The Specialty Training at Rural Sites (STARS) training model helps rural health care providers build specialty skills so patients can receive more care close to home.
STARS connects rural clinicians with academic physicians from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Together, they provide hands-on training in rural clinical settings so providers can learn new skills and apply them directly in their own communities.
STARS was designed in response to what rural providers said they need most: practical, in-person training and stronger professional connections. Through STARS, rural clinicians gain both specialty expertise and ongoing relationships with UW academic physicians who can offer consultation and support.
These partnerships help expand the care available in rural communities while strengthening the professional support network for rural providers.
Our Programs
STARS-Rheumatology
STARS-R prepares rural primary care providers to recognize, evaluate and manage rheumatologic and musculoskeletal conditions so patients can receive advanced care locally.
View STARS-R
STARS-Pediatric Prehospital Care
STARS-PPC provides emergency medical service providers with advanced pediatric training to help stabilize and care for critically ill or injured children during transport.
View STARS-PPC
STARS-Dermatology
STARS-D trains rural primary care providers to identify and treat common skin conditions, expanding access to dermatology care in rural communities.
View STARS-D
