District Digest: Working on Wellness: The Rural Health and Employment Link

Surekha Carpenter, Bethany Greene and Stephanie Norris

Econ Focus, 2026, vol. 26, issue Q1/Q2, 26-31

Abstract: Adverse health events can be disruptive to employment. A health shock, such as suffering an injury or developing a chronic condition, can limit an individual's ability to perform the physical and mental demands of work, potentially leading to lower productivity, fewer hours, and even a labor force exit. But the relationship between health and employment doesn't end there — employment outcomes also influence health outcomes. Employment is a key social determinant of health, supporting well-being through financial stability and access to employer-provided health insurance. For some, workplace conditions can increase individual exposure to health risks.

Keywords: Small Town and Rural Communities; Employment and labor markets; rural workforce and education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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