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73
The work of the Dispensary is shown in the statistical
tabic on page 80 and explains itself.
Sanatorium Treatment.—During the year 136 patients
were sent to sanatoria, 87 under the County Scheme, 48 through
the Guardians, and 1 through other sources. The average
duration of residence was three months, but the same difficulties
remain in finding suitable employment for those discharged fit
for work. Two patients entered more than once.
In addition, 63 children are attending the Open-Air Schools
at Shooters Hill and Brent Knoll, and are all doing remarkably
well. The Open-Air School brings practically all the advantages
of the Sanatorium to the immediate homes of the children
without in any way breaking with the home life or interrupting
their education. They are or should be the schools of the future.
The children are all periodically examined at the Dispensary, in
addition to the supervision of the School Medical Officer.
X-Ray Examinations.—During the year, 279 patients were
examined at the Greenwich and Deptford Hospital. Of these,
212 were adults, and 67 children. The parts examined were
Chest 246, Other 28.
Sputum Examinations.—Of 376 sputum specimens bacteriologically
examined at the Seamen's Hospital, 82 proved positive.
At the same time, 141 specimens were examined at the Dispensary
for Albumen, 57 being positive.
Tuberculosis Care Committee.
The Public Health Committee acted as this Committee
during the year, and Miss Johnston, the Honorary Secretary,
supplies the following brief information—information which
falls far short of the actual amount of work done and assistance
rendered:—
"The Societies mentioned last year continue to render
financial and other assistance to patients recommended from the
Dispensary, e.g.. 25 patients received gifts of clothing on proceeding
to Sanatorium, 8 bed or bedding to relieve sleeping
accommodation at home, 4 were given letters for convalescent
treatment and several received extra nourishment.
To find employment of a suitable nature for returned
sanatorium patients is our great difficulty and at the present
time an almost hopeless task. The Borough Council have again
this year taken two patients on their temporary staff, whilst
another patient has been placed on the permanent establishment
after 12 months' probation.