London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Holborn 1948
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Holborn Borough]
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The total number of attendances made by the Health Visitors at both
Centres during the half-year was 413.
The sales of baby foods, milks, vitamins, drugs, etc., at the Centres had
increased to such an extent that it was found necessary to appoint staff solely
for this purpose.
Ante-Natal Hygiene.
Under the scheme for the voluntary notification of pregnancy, 28 notifications
were received during the half-year. All these expectant mothers, as well
as those already known to the Health Visitors through other sources, were
visited in their homes.
Instruction in Mothercraft and Hygiene.
This is carried out by the Health Visitors at the Centres and in the homes.
Use is made of leaflets, written in non-technical language, to supplement the
oral instruction and demonstrations.
Dental Treatment.
The following is a summary of the work for the half-year at the Council's Dental Clinic, 10, John Street, W.C.1, open on Monday afternoons for nursing or expectant mothers, and children under 5 years of age.
| Women. | Children. | Total. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of sessions held | — | — | 24 |
| Number of new patients | 27 | 18 | 45 |
| Total attendances | 124 | 53 | 177 |
Emergency Obstetric Unit.
A service was available, under an arrangement with the University College
Hospital, for possible emergencies in connection with confinements taking place
in the Borough where a blood transfusion was required.
Foot Clinic.
The Council had an arrangement with a Chiropodist for foot treatment for
expectant and nursing mothers, and mothers of children under 5 years of age,
who were referred for such treatment by the Medical Officers of the Infant Welfare
Centres. 15 patients attended for treatment during the half-year.
Child Life Protection.
On the 1st January, 1948, there were three foster mothers on the register.
Three foster mothers were registered during the half-year.