Resources for the care of arthritics in a nonmetropolitan community

Abstract

All professional, institutional, and administrative resources available to persons with musculoskeletal disabilities, including arthritis, were surveyed in a large nonmetropolitan community. Access to such resources and their residual capacity to serve local arthritics was determined. The resources appeared adequate as was the access, but the referral pattern was poorly developed. Most of the physicians in the community did not perceive a need for a trained rheumatologist practicing in the community.