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74
that this aspect of the problem is receiving increased attention
as is apparent from the increasing number of tuberculosis dispensaries
and increased hospital and sanatorium provision for
dealing with the disease.
In October, 1911, a tuberculosis dispensaiy was opened in
the Borough by the Mayor (Councillor J. Astill, J.P.). The dispensary
was established by voluntary effort, and promises to be a
useful factor in the measures, both preventive and curative, which
are being carried on in Battersea. The initial expenditure has
been small as no building had to be erected, an ordinary dwellinghouse
in a central part of the Borough being taken and provided
with the necessary fittings. The upkeep of course of such an
institution must necessarily be annually a considerable item of
expense.
The dispensary is intended to be a centre for diagnosis and
treatment as well as a clearing house for the distribution of cases.
It is to be in close touch with the medical officer of health, and
with other bodies engaged in promoting the health and social welfare
of the community. There can be no doubt that if the institution
is conducted on these lines satisfactory results must follow. It is,
however, important to bear in mind that a tuberculosis dispensary
per se, is unlikely to produce the best results. As was pointed out
in a report presented by me to the Council in December, 1908 (vide
Ann. Report) the dispensary should be an important adjunct to the
other preventive measures carried on in the district of the local
authority and all of which should be in my opinion directly under
the control of the sanitary authority. The measures which received
the favourable consideration of the health committee to the Council
in connection with this report were.
1. An effective and uniform system of notification.
2. A rigid supervision of the food supply.
3. The effective application of the Public Health and Housing
Acts in connection with insanitary property.
4. The provision of sanatoria and dispensaries for the diagnosis
and treatment &c., of suitable cases.
5. The removal of advanced cases to special infirmaries and
isolation wards.
The views of the Council advocating an effective and coordinated
national scheme for fighting consumption have since
been endorsed by the action of Parliament in providing funds
for sanatorium benefit in the National Insurance Act, and of the