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It has been possible to close 26 cases at Bexleyheath
during 1952.
Very satisfactory results have been obtained in 16 cases;
either no abnormality now exists in 15 cases or these cases
have improved to such an extent that only a slight residual
defect remains; the improvement in the sixteenth case was
as great as could be expected in view of the nature of the
disability.
Treatment was incomplete in 4 cases; three of these
were in contact with hospitals in relation to their problems,
and, for various reasons, cessation of attendance at the
Speech Therapy was necessary; in the fourth case attendance
ceased without any reason being given and the parents did
not respond to letters sent to them.
One case was closed as little, if any, progress was being
made after a considerable period of attendance at the clinic.
A further case was closed as Speech Training in School
was proving to be beneficial.
One case was found to have improved when the child
was first seen at the clinic.
Training was arranged elsewhere in two cases prior to
appointments at the clinic and one child had left the district
prior to appointments being offered.
Twenty cases remained in contact with this clinic at the
end of 1952 and will continue attendance at the clinic in
1953. The waiting list at the end of 1952 was 94.
Close contact has been maintained with teachers in
schools and with other staff of the Education Committee
and School Health Service.
The link between the County Speech Therapy Service
and the Regional Hospital Board has developed into a
mutual one whereby consultants working in hospitals under
the latter have referred child, adolescent and adult patients
to the Speech Therapy Departments and whereby the Speech
Therapists have been able to consult specialists in the
hospitals in regard to specific cases not previously seen
by hospital consultants. Audiometric tests, neurological
examinations, consultation with ear, nose and throal consultants,
plastic surgeons, paediatricians and orthodontists
have been arranged where necessary. A further valuable
service has been that of confirmation in regard to therapist's
mental assessment findings by Assistant County Medical
Officers and Psychologists. Consultation with members of
Child Guidance Clinic Staffs has also taken place.
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