation on rural health advancement, Professor Joyce Knestrick of GW Nursing has co-authored an article in the Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners titled “Rural Health Transformation Program: Implications for Nurse Practitioners.” Her publication examines how evolving models of care can support healthier rural communities and highlights the essential leadership role nurse practitioners can play in improving access, supporting prevention efforts, and advancing equity.
Preparing Nurses to Lead in Rural Communities
GW Nursing’s RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program offers students the opportunity to develop the skills that align with the needs outlined in Professor Knestrick’s work. Through coursework focused on rural health systems, exposure to community-based care models, and immersive clinical experiences in rural and regional settings, scholars learn how to apply research-informed approaches to real-world practice.
Students in the program engage with topics such as:
- Social and structural determinants of health in rural communities
- Evidence-based interventions that improve access and outcomes
- The role of health policy and advocacy in rural health transformation
- Community engagement practices that support sustainable change
By combining academic preparation with hands-on learning, the program equips nurses with the perspective and competencies needed to make meaningful contributions to rural health improvement.
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GW Nursing’s RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program
GW Nursing’s RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program offers students the opportunity to develop the skills that align with the needs outlined in Professor Knestrick’s work. Through coursework focused on rural health systems, exposure to community-based care models, and immersive clinical experiences in rural and regional settings, scholars learn how to apply research-informed approaches to real-world practice.
Read Professor Knestrick’s publication in the Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners