MSU medical student inspires the next generation of rural health professionals
November 20, 2024
Growing up in Potterville, Michigan, Taryn Hayes witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by rural residents when it comes to accessing health care. Her work as a therapist for children with autism, a pediatric mental health coach, and a yoga instructor solidified her desire to support vulnerable populations.
“Having the opportunity to give back to a rural community similar to the one that I grew up in drives my motivation to pursue rural medicine,” said Hayes. “There is clearly a need for rural health care providers, and I want to actively be a part of the solution.”
This led to her joining the College of Human Medicine, where she channeled her passion into action by becoming president of Michigan’s Hometown Healers (MHH). The student-run organization encourages rural high school girls to consider careers in medicine through mentorship and educational events.
“This is an organization I wish I had access to when I was in high school,” Hayes said, noting that as a first-generation student, she had to navigate the pre-medical journey largely on her own. Her role allows her to provide the mentorship she lacked, inspiring young women from rural communities to pursue health care careers.
Under Hayes’ leadership, Michigan’s Hometown Healers is hosting its first large group mentor-mentee event. This event will not only connect students with their mentors but also provide valuable insights into the journey toward becoming a physician. During the meeting, attendees will learn about primary care specialties such as Family Medicine and Pediatrics, fields that are critical to addressing health disparities in rural areas.
Looking ahead, MHH aims to expand its reach by connecting with more rural high schools and fostering a larger community of aspiring health care professionals.
After graduation, Hayes aspires to be a physician who is actively engaged in her community, building trust with her patients and ensuring health care is accessible to all. “I want to serve as a doctor, educator, and advocate for all my patients,” she said. Beyond the clinic walls, she hopes to implement public health initiatives and disease prevention strategies tailored to rural populations.
For Hayes, addressing health care disparities in rural communities means finding practical solutions to logistical and financial barriers. Many people in her hometown have had to travel long distances and take time off work to receive quality health care. Those are some of the challenges Hayes is committed to addressing as a future rural physician.
“For those that are considering rural medicine, start exploring now! If you can shadow or complete an away rotation in a rural community, take advantage of it. Network with rural physicians and hear more about their experiences and why they chose to practice in a rural area.”
Hayes’ journey exemplifies what it means to be a Michigan Hometown Healer and a future physician committed to rural health. Through her work, she is making a lasting impact on her community while inspiring the next generation of rural health care professionals.
Hayes is part of our Rural Community Health Program (RCHP) and will complete her rural training at our Midland campus in her third and fourth years. For more information or to get involved with Michigan’s Hometown Healers as a mentor, please reach out to michiganshometownhealers@gmail.com.
By Nadija Kadunic
Celebrating Rural Medicine
Throughout the college's 60-year history, medical students and residents have trained in underserved rural communities across Michigan. The Leadership in Rural Medicine programs offer unique rural medicine experiences that prepare and empower our graduates to serve these populations as physicians.