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The figures now presented do not show the total use made of X-rays by the
Tuberculosis Officer, because when cases are sent into St. Nicholas Hospital for
institutional treatment he is able to make use of the X-ray apparatus there for
diagnosis and control.
The Council's arrangements for X-ray examinations are made with the War
Memorial Hospital, and during the year 411 such examinations were carried out.
Co-operation with St. Nicholas Hospital (L.C.C.).—Since July, 1926, the
Tuberculosis Officer has visited St. Nicholas Hospital weekly in accordance with
an arrangement made with the late Board of Guardians. In 1933 the London
County Council, in pursuance of their policy of uniformity throughout London,
terminated the appointment of all Consultants in their service and subsequently
made re-appointments. Included in these appointments were Tuberculosis Officers
as Consultants at the Poor Law Hospitals for their respective areas. In July, the
London County Council decided to continue these appointments subject to review
at a later date.
Co-operation with Local Practitioners.—During the year 72 new cases were seen
by the Tuberculosis Officer at the homes of the patients, and 280 were referred to
the Dispensary by medical practitioners in the Borough.
Co-operation with the School Medical Service.—There is intimate relationship
between the School Medical Service and the Dispensary. Many cases are referred
to the Dispensary by the School Medical Officers, and the child contacts of tuberculous
patients are referred to the School Medical Service for special observation and
supervision. The Divisional School Medical Officer and the Tuberculosis Officer
in personal consultation, discuss these contacts and decide on the supervision desirable.
Other children, whose condition is unsatisfactory, are referred to the School
Clinic for the treatment of minor ailments and dental caries; to the School Care
Organiser, with a recommendation as to the provision of milk and cod-liver oil to
be given at school, or to the Woolwich Invalid Children's Aid Association.
Extra Nourishment.—Extra nourishment in the form of butter, eggs and milk,
is supplied to tuberculous patients on the certificate of the Tuberculosis Officer.
The object of this 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 of the population.
Dental Treatment.—Dental treatment is carried out under the Council's scheme
at the School Clinic, Brewer Street. During the year 21 cases received treatment
the number of attendances being 40. The only charge made to patients is in