Medically Underserved Areas
Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs) are regions in the United States where residents have limited access to healthcare services. These areas often face shortages of healthcare providers, such as doctors and nurses, making it difficult for people to receive necessary medical care. MUAs can be found in both urban and rural settings, affecting various populations.
The designation of MUAs is determined by factors like population-to-provider ratios, income levels, and health status indicators. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) identifies these areas to help allocate resources and improve healthcare access for underserved communities.