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20
AFTER-CARE OF THE TUBERCULOUS PATIENT
After-care is given to patients according to their individual needs.
Breadwinner, lodger, student, parent and many others have required
understanding of their special problems as well as encouragement and
practical help.
As in previous years, advice on statutory grants has been sought
by a large number of patients. In November, National Assistance grants
ceased and, in place of this help, the newly formed Ministry of Social
Security have been administering Supplementary Allowances and Supplementary
Pensions which are at a somewhat higher rate than the National
Assistance grants. There is no longer a Tuberculosis Treatment Allowance,
which was previously granted to anyone eligible for National
Assistance who had given up employment to undergo treatment for pulmonary
tubersulosis. The Ministry of Social Security now gives an extra
nourishment grant to any patient receiving treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis
who is eligible for Supplementary Benefits.
Despite all statutory help, many patients have to face financial
difficulties due to their illness. It is, therefore, most helpful to have a
sum of money allocated for free milk for tuberculous patients. This year,
about 34 men and women have received 1 pint of milk daily, free of
charge. Valuable assistance has been obtained from the Croydon Care
Committee, who have made grants for holidays and special needs. At
Christmas time, the Care Committee gave £147 for fuel which was distributed
amongst needy patients, and grocery vouchers to the value of
£90. 0. 0.
The Disablement Resettlement Officer has again given help and
advice to patients regarding employment. Last year, it was found that
tuberculosis patients had little difficulty in obtaining employment. The
exception to this was the frail man who could undertake only very light
work. The pattern has been much the same this year, and these frail
patients have been referred to the Occupational Therapist.
The Home Help Service, Children's Department and Welfare Department
have all co-operated once again with the after-care of the tuberculous
patient.