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children are examined at varying intervals after the mydriatic
is instilled into the eyes, so that it has had a longer time to produce
its effect in some cases, or it may be due to variation in the susceptibility
of different children to the mydriatic used. Whatever the
reason, there is no doubt that a post-mydriatic test definitely
makes for greater accuracy of prescription and is so well worth the
expenditure of time.
"The third attendance of the child is made when the glasses
are ready for supply. A subjective test is applied in order to make
sure that the child's vision with the glasses to be worn corresponds
with that obtained by the oculist in his post-mydriatic test. Should
there be any discrepancy the child is again seen by the oculist.
This final check assures the best possible results from treatment.
"Nature of Visual Defects.—The subjoined table indicated
the nature of the visual defects found in the children who attended
for examination. As will be seen, three were not dealt with at the
Centre but were referred to Hospital for treatment, and one,
though possessing defective vision, could not be examined because
of her excitable condition.
"The figures in the various groups all show an increase on
the corresponding figures for the previous year. This, however, is
not due to any increased prevalence of defective vision. It is
accounted for by the fact that circumstances have permitted the
examination of a larger proportion of those referred to the Oculist.
"The relative frequency of incidence of the various types
of defect remains approximately the same. The greatest proportionate
increase is in the cases of myopia and myopic astigmatism.
In view of the urgency of the need for treatment in these conditions
it is gratifying to note that more patients have been dealt with.
"Myopia.—It is both difficult and unnecessary to add to the
thorough and painstaking investigations and expositions of Dr.
Bingham and Dr. Douglas in the two previous annual reports.
It is necessary, however, to make some reference to recent developments
in the treatment of myopia as practised in the Borough,
since a change of policy has been adopted in accordance with recent
modifications of expert opinion on the point. Comment is difficult