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in various age groups were examined; statistical details of these
examinations will be found in Table VIII at the end of this report.
The full measure of support which parents have continued
to give to this voluntary scheme has been a gratifying feature,
worthy of special comment at a time when the present system of
periodic medical inspections is the subject of so much discussion.
The fact that approximately 90% of parents accepted this facility
where it was available indicates that parental opinion, at least, is
very much in favour of this service. Their support, in turn, adds
to the value of the examination, particularly when treatment is
recommended.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS.
In addition to the examination of school children, the Medical
Officers examined 30 students and 10 teachers. 30 other employees
of the Committee were also examined for superannuation purposes,
etc.
DENTAL SERVICE.
A year of satisfactory work can be recorded, for even without
the assistance of a part-time dental surgeon at the North Clinic, the
total number of children inspected has risen from 4,704 in 1954, to
7,427 in 1955. In addition, during the same period, the number
treated has risen from 2,140 to 2,632. A glance at Table IV in
the appendix will indicate the volume of work undertaken by the
dental officers, who are both worthy of the highest praise for their
enthusiasm and keenness in this highly important task.
Great concern is still felt, both locally and at national level,
at the lack of sufficient numbers of recruits entering the dental profession,
and until such time as this shortage of dental surgeons can
be overcome, a great burden is placed on the shoulders of those at
present practising dentistry. If the position cannot be remedied,
the time will come when the obtaining of necessary treatment will
become progressively more difficult with dire results to the dental
health of the population.
Mr. King reports on the North Clinic: "During 1955 more
time has been devoted to the inspection of periodic age groups at
school, the result being that over 750 more children were examined
than last year.
The number of children referred by the Assistant Medical
Officers and accident cases and emergency treatments have also
greatly increased.
It has not been possible to replace the part-time Dental Surgeon
who resigned in November, 1954, and the lack of adequate