First Annual Meeting, Held in Chicago, March 30, 194
6
Purpose of Conference
Dr. F. S. Crockett, Chicago: The purpose of this conference is to seek improvement in rural medical service. Rural medical service is more than having a doctor in the community. Good housing, warm clothing, a suitable diet, together with adequate health education are important factors in maintenance of rural health. The problem is economic and social as well as professional. Given all of these, yet the well trained physician cannot operate in a professional vacuum. The good physician never ceases to improve his educational and professional skills. He must have available diagnostic resources, such as the laboratory, x-ray and an opportunity for consultation with his fellows and with those who have acquired special training, if he is to give the sort of service satisfying to his professional soul. Attracting and retaining well equipped doctors, such as returning