Human connection fuels medical student’s desire to serve rural Iowans

Nick Lembezeder says his education in public health and medicine at the University of Iowa is preparing him well to reach his goals - while also helping to fill a physician shortage in the state.

Story: Sara Epstein Moninger
Photography: Liz Martin
Published: Aug. 25, 2026

Growing up in eastern Iowa, Nick Lembezeder learned that caring for a rural community means more than treating illness.

It means knowing your neighbors by name, seeing your patients at the grocery store or church, and truly understanding the challenges they face before they walk into the clinic.

Today, the third-year University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine student from Peosta is planning to return to those same communities as a physician. In fact, practicing medicine in Iowa is his top priority.

"I want my career to consist of working with, and giving back to, this place and the people that made me who I am," Lembezeder says. "I want to walk down the street and wave at my neighbor, whose uncle I take care of. That's just how I see my life going."

With rural Iowa communities facing physician shortages, hospital closures, and growing health care needs, the University of Iowa is focused on giving students like Lembezeder opportunities and experiences to practice where they're needed most. Through coursework, community-based clinical training, and mentorship from physicians already serving rural Iowa, the university helps students develop strong clinical skills and an intimate appreciation for the communities they hope to serve.