This difference exists because rural residents have a lower life expectancy. Figure 3 indicates that death rates are highest in the most remote areas. The health status of infants and children in rural counties is a major concern. As Figure 4 demonstrates, the rate in distant rural counties is highest. The greatest difficulty in securing prenatal care exists in the more remote counties and for non-white women.
Rural mothers are also more likely to have care only in the last trimester.
The health deficits of rural children do not stop with infancy. One extremely troubling health issue facing rural communities is teen pregnancy. Key health indicators such as high rates of inadequate prenatal care demonstrate the impact of provider shortages. Classification as a Health Professional Shortage Area must be applied for. Counties which have such designation have additional grant opportunities.