The Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship is a specialized program that supports medical students and residents pursuing rural clinical training in anesthesia.
This scholarship provides financial assistance for students to complete rotations in underserved rural hospitals under the guidance of experienced anesthesiologists.
By funding rural clinical experiences, the Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship helps address the shortage of anesthesia providers in low-resource areas.
This hands-on exposure allows future physicians to gain valuable insight into rural healthcare delivery while serving communities in need.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible applicants must be third- or fourth-year medical students or anesthesiology residents currently enrolled in an accredited program in the United States.
Applicants must also be members of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), which administers the scholarship.
To qualify, students must secure a mentor from the ASA’s rural rotation mentor directory prior to submitting their application.
The mentor will supervise and evaluate the student’s clinical activities during the rural rotation.
Financial Support Provided by the Scholarship
The Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship offers up to $500 per recipient to help cover travel, lodging, and living expenses.
An initial stipend of $250 is disbursed upon acceptance into the program.
The remaining $250 is reimbursed after the student completes the rural rotation and submits the required documentation.
This support helps reduce financial barriers that often prevent students from choosing rural placements.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
There are four application cycles each year, with deadlines on January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1.
Interested applicants must first contact and confirm a rural mentor who will oversee their clinical experience.
After securing a mentor, applicants must complete the official ASA application form and include all required materials.
Submissions can be sent by email, mail, or fax to the ASA Medical Student Component.
Notifications of award status are typically issued at least 30 days before the rotation start date.
What to Expect During the Rural Rotation
Recipients of the Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship engage in real-world clinical training within rural hospital settings.
They work alongside practicing anesthesiologists, gaining hands-on experience in operating rooms, preoperative care, and postoperative management.
Students may also assist with pain management and critical care services depending on the site’s resources.
At the end of the rotation, both the student and mentor must submit evaluation forms to qualify for full reimbursement.
These experiences help participants understand the unique challenges and rewards of rural anesthesiology practice.
Why the Scholarship Matters
Many rural communities lack sufficient anesthesia coverage, which can delay or limit access to surgical care.
The Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship encourages future physicians to consider rural practice by offering early exposure.
This not only builds clinical skills but also fosters long-term interest in serving medically underserved populations.
Scholarship participants frequently report increased confidence and commitment to rural healthcare after their rotations.
The program plays a key role in strengthening the anesthesia workforce in high-need areas.
Feedback from Past Participants
Previous recipients have described the rural rotation as transformative and highly educational.
Many noted the tight-knit, collaborative environment in rural hospitals and the opportunity to perform diverse clinical tasks.
Some students said the experience helped clarify their career path and inspired them to work in rural or community-focused settings.
Mentors also report that scholarship students contribute positively to their clinical teams and bring fresh perspectives.
Where to Get More Information
Students interested in the Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship should visit the official American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) website.
Questions can be directed to the ASA Medical Student Component via email at medicalstudentcomponent@asahq.org.
Additional resources, including a list of eligible rural mentors, are available online.
Applicants are encouraged to start the process early to meet application deadlines and secure mentor approval.
Final Thoughts
The Rural Access to Anesthesia Care Scholarship offers an excellent opportunity for medical students and residents to explore rural practice.
By supporting educational experiences in underserved areas, the program helps build a stronger, more equitable anesthesia workforce.
If you’re passionate about anesthesia and interested in rural healthcare, this scholarship can help you gain the training and exposure you need.
Consider applying today and take a meaningful step toward making a difference in rural communities.