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Orthopaedics in Indian country
1Eastern Arizona Orthopaedic Clinic, Globe, AZ 85501, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|February 23, 2002
Summary
Orthopaedic surgeons provide essential care to rural Arizona communities, overcoming challenges like geographic isolation. Their presence ensures vital medical services reach the San Carlos Apache Tribe, highlighting a rewarding aspect of rural medicine.
Area of Science:
- Rural medicine
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Indigenous health
Background:
- The landscape of rural medicine in Arizona has undergone significant transformation over the past 25 years.
- Delivery of healthcare to the San Carlos Apache Tribe presents unique obstacles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges and rewards of providing orthopaedic surgical care in rural Arizona.
- To underscore the importance of orthopaedic surgeons in underserved tribal communities.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative reflection on 25 years of medical practice in rural Arizona.
- Case-based consideration of healthcare delivery to the San Carlos Apache Tribe.
Main Results:
- Rural medical practice has evolved considerably.
- Geographic isolation and cultural differences pose challenges to care delivery.
- The presence of an orthopaedic surgeon is critical for providing essential services to some patients.
Conclusions:
- Despite challenges, rural orthopaedic practice offers significant rewards.
- Orthopaedic surgeons play a crucial role in ensuring access to care for isolated populations, including Indigenous communities.