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The bulk of children examined have been drawn from those
in the first age group and coming under medical supervision for
the first time at the primary routine medical inspection at school.
Children in older age groups were more infrequently referred,
most of the rheumatic subjects in these groups being already
under observation. Where older children were asked to attend for
the first time it was noted that the onset of symptoms belonged
to a later stage in school life. The number referred has also
been much less, the register of children in the schools being now
fairly complete.
A number of active cases necessitating modification of school
curriculum were seen. In some of these active cases the aggravation
of their symptoms was so marked as to require their immediate
admission to hospital. Dr. Preston, at Croydon General Hospital,
was again very helpful in securing the admission of such cases to
beds under his control.
The amenities of the Convalescent Hospital at Coombe Cliff
were exploited to the full by children recovering from acute
attacks of rheumatism, and all made a speedy and happy convalescence,
benefitting greatly by the change of air and rest.
As a consequence of the reduced number of children sent for
primary examination, the number of those seen at re-inspeotion,
although less than in former years, has greatly exceeded the
primary inspections. At the re-inspections it was found possible
to keep in touch with acute cases and cases whose symptoms were
puzzling or gave cause for anxiety. Parents were especially
grateful for this latter supervision, and many evidences of the
appreciation of the work of the Clinic have been received from
parents, teachers and practitioners.