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Home contacts are examined at the dispensary—as a rule by
special appointment. The arrangements for their attendance and their
subsequent supervision are in the hands of the Health Visitors. A
special effort is made to keep under observation the contacts of sputum
positive cases, and to re-examine them at short intervals. 1,020 contacts
have boon examined during the year.
(vii.) Information as to special methods of diagnosis and treatment
in use and the number of persons to whom these special methods have been
applied.
The X-ray apparatus is constantly in use for screen examinations.
A small number of selected cases were given nasal insufflations of
B.E. with the object of testing the efficacy of this treatment. The
insufflations were given three times a week, and very careful records
were kept over a period of from three to four months. As none of the
cases showed improvement in any direction, it was felt that the results
were not sufficiently encouraging to warrant a continuance or extension
of this form of treatment.
(viii.) The results of local experience as to the relative value of
each form of treatment.
See (vii.) above.
(ix.) The nature and extent of any dental treatment provided by
the Council for tuberculous patients.
A dental clinic has been held weekly at the Old Ford Wesleyan
Mission Hall since October, 1922, to which all cases needing dental
treatment, and for whom no provision is otherwise made, are referred
by the Tuberculosis Officer.
Cases requiring new dentures are referred to the Care Committee
tor assessment of the amount of contributions payable by the patient,
and for any assistance the Committee may be able to furnish towards
the cost. Details of the work done are given in the Dental Surgeon's
Report. (See p. 41.)
(x.) Any arrangements for the provision of nursing or of extra
nourishment for patients living at home.
Nursing where necessary for children up to 10 years of age can be
provided by the Council. No special provision is made for the nursing
older children or of adults, but the services of a district nurse
or help from a local nursing association can be obtained through the
Care Committee.