Trends in the Provision of Surgery by Rural Hospitals. Findings Brief.

摘要

Surgery is an important health service in rural communities. In addition to providing routine surgical services, surgeons also serve as backup for other medical specialities such as obstetrics and are essential for the treatment of many emergency and trauma patients. Surgery provision also affects the financial viability of local hospitals and the economic well-being of rural communities. For many rural hospitals, surgery is an important source of revenue and a major contributor to profitability. This findings brief describes trends in the provision of surgery by rural hospitals.