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13
Experience gained in the working of the somewhat unusual layout
will be of considerable assistance in meeting future requirements
of other areas.
Because of staffing limitations this clinic is at present
only able to function to approximately three-quarters of its
full capacity; additional sessions will, it is hoped, be possible
in the near future.
A further area affected by recent developments on the Education
side is that of South Croydon. Though less pressing than
those already mentioned, responsibilities for treatment in this
district are likely to become progressively heavier as time proceeds,
particularly in meeting the requirements of older children.
The present clinic, situated in rented premises, is seriously
below standard and cannot be satisfactorily extended. The provision
in the vicinity of more adequate facilities will therefore
have to be considered in the not far distant future.
The Orthodontic Consultant appointed last year reports very
satisfactory progress in dealing with more advanced irregularities
of the teeth, but states that the number awaiting attention
continues to be somewhat large.
At present special priority is being given to those approaching
school leaving age, who would be likely to experience difficulty
in securing this treatment at a later date. A substantial
amount of diagnosis has been carried out for younger children
together with certain vital remedial work. Further aspects of
this treatment are described later in the Report.
Staffing
Though the position remains difficult there appears to be a
greater interest in the treatment of children within the Dental
Profession, as evinced by recent enquiries relating to Local
Authority work.
Unfortunately actual offers of assistance are chiefly of a
Part-time character, sometimes of very limited duration. Whilst
every endeavour is made to meet such requests, the introduction
of multiple personnel, particularly over short periods, does
create serious administrative problems, besides detracting from
the personal character of the treatment.
Whatever future trends may be, the full-time officer will
continue to represent the cornerstone of the service, and for
this reason every possible incentive must be offered to encourage
a higher proportion of graduates from training Hospitals to
specialise in this most vital work.