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101
the dental treatment of school children, and I was accordingly
instructed to refer parents to the relieving officers. This was done in
a very large number of instances, and almost without exception the
parents refused to go to the relieving officers. In at least four
instances, however, application was made to the relieving officers,
but in each instance relief was refused.
I confess that I am not surprised at the result, as, although it
is clear that the Board of Guardians are legally responsible for the
provision of any necessary medical or surgical attendance which
the parents cannot obtain for themselves, they have no staff for
dealing with dental out-patients, and if the responsibility is to be
assumed by a local authority, it is obviously much more convenient
that the work should be done by the Education Committee or by
the Corporation, and not through the Poor Law. Should the
Committee think it worth while, it might be well to consult local
dentists as to the practicability of making arrangements on provident
dispensary lines. I do not myself, however, regard that solution as
a very hopeful one.
EXAMINATION OF PUPIL TEACHER CANDIDATES.
Thirty-nine young persons who desired to become pupil
teachers were medically examined during the year, all of whom
were passed.
SPECIAL EXAMINATION OF TEACHERS.
Fourteen teachers were interviewed on one or more occasions
by the medical officer. In seven instances the interview had reference
to the existence of infectious disease at the home of the teacher,
while in seven cases the Committee required special reports concerning
the health of the teacher.
TRUANTS.
Three children were examined before despatch to truant schools,
and the necessary certificates given to the police.
EXAMINATION OF CHILDREN UNFIT TO ATTEND SCHOOL.
A large number of children referred by the Attendance Committee,
attendance officers or teachers, in addition to others specially
selected by the medical officers, attended at the Town Hall for
medical examination.