Coordinated policies are essential for improving surgical care access.

Rural Americans face significant challenges in accessing surgical care, with a 29% decline in general surgeon availability from 2001 to 2019 intensifying disparities. The article presents actionable policy recommendations to enhance surgical care access in rural areas. Key initiatives include bolstering the rural surgical workforce, improving medical education, sustaining hospital infrastructure, and expanding telehealth resources. A strategic approach at federal and state levels is vital to ensure consistent, high-quality surgical services in underserved communities.