Rural area

Rural area

A Rural area is a geographic area that is located outside towns and cities. The Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines the word "rural" as encompassing "...all population, housing, and territory not included within an urban area. Whatever is not urban is considered rural."

Characteristics

Rural areas are characterized by their low population density and small settlements. Agricultural areas are commonly rural, as are other types of areas such as forest. Different countries have varying definitions of "rural" for statistical and administrative purposes.

Rural economy

The economy of rural areas is traditionally based on agriculture. However, in more developed countries, this is changing rapidly as more diverse industries take root in these areas.

Rural health

Rural health incorporates many fields, including geography, midwifery, nursing, sociology, economics, and telehealth or telemedicine. Research shows that healthcare needs in rural areas are different from those in urban areas, and rural areas often suffer from a lack of healthcare access.

Rural development

Rural development generally refers to the process of improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas, often relatively isolated and sparsely populated areas.

See also

• Urban area
• Suburban area
• Rural sociology
• Rural flight
• Rural health