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41
Gas was administered by the Tuberculosis Officer on 13 occasions,
the number of patients being 21. Dentures are supplied free to
necessitous patients, whilst others contribute according to their
means, the amount of such contributions being determined by the
Public Health Committee. Of 15 dentures supplied
7 were provided free by the Council;
1 was provided by the Ministry of Pensions;
1 was provided by the Charity Organisation Society;
whilst 6 patients made part payments amounting to £6 15s., the
total amount falling on the Council being £52 17s. 6d.
Some difficulty is experienced in inducing the younger patients
to submit to dental treatment, but as the importance of such treatment
is impressed upon each patient, it is hoped that such objections
will in time pass away. A number of patients had treatment by
their own dentist.
The Interim Tuberculosis Care Committee.—Reference
has already been made to the importance of After-care, and in spite
of many difficulties it must be acknowledged that the Interim
Tuberculosis Care Committee has rendered most valuable assistance.
The work that is done in visiting, encouraging and assisting patients
and their relatives cannot be shown on paper, but is nevertheless
very real and much appreciated by the patients. I am indebted
to the courtesy of the Hon. Secretary (Miss Johnston) for the
following information which shows that with funds this Committee
could render great practical assistance. At present the Committee
have to rely on the voluntary contributions of a few interested
people.
During the year the Committee—
Supplied Milk for 4 patients for 3 months.
Provided 5 Bedsteads, with Blankets.
Provided Clothing for 2 patients going to Sanatorium.
Provided Surgical Boots for 1 patient.
Provided allowances for 2 families whilst the parent was
in the Sanatorium.
Numerous efforts were made to provide employment for
patients unfit for their ordinary work, but without much success,
due, no doubt, in great measure to the wave of unemployment
throughout the district.
The four open-air shelters belonging to the Dispensary and
provided by the Council were in constant use throughout the year,
and a number of air cushions have now been obtained and are in
frequent demand by advanced cases.