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37
"It is notable that the percentage of positive tests found last
year has shrunk almost to vanishing point. It would appear
therefore that the V.D. clinic has now served its purpose, and
that quite apart from any administrative difficulties the time is
very suitable for ending it.
"I would like to express my thanks to all who directly or
indirectly have helped me during the ten years the clinic has been
my charge, and I am particularly appreciative of the interest,
assistance and courtesy of the health visitors."
The clinic was closed down at the end of 1938, the last session
being held on 14th December. It was started on 15th October,
1921, and a complete record of the results of the work is summarised
on the preceding page. The reason for the closing of the clinic is
explained on pages 42-3.
Ambulance Service.
The ambulance service of the London County Council is
available at all hours for the conveyance of maternity cases to
hospital without charge, and patients entering the Borough
Maternity hospital made full use of the facilities provided.
Midwives.
At the beginning of 1938 there was only one private midwife
practising independently in the Borough, but the Borough Maternity
Hospital, St. James's Hospital and a private nursing home employed
midwives numbering in all about 14 in addition to the Borough
District Midwife.
There were, however, in addition the panel of London County
Council midwives, numbering 12 for the five boroughs (Battersea,
Bermondsey, Lambeth, Southwark and Wandsworth) comprised
in Area D. Four or five only of these 12 normally practised in
Battersea, and not till mid-year did any of them reside in Battersea.
The district practice of St. Thomas's and the General Lying-in
hospitals, as well as of one outside nursing home, also extended into
Battersea.
Compensation was paid to the one private midwife left practising
in respect of two of her patients whose confinement took place
in an institution on medical advice.
Midwives Act, 1936.
The inauguration of the salaried service of midwives established
by the London County Council under this Act took place on 1st
January, 1938, and the necessary co-operation between their
midwives and the Council's social services has been successfully
established. One immediate effect, already noted on page 35,
was the increased attendance at the ante-natal clinics. Although
for many years past these clinics have been open to any practitioner
or midwife without charge, outside the Council's own maternity