He’s the ONLY Full-Time Pediatric Rheumatology Provider in an Entire StateWhat happens when one clinician is responsible for providing pediatric rheumatology care across an entire state?In this episode of the Take a Pain Check Podcast, Brandon Ko shares the realities of serving children and families throughout New Mexico—many of whom must overcome long travel distances, workforce shortages, financial barriers, and delayed access to specialized care.We discuss:* What it is like to be New Mexico’s sole full-time pediatric rheumatology provider* How delayed care affects children with rheumatic diseases* The challenges facing rural and underserved communities* How advanced practice providers can help address workforce shortages* Brandon’s regional partnership with Children’s Hospital Colorado* Burnout, advocacy, mentorship, and sustainable healthcare models* What policymakers and healthcare institutions must do nextHow far should a family have to travel to access essential care and what happens when only one provider is available to help?Watch the full conversation to learn how collaboration, advocacy, and innovative care models can help close the gap.Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode.Instagram: unm_pediatric_rheumatology, unmchildrens, rheumappLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/brandon-ko-pnpRhAPP organization: www.rhapp.orgTake a Pain Check's Socials:https://www.takeapaincheck.com/https://www.instagram.com/takeapaincheck_/ https://www.tiktok.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/take-a-pain-checkhttps://www.youtube.com/@takeapaincheckhttps://www.facebook.com/TakeaPainCheckhttps://www.x.com/takeapaincheckDonate today: https://www.gofundme.com/f/takeapaincheck