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59
own initiative, are found to be suffering from conditions, other than
Tuberculosis, which require treatment. These cases are advised as to
obtaining such treatment, either from private practitioners or at general
hospitals. Many children are found to be suffering from anaemia, malnutrition
and similar diseases and are referred to the Chelsea branch
of the Invalid Children's Aid Association with a view to provision of
convalescent home treatment.
Co-operation with the School Medical Service. The relationship with
the School Medical Service continues to be satisfactory. The School
Medical Authorities frequently afford valuable help in deciding what
supervision is desirable in connection with children. Many children
are referred direct to the School Clinic for the treatment of minor ailments
and dental caries.
Co-operation with Medical Practitioners. During the year the Tuberculosis
Officer examined 51 new cases at the homes of the patients, and
72 cases were referred to him at the Dispensary by medical practitioners
in the Borough.
Insured persons under the care of local medical practitioners are
visited by the Municipal Tuberculosis Visitor.
Home Contacts. The number of home contacts of tuberculous patients
examined at the Dispensary during the year was 120, a decrease of 5
compared with the previous year. Special arrangements are made for
following up patients in cases where the diagnosis is doubtful. Such
cases are again examined at intervals and, when necessary, X-ray or
other special investigation is made. The Social Worker at the Dispensary
maintains regular observation in connection with these patients.
Artificial Pneumo-thorax Treatment. On the recommendation of the
Tuberculosis Officer, patients are supplied with refills in connection
with artificial pneumo-thorax treatment. Payment is made by the
Borough Council for these refills.
Home Nursing. The Dispensary organization includes home nursing,
which is much appreciated by such patients as are confined to bed.
During the year, the number of visits paid by Nurses to the homes of
patients was 3,131, an increase of 400 over the number for the previous
year. Sixteen cases of Tuberculosis were certified by the Tuberculosis
Officer during the year to require extra nourishment as part of their
treatment. These cases were supplied with foods such as milk, eggs,
and butter. The total cost of extra nourishment (£l9 Is. 7d.) was
borne by the Borough Council. The Council lent bedsteads and bedding
to one case during the year.
Non-pulmonary Cases. All cases in which special treatment is indicated
are assisted in obtaining admission to hospital. Others are sent to
country or seaside convalescent homes through the agency of the Invalid
Children's Aid Association.