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However, the communities were welcoming, which made the efforts worthwhile -- most of the midwives who had served the population were so old that they "turned their practices over to us with sighs of relief" she wrote (Breckenridge 1954, p.256).
Breckenridge's story indicates the importance of access and availability of healthcare for rural populations. Specialists "came to the mountains" since their residents could not (Breckenridge 1954, 257). Many of Breckenridge's patients had illnesses, such as cataracts, that could be easily remedied by doctors, but could severely inhibit the life of the sufferer if they were left untreated. Medical, dental, and other clinics were created to ensure that healthcare appointments became a part of the community's life, not something extraordinary undertaken only in dire circumstances, after a treatable condition had become chronic.
Even today, many isolated areas of America lack access to even basic healthcare, including prenatal care. Navigating the logistics of healthcare delivery can be a challenge. Breckenridge used horses to reach her patients. Regardless of what means are deployed -- even electronic visits with patients via the Internet today -- it is essential that contact is maintained between locals and the healthcare profession. Although much has changed since Breckenridge's day, it is still particularly critical that gynecological information is transmitted to sexually active populations, about...
In this area of medicine, misinformation still often abounds, as it did in Breckenridge's day.
Breckenridge's autobiography is not simply a list of cases over the course of her life as a nurse. She paints a portrait of her early life, even her own birth, to illustrate how much has changed in the modern science and art of nursing and midwifery. She also shows how her charismatic persona was effective in generating donations and interest for an often-overlooked population. Before Breckenridge turned a spotlight upon the health needs of rural Americans, many did not care or know about the sick and the young she helped. But Breckenridge is also careful to note that her success was not possible without considerable organizational support and mobilization of large numbers of physicians, nurses, and other volunteers. Today, when donations are less plentiful and healthcare costs are even higher because of advances in modern medicine, it is essential that nurses learn from Breckenridge's example. Using the most modern technology, creating an established network of preventative and regular caregivers, and above all facilitating transportation and connections between providers and patients is demanded to continue to progress in healthcare delivery for rural populations.
References
Breckenridge, Mary. (1981). Wide neighborhoods: A story of the frontier nursing service.
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