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56
their patients. To achieve this, it has been necessary to hold these
clinics in the afternoons instead of in the mornings. It is now
the practice for our midwives to attend regularly and to help in
the running of the clinic. I am satisfied that this is a most wise
and proper procedure, and that it is having most satisfactory and
beneficial results.
During the course of the year, in accordance with Circular 1705
received from the Minister of Health, the Council determined to
set up a Maternal Mortality Advisory Committee under the chairmanship
of myself as Medical Officer of Health. The Enfield Medico
Ethical Society were asked to nominate two General Practitioners
to serve upon this committee, and furthermore, to suggest the
names of two Obstetric Specialists to serve thereon. In this
the Society co-operated, and on page 52 will be seen the constitution
of this committee.
The committee has met regularly since its appointment.
It has drawn up a list of general practitioners resident in the
area who are prepared to act in a midwifery emergency. It has
also considered and advised concerning many matters which
should help to make motherhood happier and safer.
I am much indebted to the members of the committee for the
help and advice they have so readily tendered during the year.
Before closing these opening remarks, I would call your
attention to the fact that the live birth-rate for Enfield for 1938
was 18.88 per 1,000 population. It is most interesting to note
this increase in the birth-rate in Enfield, at a time when politicians
are very worried as to the decrease in the birth-rate throughout
the country. This figure for Enfield is the highest recorded since
1923, and is recorded for a year when the general death-rate is
lower than it has been since 1923. These two figures speak very
well for the health of Enfield, and augur an increased local
population. This live birth-rate of 18.88 compares with 15.1 for
England and Wales, 13.4 for London, 15.0 for 126 County Boroughs
and Great Towns (including London) and 15.4 for the Smaller
Towns.
I feel sure that you will wish me to express my thanks, and
that of every member of the Council, to the voluntary helpers
who have attended regularly at our centres throughout the year.
Lastly I would express my thanks to the Maternity and Child
Welfare Committee for its courtesy throughout the year, and to
the professional and clerical members of my staff for their loyal
co-operation.
I am,
Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen,
Your Obedient Servant,
DENNIS H. GEFFEN,
Medical Officer of Health.