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Preventive measures which have largely contributed to this
improved picture include the eradication of bovine tuberculosis,
the scheme for the B.C.G. vaccination of Mantoux Negative case
contacts and secondary school children, the assiduous follow-up
of case contacts by health visiting staff, Mass Miniature
Radiography, and the co-operation of the public.
Despite this bright picture there remains a depressingly large
number of notified cases on the registers at the Chest Clinics and
many patients require assistance for long periods.
The Romford and Hornchurch Tuberculosis Care Association
(Secretary : Mr. E. W. Gowers, Chief Clerk, Health Department,
Romford) provides material needs to needy cases, including extra
nourishment, clothing, fuel, and help in many ways not provided
for by other means.
Domiciliary Occupational Therapy:—Miss Z. E. Mercer,
Occupational Therapist contributes the following:—
Among the facilities provided for those who have tuberculosis,
is the Domiciliary Occupational Therapy. This service has been
in operation for some years in Romford and other areas.
Patients who could benefit from this service are referred by
the Chest Physician, with the co-operation of the Health Visitors.
After an initial visit by the Occupational Therapist who
advises the patient of the various aspects of this service, some
form of handicraft or study is undertaken.
In the past year such handicrafts as Bookbinding Jewellery,
Leatherwork, Weaving, Embroidery, Basketry, Pair ing, Toymaking,
Marquetry, Knitting and Raffia work have been taught
to patients whose work subsequently reached a high standard
In fact some prizes were won at the Dagenham Town Show in
1961. This competition work stimulates interest and encourages
the patient to strive to improve his standard of work. Some of
the completed articles are sold and this enables the patient to
purchase materials for further work. These materials are supplied
at cost price and suitable arrangements are made to enable the
patient to obtain any necessary materials and pay for them. Any
tools and equipment needed are loaned for an indefinite period.
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