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DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT CLINIC
Almost three years ago a combined local authority and hospital assessment clinic
was set up for the detection of al1 defects which might be present, i.e. defects of
function, development and behaviour and the social limitations interfering with or
preventing normal development of children.
The Assessment Clinic is based at the London Hospital Children's Outpatients
Department, where a clinic for children with cerebral palsy was already in existence.
The clinic functions on one day a week, and although it serves mainly Tower Hamlets,
children from neighbouring boroughs are also seen.
Increasing numbers of chi1dren are being referred by the local authority medical
officers, following consent having been obtained from the family doctor,and by
consultant paediatricians from other hospitals in the borough, as more doctors, health
visitors and social workers concerned in the care of these children realise the value
of early assessment, treatment and training of bo th physical1y and mental 1 yhand i capped
children. Assessments prior to adoption have been undertaken for the Children's
Department of the local authority.
The staff of the Assessment Clinic consists of a Consultant Paediatrician,
a Principal Medical Officer of the Health Department, a Psychologist, two Physiotherapists,
an Occupational Therapist, a Speech Therapist, a Medical Social Worker,
Health Visitor and a Nursing Sister (see photographs)
Apart from diagnostic assessments, follow-up assessments are made to ensure
comprehensive continuing c are which includes parent guidance,pounsel1ijig and integration
of efforts of all concerned.
A child with a physical handicap e.g. cerebral palsy, and his/her parents, receive
any necessary help and supervision by the physiotherapists and occupational therapist,
who also obtain any special equipment or appliance considered necessary for the child.
The Principal Medical Officer and the Health Visitor co-ordinate the work of
the clinic and health department, ensuring that these children, who are placed on
the Observation Register, receive continuing support from the community. Any help
that can be given by local authority facilities is recommended e.g. attendance at a
day nursery, creche, play group, nursery school or special care unit of the junior
ing school. Special educational help is required for some children.
FAMILY PLANING
Family planning sessions conducted on behalf of the Counci1 by the Fami1y PIanning
Association are held at three of the Council's Clinic Centres, 340 sessions being
held during the year. In addition. Council sessions staffed by Medical Officers and
Health Visitors are operated at a further three clinic centres The Council providesa
domiciliary service particularly for families with multiple, social, or other
hand icaps.
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