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52
Prevention of Tuberculosis.—In connection with preventive work in respect
of tuberculosis, the Dispensary, which has now been part of the Borough tuberculosis
scheme since April, 1921, continued to prove most valuable, the members of the
staff rendering excellent service.
Particulars with regard to patients dealt with during the year are shown in a
table at page 55, while the following short table summarizes the information as to
visits paid by members of the staff:—
No. of visits by Tuberculosis Officer New, 84 Old, 360
No. of cases at Dispensary New, 360 Old, 2,100
No. of attendances at Dispensary 4,080
No. of visits by Miss Baker First visit, 231 Re-visits, 1,717
No. of visits by Miss Bartleet First visit, 165 Re-visits, 1,052
No. of Committee Meetings attended 26
The Tuberculosis Care Committee continued to meet fortnightly throughout
the year, Dr. Saner, Miss Baker and Sister Bartleet attending and assisting in every
way possible.
The Open Air School in Regent's Park, which was established in 1911, the
Dispensary Committee continued to run during the year. The number of children
on the roll was 28—13 boys and 15 girls—and the attendances numbered 8,260.
Dr. Saner, who has been Medical Officer of the School since he took office at the
Dispensary, continued to act in this capacity.
The following short note by the Tuberculosis Officer (Dr. Saner) contains
reference to a number of points that may be of interest.
"The figures as to the work done at the Dispensary are embodied in the General
Report, except those referring to the number of re-examinations of patients about
whom information is required by the Ministry of Pensions or the London County
Council, and those who at their first attendance are labelled 'Suspects.' These
examinations total just over 700. In connection with the treatment of tuberculosis
little more has been advanced during the year of tested value, although if one can be
guided by announcements in the newspapers under imposing headlines one should
have a cure at hand for all forms of tuberculosis, especially of the pulmonary type.
It seems a pity that the newspapers should, particularly in regard to such a condition
as consumption, advertise methods of cure which, so far, have not received confirmation
of their efficiency by competent authorities. It gives the consumptive, who is only
too willing to try anything that promises relief, a false impression and a forlorn hope.
This refers chiefly to the more advanced cases. Amongst the patients who attend
the Dispensary there are many who think, because they have found the statement in
a newspaper, that it must be true, and do not understand why any special treatment
vaunted in the press has not been broadcasted to every dispensary for their benefit.
The process of undeceiving a patient thus misled is unpleasant, but as a rule he