The rural family doctor in the emergency room

Abstract

Thus article reviews medical literature that discusses the knowledge and skills in emergency medicine that a family physician practicing in rural areas should possess. Additionally, an emergency medicine physician shares recommendations for rural family physicians based on an epidemiologic study looking at chief complaints conducted in a small hospital in rural Ecuador.

Methodology: A brief review of the medical literature was conducted regarding recommendations for family physicians working in small emergency departments in rural hospitals in the United States. Subsequently, an experience of working in a rural hospital emergency department is shared. Finally, suggestions are made for the formation of family physicians in rural Ecuador.

Results: A review of the medical literature indicates a a shortage of residency trained emergency medicine physicians in rural United States, and the impact a well-trained rural family physician can have with knowledge and skills in emergency medicine care. Some of these skills are mentioned in the Ecuadorian context through a reflection from a rural hospital in the Northwest Pichincha province. Suggestions for the formation of rural family physicians include: ultrasound skills, advanced life support skills, a strong understanding of the healthcare system to better navigate it.

Conclusion: The shortage of residency trained emergency medicine physicians in rural areas is common worldwide. A strategy to train rural family physicians with knowledge and skills in emergency medicine exists in various countries and should be considered in Ecuador.