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large total might not suffice for the needs of a great epidemic of
scarlet-fever; it is rare, however, to have two zymotic diseases
epidemically prevalent at the same time; and as Gore Farm, intended
originally for convalescents from small-pox, has, in the abeyance of
that disease, been used for convalescent fever patients, so, in case
of emergency, the bulk of the beds at the Joyce Green small-pox
hospitals, might be utilised for a like purpose, should Gore Farm
become a Sanatorium.
Are the Hospitals likely to be wanted for Small-pox. — I have been
asked, What about small-pox, should there be a serious epidemic?
This question, I think, need not trouble us, for at Joyce Green, and
lands adjacent to the pier and landing stage at Long Reach, there are,
or soon will be, upwards of 2,000 beds, in three hospitals—provided at
a cost of half a million sterling— and abundant spaces for more, if
needed, the estate comprising more than 300 acres. But never since
1871, my first year of office; have there been so many as 2,000 patients
under treatment at any one time; and since 1886, when the plan of
removing sufferers from small-pox out of London—initiated on my
recommendation in 1881 —was perfected, the largest number of
patients in hospital, at any one time, was 1,600, in 1902, the next
highest total being 593 in 1893.
The Nati onal Aspect of the Movement. — The work, by whatsoever
body or bodies performed, is clearly one of National importance, and
if evidence were wanting of the beneficial results likely to accrue
from it, reference might be made to the experience of Prussia.
In that country all workers are required to insure their lives;
and the Insurance Companies have found it worth their while to
establish Sanatoria for sufferers from consumption— to the extent of
7,000 beds. The average duration of stay in hospital of each patient
is three months, some 30,000 cases being admitted in the year. The
time spent in hospital is devoted not merely to treatment, but also to
educative work, the sufferers being taught how to manage themselves
and carry on their "cure" after leaving. It is stated, on authority,
that 87.7 per cent, of the cases are cured, or improved in health: 67.3
per cent. of them so as to be fully restored to work; another 7.1 per
cent, becoming fully capable of work, other than that of their previous
occupation, and that 14.6 per cent. become capable of partially resuming
work; whilst only 11.0 percent. leave the hospitals in a state
so as not to be able to earn their living.
These statistics were published in The Times, 21st October, in an
article on "Industrial Conditions in Germany."
The Legal Aspect of the Case. It having been asked, whether the
Managers could give effect to my views under existing circumstances?