View report page

Domiciliary Midwifery.
The number of midwives in private practice who notified the
London County Council of their intention to practise in the Borough
during the year was 30.
The number of births attended by midwives was 876, which
represents 28.9 per cent, of the total births notified during the
year.
Payment of Midwives Fees.
The Council's Maternity and Child Welfare Scheme provides
for payment of the whole or part of the fee of a midwife for
professional services rendered to an indigent mother at the time of
confinement.
During the year the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee
authorised payment of a midwife's fee in 4 instances following
investigation into the economic circumstances of the applicant.
Compensation to Midwives for Loss of Patients.
The Council makes a compensation payment of 10s. to a midwife
for the loss of a patient who for medical reasons is recommended
to enter hospital for her confinement. There were however
no such payments made during 1936.
Provision of Maternity Outfits.
During the year 47 applications were received from expectant
mothers for the issue of a sterile maternity outfit. In 33 cases the
outfit was supplied free of cost, in 5 instances at half-cost, and in
9 cases at cost price.
Home Helps.
In 1935, the Council decided to provide a service of home helps
at the homes of patients during pregnancy and at the time of
childbirth.
During the year 21 applications were received and, except in
one instance, Home Help Services were provided by the Council.
In 11 cases part of the cost of the service provided was recovered
from the patient.
Convalescent Home Treatment for Expectant and Nursing
Mothers and Children under School Age.
Under the Council's Scheme patients for this service who desire
convalescent treatment are required to be recommended to the
appropriate Committee by the Medical Officers of Infant Welfare
Centres.