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Dr. Madigan has sent me this report on the work of the Chest
Clinics:—
Our greatest problem, as in previous years, is the lack of sufficient
sanatorium and hospital beds for treating cases of tuberculosis. The
numbers of such beds fall far short of what is required; consequently
large waiting lists accumulate, and many patients have a considerable
time to wait before admission can be secured.
There have been great advances in the treatment of tuberculosis
since the onset of chemotherapy, which has given great help in getting
earlier control over the disease. It has added tremendously to the
clinical work, in view of the frequent treatments necessary. Chemotherapy
has shown the weakness of the dearth of Thoracic Surgeons
in the Country, as patients are made ready for surgery much quicker by
this form of treatment. Unfortunately, however, they still have to
wait between eighteen months to two years in the majority of cases
before surgical treatment is available for them.
Advances in the treatment of tuberculosis have thrown a great
strain on the Health Visitors. Where formerly their duties were home
visitation, propaganda, and prevention and helping patients and their
families in their day to day problems, their services are now very much
in demand for active treatment measures, such as artificial pneumothorax,
etc. The great increase in this form of treatment has made it
necessary for an appeal to be made for more Health Visitors.
Tiberculosis Care Committee.
The Voluntary Tuberculosis Care Committee which was formed
in 1938 has continued to raise considerable sums of money and used
them for the benefit of local patients. This voluntary fund gives
assistance to patients in ways which supplement the official schemes,
and I feel that a word of congratulation is due to the Hon. Secretary
and the Committee for their continued good work for the benefit of the
Tuberculosis patient.
Public Health (Prevention of Tuberculosis) Regulations, 1925.
No occasion has arisen during the year to exercise the powers
conferred by these Regulations of prohibiting any person engaged in the
mile trade from continuing his employment.
Public Health Act, 1936 (Section 169).
It has not been necessary to apply for an Order under this Section
for the removal of a patient to hospital.
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