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Idaho Rural Family Physician Workforce Study: The Community Apgar Questionnaire, D. F. Schmitz, E. Baker, A. Nukui, T. Epperly

Public Health and Population Science Faculty Publications and Presentations

Context: Community factors of varied importance help determine the success of achieving and maintaining a physician workforce. The purpose of this study was to develop an evaluation instrument (Community Apgar Questioinnaire) useful to rural Idaho communities’ in their assessment of the assets and capabilities related to physician recruitment and retention.

Methods: A quantitative scoring interview instrument was developed based on a literature review, site visits and discussions with rural physicians and hospital administrators. A total of 11 rural Idaho communities differing in geography and other known variables were selected, some identified historically to have more success in recruitment and retention …