Texans deserve access to care, regardless of zip code

Did you know that your zip code can influence your health and longevity as much as your lifestyle or genetics? Consider that the life expectancy of a person living in a rural area of Texas has a life span of 17 years less than someone living in an urban area, according to a 2019 analysis and interactive mapping tool produced by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center scientists. This stark reality affects many of those who live west of Interstate 35, where limited access to health care often results in higher rates of chronic illness and shorter lifespans.

At TTUHSC, we believe geography should never determine someone’s quality of life. We serve a 121-county region, covering many of Texas’ most rural and underserved areas. These communities face unique challenges, including fewer health care providers and long travel distances for basic services. We are committed to changing that by partnering with communities to solve their health care needs.

Through innovative collaborations, we bring care closer to home. Mobile clinics, telemedicine programs and rural training tracks for future health care providers are building blocks to bridge the gap. But it doesn’t stop there. We are also diving deeper to identify and address the chronic diseases that disproportionately affect this region, so we can develop targeted solutions that truly make a difference.

We are proud of our progress but know there’s more to do. Thank you for standing with us in this vital mission. Together, we are shaping the future of health — one community, one partnership and one solution at a time.