With the launch of Maternal Health Access Solutions (MHAS) over three years ago, Ob Hospitalist Group (OBHG) has continued to invest in rural OB/GYN care. Patients living in rural areas often face access challenges when it comes to maternal healthcare. As a Medical Market Director with over a decade of experience working with OBHG programs in Mississippi, Dr. Norman Connell is passionate about serving rural communities and bringing awareness to geographical gaps in maternal care.
In a recent discussion, Dr. Connell discussed his experiences working as an OB hospitalist, including the challenges and rewards that accompany working in a rural state.
What is it like to practice maternal care in a rural state?
Practicing in Mississippi, and in other rural areas, comes with unique challenges and rewards. One of the biggest hurdles is the wide range of resources—or lack thereof—among patients. For instance, I’ve had patients without basic necessities like air conditioning in their homes, which can be unimaginable in the Deep South. On the other hand, I’ve also cared for patients from affluent backgrounds who had access to everything they needed. This disparity is common in rural areas, and it requires adaptability and creativity to meet patients where they are.
Another challenge is the limited access to specialized care. When I was in private practice, I often managed high-risk pregnancies myself because many of my patients couldn’t access maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists. They didn’t have the resources to travel or stay connected with those appointments. In larger cities, my colleagues might work closely with specialists, but in rural Mississippi, you have to manage those complex cases with the resources you have locally.
What are the most rewarding aspects of being an OB/GYN in a more rural state?
One of the most rewarding aspects is the deep, long-lasting relationships I’ve built with patients. These connections often extend beyond the clinic or hospital – I still run into patients I cared for years ago. These are the moments when you see the outcome of your work in tangible ways. Recently, I was at my kids’ basketball game, and one of the girls on the court was someone I delivered after her mom had a placental abruption and other complications during delivery. Seeing that little girl thrive was incredibly meaningful after helping deliver her years prior.
In a small town, you witness the lives you’ve touched and the lives that have touched yours. These kids, many of whom faced difficult beginnings, grow up and become part of the community. Some are young adults now, starting their own lives, and it’s humbling to know I played a role in their journey. It’s like having a second family. That sense of connection and the ability to watch lives unfold is truly special.
Are there any challenges with being an OB-GYN in a rural area?
Access to care is a significant issue. Many parts of Mississippi are maternal care deserts, meaning patients might not have a doctor nearby. This means rural doctors like myself have to stretch to cover a wide range of needs, which can be taxing. OBHG works to alleviate that burden by bringing hospitalists into the community, which allows for better provider work-life balance. And since I live and work locally, I’m never far away from my kids if they need me.
Despite these challenges, there’s a sense of purpose in this work. You know you’re making a difference in a community that truly needs you. While resources may be limited, the relationships you build with patients and the impact you have on their lives make it incredibly rewarding.
Do patients living in more rural areas face different health challenges than in other areas of the country?
One of the biggest challenges I see in rural areas, especially in Mississippi, is related to nutritional requirements. In some parts of the state, there are what we call ‘food deserts’—areas where there isn’t a grocery store within 50 miles where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, or other healthy foods. Many people are forced to shop at convenience stores, which aren’t ideal for preparing balanced, nutritious meals. Diet is incredibly important in pregnancy, so not meeting nutritional needs can lead to worsened outcomes or complications.
Another challenge is the lack of educational resources. Our schools often struggle to provide even basic education, let alone teach life skills like budgeting, cooking, or other essentials for healthy living. These challenges are compounded by broader social issues, like poverty and the lack of community resources. In rural areas, people often don’t have the same support systems or access to services that many of us take for granted. All of this contributes to unique and significant health disparities for rural populations.
What are some of the biggest barriers to care in rural areas?
Many doctors are reluctant to live and work in rural areas. There’s a preference for practicing in larger cities, where the workload might seem lighter, the pay higher, and the professional environment more appealing. A lot of physicians feel intimidated by the idea of being one of only a few providers in the area, which often means long hours and limited call coverage. That level of commitment can be overwhelming, especially for those used to working in larger systems with more resources.
Some of these barriers stem from misinformation about rural practice, but others are systemic issues that we’ve created ourselves. Addressing these challenges requires intentional efforts to make rural areas more attractive and supportive for healthcare providers.
One way that OBHG is addressing these challenges is through our MHAS program. These are uniquely designed programs that can be customized based on specific hospital staffing needs to augment the current care available and prevent healthcare provider burnout and L&D unit closures. It offers options like part-time staffing, clinic support, and integration of maternal care team members like certified nurse midwives (CNMs) to support communities.
For clinicians who want to support access challenges but don’t necessarily want to relocate, the MHAS model allows them to work 5 days in a designated community and then go back to their home base.
Do you have any advice for professionals who are considering working in rural areas such as Mississippi?
One of the most significant benefits is the deep appreciation and genuine relationships you build with your patients. People in these communities value your presence and effort, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to know you’re making a meaningful impact in their lives and fostering a strong sense of community.
More practically, what most people don’t consider is that the cost of living in Mississippi is much lower than in larger metropolitan areas. You can actually be far more financially secure in Mississippi than in a more expensive area.
If you’re someone who feels called to make a difference and wants to see the immediate impact of your work, places like Mississippi offer incredible opportunities to do just that. The hospitality is real, and the opportunities to create meaningful change are everywhere.
In 2024, Dr. Connell was the recipient of OBHG’s Clinician Living the Values award. To learn more about Dr. Connell and his decision to work as an OB/GYN in an underserved state and calling to become on an OB hospitalist, click here.
Interested in learning more about OBHG’s clinical opportunities in rural areas? Submit your information here and one of our clinical recruiters will reach out.