UWEC CERCA 2026

Previous studies have indicated a gap in healthcare access between urban and rural environments, primarily associated with travel distances and relative availability of providers. Technological solutions, such as telehealth, have been proposed as a way to close the access gap, but it is unclear whether telehealth and other technologies are having a sufficient impact. The purpose of this project was to examine providers’ perceptions of rural healthcare access in communities near Eau Claire, and particularly how technology plays a role in rural healthcare. Healthcare providers from the region completed an anonymous survey to share their experiences and perceptions. The participants’ responses were analyzed using qualitative content analysis and themes, categories, and exemplars will be presented.