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It is again noted that the incidence of significant cases of tuberculosis in persons not previously
examined by Mass X-ray is considerably higher than in those who had previously been
examined i.e. .898 per 1,000 compared with .317 per 1,000 (see Table V). Every effort should
be made to attract the proportion of the population who have never been X-rayed before.
Nine cases of carcinoma of the lung (seven male and two female) were discovered during the
year — six less than in the previous year.
DOCTORS' REFERRALS
Doctors in our zone have been kept aware of the services of the Unit, and although only 256
patients were directly referred to the Unit these did not produce any active cases of tubercle.
MEDICAL PROCEDURE
As in former years, abnormal cases were referred to the appropriate Chest Clinic through
the examinee's own doctor. Cases outside the purview of a Chest Clinic were referred to St.
Bartholomew's Hospital, and the ready co-operation of Dr. N.C. Oswald and Dr. Graham Hayward
is gratefully acknowledged.
AMALGAMATION WITH UNIT 6B
As from the 1st April, 1967 the amalgamated Units 6B and 6D came under the Thames Group
Hospital Management Committee and the Administrative Offices are now at First Avenue, Plaistow,
E. 13. The amalgamation has been accomplished very smoothly and my thanks are due to all
concerned. The Regional Hospital Board have made modifications and additions to the Plaistow
Headquarters to accommodate the joint clerical and administrative staff and the large amount of
records.
CONCLUSIONS
Dr. W.D.R. Thompson, the former Medical Director of Unit 6D retired at the end of June. 1967,
and in taking over the unit I have made no change as yet in the medical arrangements for disposal
of cases, etc. All members of the staff have given loyal service and my thanks are due to them.
I would like to record my appreciation of the friendly and helpful relationships which have been
maintained with Dr. W.G. Swann, Medical Officer of Health for the City of London, and the services
rendered by the Regional Hospital Board and the Thames Group Hospital Management Committee.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE UNIT
There are no definite plans in view for any major alteration in policy, but consideration is
being given to the provision of a regular service for men in the lung cancer age groups."
Special Hostels for Tuberculous Men
1966 1967
Men resident during the year 2 2
Loan of Nursing Aids
1966 1967
Supplied by Health Department 14 33
Supplied by British Red Cross Society — City Branch 10 15
In general, small items are loaned from the British Red Cross Society, but in chronic illness
many items of equipment are required over long periods. It has now been found necessary for the
Health Department to purchase more general items of equipment as the demand increases.
The Assistant Health and Welfare Officers check the articles on loan to patients in their own
homes, to ensure that maximum advantage is obtained for the benefit of patients and relatives.
The equipment is also checked to see that it remains safe and in a useable condition.
Meals for Invalids and Sick Persons
Meals and, in some instances, special dietetic meals are delivered five days a week by the
Meals on Wheels service.
Chiropody