About the Center
The Center for Rural Health and Health Disparities at Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM) is dedicated to advancing health equity and improving the well-being of rural underserved populations through innovative research, training, and community engagement. In support of MUSM’s mission to improve health care access in rural Georgia, our goal is to:
By bridging research, practice, and policy, we strive to be a catalyst for positive change, working tirelessly to create a future where geography and social factors no longer determine health outcomes. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of where they live, have the opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being.
Join us in our mission to illuminate actionable opportunities and create a healthier, more equitable future for rural Georgia.
Research Highlights
Autism
Maternal health
Mental health
Substance use
Affiliated Faculty
Projects are led by dedicated faculty who are leaders in community medicine research and rural health programs. Learn more about our faculty and their particular areas of expertise.
Edson Jean-Jacques
Director of Demographic Research
Columbus
Student Research Opportunities
MUSM students are given research opportunities to enhance their educational experiences as well as develop and refine their scientific or clinical interests. With Mercer being classified as an R2 doctoral university, students have numerous opportunities to participate in high-quality basic science, clinical, and population health research. The Center for Rural Health and Health Disparities offers paid research assistantships for select Mercer PhD and MD students.