Competencies, Training Needs, and Turnover Among Rural Compared With Urban Local Public Health Practitioners

Researchers analyzed survey responses to the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interest and Needs Survey to compare rural and urban skill proficiencies, training needs, turnover risk, and experiences of bullying due to work as a public health professional. Among the findings, rural staff had higher likelihood than urban staff of reporting proficiencies in community engagement, data-based decision-making, and in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Rural staff were also more likely than urban staff to report leaving because of stress, experiences of bullying, and avoiding situations that made them think about COVID-19.