Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences is once again ranked No. 1 in the nation for placing graduates in areas with limited access to health care, according to new data from U.S. News & World Report.
The ranking highlights the school’s continued focus on training physicians to serve rural and underserved communities across Oklahoma, where access to care remains a major challenge.
#1 National ranking for shortage areas
The school holds the top spot in the country for placing graduates in areas where access to health care is limited.
These include rural communities and regions often described as medical deserts.
3 Consecutive years at No. 1
Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences has ranked first in the nation for three straight years for graduates working in health care shortage areas.
Officials say the consistency reflects a long-term focus on training doctors to serve rural and underserved populations.
8th Ranking for rural placement
OSU-CHS ranks eighth in the nation for placing graduates in rural communities.
This ranking highlights the school’s role in addressing care gaps outside major metro areas.
13th Ranking for primary care
The school is ranked thirteenth nationally for primary care placement.
Leaders say this supports broader efforts to strengthen front-line health services across the state.
60%: Oklahomans living in medical deserts
According to U.S. News and World Report, more than 60 percent of people in Oklahoma live in areas with limited access to health care. A report from the Cicero Institute shows 75 of 77 counties are designated as health professional shortage areas.
School leaders say that reality underscores the need for continued focus on workforce development.
Sept. 30 to Oct. 2: Rural Health Conference dates
The 2026 Oklahoma Rural Health Conference is scheduled for Sept. 30 through Oct. 2 at the Stony Creek Hotel in Broken Arrow.
Officials say the event will focus on solutions to ongoing provider shortages.
Why these numbers matter
Dean Natasha Bray says the school’s mission goes beyond simply increasing physician numbers.
“Our work is really concentrated on not only getting access to physicians but getting access to physicians who understand the unique dynamics of those communities so that they’re part of the community, they’re providing health care that aligns to the community values and that they’re really thinking in terms of these being our friends, family and neighbors so that we make sure that every person no matter where they live in Oklahoma has access to healthcare,” she said.
Leaders say the nation is expected to face a physician shortage in the coming years, making these placements critical for communities across Oklahoma.
