National Rural Health Day to Spotlight Healthcare Challenges and Innovation Today
National Rural Health Day (NRHD) will be observed on Thursday, November 20, 2025, recognizing the vital contributions of rural healthcare providers and the unique challenges faced by the approximately 61 million Americans living in rural communities. The annual event is coordinated by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) and celebrates what it calls the “Power of Rural.”
This year’s observance will focus on key issues affecting rural healthcare systems nationwide. Persistent provider shortages continue to strain access to medical services, with only a small percentage of physicians practicing in rural regions despite nearly a quarter of the U.S. population residing there. Rural hospitals also face increasing financial pressure, leading to closures that leave many communities without nearby emergency or inpatient care.
Rural residents often experience significant health disparities, including higher poverty rates, increased prevalence of chronic conditions such as hypertension, and limited access to mental health services. NRHD aims to raise awareness of these obstacles while also highlighting the innovative solutions emerging in rural healthcare—such as the use of advanced technologies, including robotic surgery, even in critical access hospitals.
Communities, organizations, and individuals are encouraged to take part in the observance. Suggested activities include thanking local healthcare providers, engaging in advocacy through letters to the editor or social media posts using hashtags such as #PowerOfRural and #NationalRuralHealthDay, and organizing events focused on healthy living, such as group walks or bike rides.
NOSORH also offers a free Power of Rural Social Press Kit, featuring logos, graphics, and sample messages for those wishing to promote rural health awareness. Many State Offices of Rural Health will host events and webinars throughout the day to further highlight rural healthcare efforts.
National Rural Health Day continues to serve as an important reminder of the resilience of rural communities and the ongoing need to support and strengthen healthcare access across America’s rural landscape.
