Tag: recruit NPs PAs 2025

Rural healthcare facilities across the U.S. are facing an urgent challenge in 2025: building a sustainable workforce of qualified clinicians. With physician shortages worsening, many rural hospitals and clinics are now turning to advanced practice providers (APPs) — including nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) — as a core part of their long-term staffing strategy.

In this guide, we’ll explore why APPs are increasingly vital to rural healthcare, key trends driving this shift, and proven solutions your facility can implement to attract and retain top talent.

The Growing Role of APPs in Rural Healthcare

Nationwide, NPs and PAs are stepping in to fill critical care gaps left by the shortage of primary care physicians. In fact, in some states, nurse practitioners now outnumber primary care physicians — and are helping millions of Americans access care that would otherwise be unavailable.

This trend is especially pronounced in rural communities, where geographic isolation and a lack of local training programs make it difficult to recruit physicians. APPs, supported by expanded scope of practice laws in many states, are helping rural hospitals maintain vital services such as primary care, urgent care, and chronic disease management.

Hybrid Models: Telehealth + APPs Expanding Rural Access

Telehealth is playing a critical role in enhancing the reach and effectiveness of rural APP teams. Many hospitals are adopting hybrid models, where on-site NPs/PAs deliver direct care while telehealth services provide specialist consultations and backup from off-site physicians.


This approach not only improves access but also supports retention by helping APPs manage complex cases with remote physician collaboration. For patients in isolated communities, it means more timely care, fewer unnecessary transfers, and greater continuity of treatment.

The Rural Physician Shortage: Why APPs Are Essential

The rural physician shortage is expected to worsen in coming years. Many rural areas already experience severe deficits: nearly 30% of rural U.S. counties lack a single obstetrician, and over 60 million Americans live in federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).


Burnout, retirements, and fewer young physicians choosing rural practice all contribute to this shortage. Without a robust pipeline of APPs, many rural hospitals would be forced to cut services or close entirely.

Federal Support: The Bipartisan Primary Care and Health Workforce Act

Recognizing this crisis, Congress is moving forward with bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening the rural healthcare workforce. The Bipartisan Primary Care and Health Workforce Act, advancing in the Senate, would invest $26 billion to expand training, support community health centers, and fund primary care positions in underserved areas.


For rural hospitals and clinics, this type of federal investment — combined with smart local recruiting strategies — can help ensure the long-term sustainability of their APP teams.

How to Build a Sustainable Rural APP Workforce in 2025

If your facility is ready to strengthen its workforce with NPs and PAs, here are proven steps to take:

1. Partner with a Specialized Staffing Agency

Working with a firm experienced in rural APP recruitment can save time and ensure a better fit. Momentum Healthcare Staffing specializes in placing:
– Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
– Physician Assistants (PAs)
– Complementary physicians to support hybrid care models

Our services include guaranteed placements with a 90-day replacement policy, and discounted rates for initial hires — helping rural facilities build strong teams with minimal risk.

 2. Offer Flexible Contracts

Today’s APPs value flexibility. Offering permanent or locum-to-perm contracts can attract candidates who are open to rural practice but want options for career growth.

3. Support Community Integration

Retention is just as important as recruitment. Successful rural hospitals invest in helping APPs feel connected to the community:
– Relocation support
– Professional development opportunities
– Mentorship programs
– Involvement in local events and leadership roles

 4. Stay Informed on State Policy Changes

State laws governing scope of practice for NPs and PAs continue to evolve. Facilities that stay ahead of these changes can leverage new opportunities to expand services and improve care delivery.

Final Thoughts

In 2025 and beyond, advanced practice providers will be the cornerstone of sustainable rural healthcare. By adopting a thoughtful, proactive recruiting strategy — and leveraging the right partnerships — rural hospitals and clinics can build APP teams that deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

Momentum Healthcare Staffing is ready to help. We specialize in rural-friendly placements of NPs, PAs, and physicians — with guaranteed results and a deep understanding of the rural hiring landscape.

Let’s build your rural care team today: contact us.