United Hospital Center Launches Rural Scholars Program to Combat West Virginia Physician Shortages
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on April 03, 2026
The United Hospital Center (UHC) Family Medicine Residency Program is proud to announce the launch of its Rural Scholars Program, inviting dedicated third-year medical students to apply for an enhanced fourth-year experience designed to cultivate the next generation of rural physicians in West Virginia.
With more than 50% of West Virginia counties designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), rural communities face significantly higher chronic disease rates and reduced access to care. The Rural Scholars Program aims to reverse this trend by offering a tailored curriculum, financial incentives, and a streamlined pathway into the UHC Family Medicine Residency.
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“Our mission is to establish long-term physician-community relationships and provide an exceptional level of care to rural populations,” said Eric J. Radcliffe, MD, Program Director of the UHC Family Medicine Residency Program. “By investing in students passionate about serving rural West Virginia, we are not only offering financial relief during their training, but also building a dedicated workforce to combat chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension in underserved areas.”
UHC Family Medicine Residency has a proven commitment to the region, with nearly 70% of its graduates choosing to practice within West Virginia. To be considered for the program, please visit https://forms.office.com/r/0tyNQPRxZk to submit your interest. The application deadline is April 1, 2026.
