As many as 21 million of the 34 million people living in underserved rural areas are without access to a primary care provider. In areas where providers exist. there are numerous limits to access. such as geography and distance. lack of transportation. and lack of knowledge about available resources. Additionally. due to the diversity of rural populations. ranging from native Americans to migrant farm workers. language and cultural obstacles are often a factor. Compound these problems with slim financial resources and many of Americas rural communities go without vital health care. especially preventive care. Children fail to receive immunizations and routine checkups.