Rural doctor shortages are pushing towns like Havana, Florida, to offer unprecedented recruitment incentives. After the retirement of longtime physician Dr. Mark Newberry, this 1,750-person community now subsidizes office space, x-ray machines, and ultrasound equipment to attract a primary care doctor.
Havana leaders launched a statewide campaign highlighting its quaint Main Street, tight-knit neighborhoods, and financial support packages. 'Everything you imagine a Hallmark movie to be is where we live,' said Town Manager Kendrah Wilkerson.
'This is as vital as parks or infrastructure – our residents deserve local care.'
Florida faces a dire gap of 18,000 physicians by 2035, with rural areas hit hardest. Key challenges include:
- 30-minute commutes for elderly/low-income patients to nearest cities
- High startup costs for independent practices
- Limited med school graduates pursuing primary care roles
Only one applicant – Havana native Dr. Camron Browning – has committed so far. The town council unanimously approved negotiations with the soon-to-graduate resident, who stated:
'My goal was always to serve my hometown.'
Recruitment expert Matthew Smeltzer notes younger doctors prioritize work-life balance over urban salaries. 'Small towns can offer deeper patient connections,' he said. Havana’s $15,000 annual subsidies mirror strategies that initially drew Dr. Newberry in 1993.
Mayor Eddie Bass emphasized:
'We need a true physician who can handle it all.'With 26% of Florida counties lacking adequate primary care, Havana’s gamble could set a precedent for rural physician recruitment nationwide.