Abstract

SUMMARYAs two-thirds of all major automobile accidents occur in rural districts, it is necessary that the small hospital treat an increasing number of fracture patients.Better care of these patients can be provided by a definite fracture service or clinic.The necessary equipment need not be elaborate or expensive and is well within the financial limits of most small institutions.An orthopedic consultant can help materially in building up these clinics because of his acknowledged position of leadership in fracture work.The principal reason for this presentation is to suggest that you, as orthopedic surgeons, use your influence, offer encouragement to the small hospitals and aid them in establishing a- fracture service wherever interest is shown.I believe an investigation of the fracture clinic as operated for fourteen years at Easton will demonstrate the possibility of improving fracture treatment in the small country hospital. 208 Goldsborough Street