Recruitment of family physicians in rural practice

We report the results of a study to find out how rural family physicians choose their practice location--information that could allow physicians and practices to be more appropriately and easily matched. We interviewed rural family physicians who completed a Minnesota residency in 1990 or 1991 to determine what factors influenced their final practice selection. The survey revealed that partners in practice are physicians' greatest concern, followed by geographic location, recreational activities, call schedule, and opportunities for spouse and children. Despite numerous available practice options, it was difficult for physicians to find practices and communities that met the majority of their personal, professional, and familial needs. This study suggests a need for a physician placement network that would increase retention and help ease the current health care provider shortage in rural Minnesota.