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46
The number of doctor sessions during the year was 1,227 an average of
23-24 a week.
Five additional doctor sessions were started during the year and arrangements
were made for five further sessions to open early in 1972.
The domiciliary service to bring advice and supplies to women in their
own homes was also expanded during the year. 349 patients were seen of
whom 205 were new cases. The figures for 1970 were 244 and 166.
This service to 349 patients required 580 doctor visits and 907 nurse
visits, an expensive exercise but very well worthwhile because most of these
mothers were reluctant to go to the family planning clinics, some too shy, some
too feckless, but most of them just weighed down and depressed by having to
look after several small children - often without a husband to help and support
them. Each case was specially recommended by a health visitor or social
worker, and the applications were approved by a principal medical officer in
the health department. Not one application was refused during the year.
Towards the end of 1971 a working party was set up in the borough to plan
a completely free and greatly expanded service to start in 1972 and to make
arrangements for taking over the service in stages from the Family Planning
Association.
Dr. M.P. Elman
Principal Medical Officer
THE CHIEF NURSING OFFICER'S REPORT
1971 was an eventful year for the Nursing Services. Due to the setting-up
of the newly formed Social Services Directorate a gradual hand-over of
responsibility for a variety of work took place. Relationships with former
nursing colleagues changed from line management to nursing advice.
On 1st April we welcomed the District Nurses to the staff of the Borough.
Miss L. Baker and Miss E. Keatley, formerly Superintendent and Deputy
Superintendent respectively of the former Lambeth District Nursing Association
retired after ensuring the smooth transition of the service.
While all these changes were taking place, a new Nursing Management
Structure was introduced to meet the changed needs. The responsibility for
Health Education remained with the Chief Nursing Officer.