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There are two pleasing aspects of the 1970 statistics. The total number of women tested was
the highest since the scheme started and, for the first time, there was a numerical preponderance
of tests, even if slight, in the 40-50 age group. Having said this however, it is probably true to say
that the majority of women eligible for the test have still not availed themselves of it. In 1966 it
was estimated that there were 57,630 women between the ages of 25 and 65 in the Borough. Since
then 12,268 tests, many of them re-tests, have been carried out at the Borough's local authority
cytology clinics. It is estimated that nearly 12,000 tests have been carried out since 1966 at nonlocal
authority clinics or surgeries on Bexley women. Even if all these tests were first-timers
(approximately 24,000) it can be seen that more than half have not been tested. Looked at in
another way, only about 12½% of eligible women in the Borough were tested in 1970. At that rate
only about 37Vi% would be completed by the time a re-test was due if the interval between tests
were still to remain at 3 years. There is obviously room for increased health education.

HOUSING
A very good relationship exists between the Housing Department and this Department and a
scheme for priority re-housing on medical grounds has been worked out which seems to work well.
Every housing applicant when completing an application form states if he considers that he
is eligible for re-housing on medical grounds. If this is confirmed this department is informed.
The applicant is then approached by this department to consent to information being obtained
from his general practitioner and/or consultant. Special forms have been designed stating the type
of condition for which priority can be obtained and most doctors amplify by personal comments.
The final decision is reached after a visit by a Senior Medical Officer in all those cases recommended.
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