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34
In one case it was found that the midwife had failed to call in
medical aid to an infant suffering from discharge from the eyes.
The circumstances of this case were reported to the Committee,
who instructed that the midwife be interviewed by the Medical
Officer of Health and given a serious warning as to her conduct
in the future.
The visit with regard to the case of pemphigus neonatorum
was made following the discovery that a newly born infant attending
the Health Centre was suffering from that disease. The visit
to the midwife who had attended at the birth of this infant led
to the discovery of a second case in her practice. To prevent
further spread of infection, the midwife was suspended from
practice for a short period.
Payment of Fees. The Town Council paid to medical practitioners
called in by midwives, during the year under review,
fees amounting to £116 12s. Od. in respect of 82 claims submitted.
The Council lias power to recover from the patient, or her husband,
the amount of the fee paid or such proportion of it as the financial
circumstances of the family justify. The amount of the fees
reclaimed was £40 0s. lid.
Compensation to Midwife. During the year one midwife was
suspended from practice in order to prevent the spread of infection.
In accordance with Section 2 (1) of the Midwives' and Maternity
Homes Act, 1926, compensation for loss of practice amounting to
£1 5s. Od. was paid to her.
Post-certificate Instruction of Midwives. The arrangements
made with the London County Council in the previous year for
midwives resident in the Borough to attend the courses of lectures
and practical demonstrations organised by that authority were
continued during 1932, the Council being responsible for a proportion
of the cost based on the number of midwives who availed themselves
of the opportunity to attend.