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71
At this point I would like to take this opportunity and record my
appreciation and grateful thanks to Dr. Grenville Mathers and Dr.
Trenchard for their co-operation, help and advice, which has been given
so willingly at all times.
Mass X-ray
The mass x-ray units offer a free chest x-ray to any person over the
age of 14 years. No appointment or medical note is required. Because
the service is so freely available, it attracts patients, who would otherwise
not "bother" their family doctor. It is amongst this section of the population
that the mass x-ray provides its widest preventative role and, in
addition to tuberculosis, a wide variety of other pathological conditions
are identified. Nevertheless, as with all mass screening techniques, a
great many examinations are carried out before an actual case of disease
is found. This is, of course, costly but is surely the price one has to pay
for preventive medicine.
I reported last year that during 1970, the Department of Health and
Social Security had raised the question of cost effectiveness of mass x-ray
units and that all Regional Hospital Boards had been requested to record
their arrangements. In consequence, the North West Metropolitan
Regional Hospital Board sought the Borough's opinion, who expressed
the view that local mass x-ray service should be retained. It is gratifying
to be able to report that, although the mass x-ray will eventually be
phased out, nevertheless the residents of Harrow have gained a considerable
reprieve. However, in due course, mass x-ray facilities will only be
available at the request of medical practitioners. This ultimate withdrawal
of the mass x-ray service is also unfortunate for another reason,
viz.:- readily available, quickly reported on, free chest x-rays, are of
considerable value to employers and this method of checking the health
of existing and potential employees is obviously extremely valuable.
However, chest clinics will continue to provide a free service to all those
working in close contact with children in order to ensure that such
employees are not suffering from infections which could be transmitted
to children.
Throughout the year, mass x-ray units were available at the following
places and locations
Mobile Unit—The Car Park, Grant Road,
Wealdstone
2nd & 4th
Thursday of
each month.
10 a.m.12
noon
Static Unit —Central Middlesex Hospital,
Park Royal, N.W.10
MondayFriday
9 a.m.5
p.m.
Saturdays
9 a.m.12
noon