November 21, 2025
One of the many goals of MobileMOC is to develop a strong, skilled healthcare workforce which will be key to improving health access and care in rural communities. Across Tennessee, rural populations face unique challenges from limited healthcare resources, transportation barriers, to higher rates of chronic disease along with the many closures of rural hospitals. That’s why hands-on training and experiential learning for future healthcare professionals is essential.
We are proud to collaborate with students from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, including Occupational Therapy (OT) students and Master of Public Health (MPH) students. These partnerships provide students with invaluable real-world experience while directly benefiting the communities we serve.
OT Students: Our OT students engage with older adults and other community members to address mobility, independence, and overall functional health. By working in rural clinics and community centers, they gain exposure to challenges unique to rural healthcare delivery and learn strategies to make meaningful impacts.
MPH Students: Our MPH students bring health education and public health expertise into rural communities. From leading educational programming at senior centers to assisting with screenings and wellness programs, these students learn how to translate classroom knowledge into practical, community-focused interventions.
Through these experiences, students develop clinical skills, communication skills, and an understanding of the social determinants of health that affect rural populations. At the same time, local residents benefit from additional support, education, and access to services that promote healthy aging and overall well-being.
Investing in Rural Health Futures
Workforce development is more than training. It’s about building a pipeline of professionals dedicated to rural healthcare. By giving students meaningful opportunities to serve in rural communities, we are helping to ensure that older adults and underserved populations receive the care they need, while also preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders.