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Attention is directed to the fact that of the total number
(919) no fewer than 522 were sent by the Tuberculosis nurses as
a result of their visits to the homes of notified cases. These 522
cases were all "contacts," and that such a large number were
induced to submit to examination is a high testimony to the
patience and tact of the nurses concerned. Of these contacts, 86, or
16 per cent., were found on examination at the Dispensary to be
suffering from Tuberculosis. The importance attached to the
examination of contacts cannot be over-estimated. It is one of
the chief functions of the Dispensary and an important point of
attack in the prevention of infection.
I append a Statistical Table in the form designed by the Ministry
of Health for the Metropolitan Boroughs to show the work carried
out in connection with the various Dispensaries. The Table explains
itself, but it may be remarked here that of the 94 patients diagnosed
as suffering from Pulmonary Tuberculosis, many were already in
the second stage of the disease at the time of examination, too late
to look for much improvement.
During the year, 82 patients were referred to Sanatorium, 9 to
Hospital, and 4 to the Infirmary. Of the 82 Sanatorium patients,
9 were admitted for their second time, and 1 for the third time.
The average duration of residence was 8 weeks, but it is unfortunate
to note that 25 patients discharged themselves, and against medical
advice. On the other hand, 5 patients, chiefly ex-Service men,
were discharged for disciplinary reasons. As to the results of
Sanatorium treatment, nearly all the patients were discharged with
general health greatly improved, while as to working capacity, 38
were reported "fit" for work, the remainder unfit. Treatment
at the Dispensary, especially during the early part of the year, was
mainly symptomatic, no special treatment being possible owing to
the changes incident to Dr. Dart's resignation.
During the year 208 specimens of sputum sent from the Dispensary
were examined at the Bacteriological Laboratory of the
Seamen's Hospital, with the following results: Positive 57, negative
151.
Dental Treatment. By arrangement between the Borough
Council and the British Dentists' Hospital, a dentist attends the
Dispensary once a fortnight for examination of such patients as
are referred to him by the Tuberculosis Officer. Details of the work
carried out in 1920 are as follows :—
Number of patients referred to Dentist 62
Number of attendances made by patients 165
Number of Extractions 38
Number of Fillings 11
Number of Dentures supplied 15