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145
measure is to help the ex.sanatorium patient and other
suitable cases by the provision of such extra nourishment as
will make the difference between progress and relapse. It
is not intended for advanced cases of tuberculosis where real
improvement cannot be expected. The expenditure on this
service is limited to £2 per 1,000 population.
Dental Treatment. Dental treatment is carried out under
the Council's scheme at the School Clinic, Brewer Street.
During the year, 26 cases received treatment, the number of
attendances being 41. The only charge made to patients is
in connection with the supply of dentures and then patients
are assessed according to their means. Dentures were supplied
in seven cases at a cost of £30 1s. 6d., and payments by
patients amounted to £13 9s. Od. In assessing patients due
regard is given to dental benefits they may be entitled to
from approved societies.
Shelters. Thirteen shelters are maintained by the Council
for the use of patients returning from sanatoria who are
able and willing to continue this form of treatment. Many
patients are unwilling to make use of the shelters, possibly
because they dislike being overlooked by neighbours. The
shelters are lent by the Council in many cases free of charge,
but in some instances a small rent, not exceeding sixpence
per week, is charged.
Bacteriological Examinations. During the year 960 specimens
of sputum were examined at the Dispensary. Of these,
193 were positive and 767 negative. Facilities for general
practitioners are provided at the Seamen's Hospital, Greenwich,
and 348 specimens were examined there during the
year, 83 being positive and 265 negative.