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is one which is not only here to stay, but which will obviously
increase. I am of opinion that steps might be taken to correlate
the activities of all the various bodies engaged in this work, so that
over-lapping could be avoided and the best practical results
achieved in the shortest time.
15. CO-OPERATION
A feature of our work in Area No. 2 has always been cooperation
with other bodies. I am happy to think that we offer and
receive cordial co-operation from those other authorities and bodies
with whom we come into contact. Thus, our relations with the
district councils which constitute the Area, with Hospital Management
Committees and hospitals generally, with general practitioners
and with voluntary bodies, have been close and cordial. I am
completely satisfied that this aspect of our work is important,
and that it must never be neglected.
As an instance of what is being done, it might be noted that
the Area Health Staff is represented on the Executive Committee
of the North Middlesex Division of the British Medical Association,
the Liaison Committee set up by the same Division, the
Northern Group Medical Advisory Committee, various Old
People's Welfare Committees, local Social Service Councils, and the
Executive Committee of the Southgate Physiotherapy Association.
The fact that I am Medical Officer of Health for three of the constituent
districts making up Area No. 2, and that the Deputy Area
Medical Officer is my Deputy in two of these districts, is also of
the greatest value.
The Committee will remember that an attempt was made
during 1953 to interest general practitioners and head teachers in
the work of our clinics, by inviting them to " Open Days " at each
clinic. The venture was successful, and it is hoped that it will be
repeated during 1954.
Opportunity is taken from time to time to communicate with
general practitioners and also with schools, so that matters which
seem to call for attention can be brought to their notice. This
has become a regular feature of our work and is, I believe,
appreciated by the recipients.
16. INVESTIGATION AND RESEARCH
Although it is not always easy for a fully-occupied staff to
carry out research, it is highly desirable that this should be done.
We have therefore tried to follow such lines of investigation as
lie within our power, and will continue to do so.
All children attending for birthday examination at the welfare
centres are given a tuberculin jelly test. These tests are also
applied on children before admission to the Day Nursery. After
consultation with the Chest Physician at the Finchley Chest Clinic,
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