Florida Blue Center for Rural Health Research & Policy

Dr. M. Bryant Howren
Dr. M. Bryant Howren

The Florida Blue Center for Rural Health Research and Policy was established in December 2002 with a gift endowment from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida.

The center is dedicated to the advancement of quality health services and research in Florida's rural communities.

The core mission of the center includes researching and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing Florida's rural health care system, providers, and consumers.

Approximately 10% of Florida's population lives in rural communities and are adversely impacted by limited access to care and a maldistribution of physicians. The center's work helps the state better understand what Rural Florida is facing and how to address those needs.