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Although the effects of health education are not readily discernible,
I am convinced that we must always consider this to be
an integral part of our work. Without health education, little
progress of lasting value can be anticipated. It is for this reason
that we have concentrated on health education, and that no avenue
will be left unexplored.
In this connection, it might be mentioned that we have
collaborated with Messrs. Marmite Ltd., in the making of a sound
film, during which Cranborne Clinic was used. I would very much
like to have the pleasure of arranging a sound film in which the
general health activities in Area No. 2 were depicted. The Committee
will remember that this has already been discussed and
strongly supported by the Committee. As several years have now
elapsed since the project was first mentioned, may I put forward
the suggestion that it might, with profit, be revived.
13. Dental Care of Expectant and Nursing Mothers and
Children under School Age
At the end of 1953 there were four whole-time and five
part-time dental officers employed in the Area, representing a total
of 6½ whole-time staff. During the year, 232 sessions were allocated
to this service. A total of 177 expectant and nursing mothers and
584 children under the age of five were treated.
I need not remind the Committee that great difficulty has
been experienced in the past in obtaining the services of sufficient
Dental Officers to deal with the priority and school dental services
in the Area. The situation did improve during 1953, when our
available establishment was higher than has been the case for many
years. This allowed us to deal with arrears of work urgently required.
The position is so variable that I would not hazard a guess
as to how long this happy state of affairs is likely to continue.
Each Dental Officer is provided with the services of a Dental
Attendant, who combines chair-side assistance, the keeping of
necessary records and the making of appointments. The Dental
Service is under the direction of an Area Dental Officer, Mr. G. S.
Williams. Mr. Williams has a difficult task to perform, as he also
acts as Dental Surgeon at a very busy Clinic. He has carried out
his many duties with devotion, and I am glad to have this
opportunity of expressing my thanks to him.
14. Care of Old People
The problem of old people, especially the aged and chronic
infirm, is one which constantly occupies our attention. This is a
problem with numerous facets, in which many bodies and
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