Conspiracy theories about health fill a vacuum created by the lack of doctors in Kansas and many other rural communities. Meanwhile, doctors say patients have become increasingly distrustful and sometimes hostile.

When Dr. Banu Symington first moved to Rock Springs, Wyo., 30 years ago, she appreciated its empty desert landscapes and small-town respect for physicians like herself.

Fast-forward to today.

Some of Symington's cancer patients curse at her for suggesting they vaccinate or wear masks to protect their weakened immune systems while undergoing chemotherapy.

"I actually had a patient's husband say, 'You only want me to mask because you're a liberal bitch.'"

Symington is among many doctors who say political attacks on science and medicine are affecting their relationships with pa

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