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3. That a definite organisation should exist for the detection
of the disease at the earliest possible moment.
4. That, within practicable limits, the best methods of
treatment should be available for all those suffering from the
disease.
5. That, concurrently, with the measures for the prevention;
detection, and treatment, provision should be made for
increasing the existing knowledge of the disease, and the
methods for its prevention, detection, and cure by way of
research."
The Committee further recommend that for the prevention,
detection, and treatment of the disease, existing Public Health
administration should be supplemented by the establishment
and equipment of two units linked up to the general public health
and medical work now carried on, and working in harmony with
the general practitioner. The first unit consists of the tuberculosis
dispensary. The second unit consists of institutions in which
in-patient treatment is given.
The "dispensary unit" which consists of the dispensary,
acting in co-operation with the private practitioners of the district,
deals with patients resident in their own homes; and must provide
for the diagnosis of cases suspected to be tuberculous, recommendation
as to treatment, and provision of actual treatment for
those persons who can be suitably treated in connection with the
dispensary.
The functions of a tuberculosis dispensary should be to serve
as:—
1. Receiving house and centre of diagnosis.
2. Clearing house and centre for observation.
3. Centre for curative treatment.
4. Centre for the examination of "contacts."
5. Centre for after care.
6. Information bureau and educational centre.