View report page

53
Andrews, Esq., M.A., M.D., S. Boyd, Esq., M.S., F.R.C.S.,
S. Monckton Copeman, Esq., M.D., F.R.C.P., F.R.S., L.C.C.,
L. G. Glover, Esq., M.A., M.D.) who investigate in detail all deaths
of infants under two years of age, Still Births, Maternal Deaths, and
all notified cases of Puerperal Fever and Pyrexia. In addition the
following medical officers are present, The Medical Officer of Health,
Dr. Kidd (Medical Officer of Ante-natal Clinic), Dr. Blandy and Dr.
Hall Craggs (Medical Officers of the Maternity and Child Welfare
Centres).
Prior to the meeting of the Sub-Committee the Medical Officer of
Health ascertains all particulars relating to each case coming under
review from the Health Visitors, General Practitioners, and Hospital
Medical Officers concerned. All the information obtained is treated
confidentially, and as a result of the investigations, either adjustments
of the existing administrative procedure, or other measures, are undertaken
which may prevent a recurrence of the conditions ascertained
to be the cause of the fatality.
During the course of investigation the following facts emerged,
which are of interest. Of the deaths under 2 year of age, 76 per
cent occurred in institutions; and of the 25 deaths occurring during
the first month, 20 per cent. of the mothers had not received antenatal
supervision, whilst of the 20 deaths between 2 months and one
year, 40 per cent. had never attended an infant welfare centre.
Of the 37 still births, all the mothers had received ante-natal
supervision, either by general practitioners, at hospitals, or at the
Council's Clinics,