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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 visited 32 cases (including personal consultations) at
the homes of the patients, and 105 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 Tuberculosis Visitor.
Home Contacts.—The number of home contacts of tuberculous
patients examined at the Dispensary during the year was 116, a decrease
of 17 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. During the year
eighteen patients received treatment. The total cost (£158 11s.), was
borne by the Borough Council.
Home Nursing.—The Dispensary organization includes home nursing,
which is much appreciated by such patients as are confined to bed.
The Dispensary Nurse also visits the home for observation purposes.
During the year, the number of visits paid by Nurses to the homes of
patients was 2,982, a decrease of 347 over the number for the previous
year. The Council lent a bedstead and bedding to one case during
the year.
Extra Nourishment.—Thirty-four 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
(£39 14s. 6d.) was borne by the Borough Council.
Non-Tuberculous Cases.—All cases examined at the Dispensary
in which special treatment is indicated, other than for Tuberculosis, are
assisted in obtaining such treatment at an appropriate hospital. Others
are sent to country or seaside convalescent homes through the agency
of the Invalid Children's Aid Association or other organisation.