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27
and patients are instructed to keep the thermometer in the mouth
for at least five minutes. In this way we are able to secure
accurate reading's of the temperature—morning and evening—with
satisfactory results. In these different ways we are able to be of
service to the practitioner, and no doubt this is responsible for his
increased and invaluable co-operation.
Observation beds.
There is one important item which would be of immense assistance
and value in the early diagnosis of the disease in certain
cases, and that is the possession of a few beds for suspicious types
of cases whom one knows will not follow out the advice given,
unless under constant observation. If this could be arrang'ed in
connection with the hospital, it would be of immense value.
Co-operation has been maintained with the general London
Hospitals, and where patients are known to have been in a particular
hospital, that hospital has been communicated with for clinical
notes and X-ray data, so that we can have all the facts in our
possession.
With the School Medical Service there has been close cooperation.
Certain difficulties have presented themselves during
the year with regard to prophylactic measures, especially as to
dental treatment for children over ten years of age whose parents
have to provide dental treatment when advised by the dispensary.
If some help could be given in necessitous cases the advice will be
carried out with certainty.
Treatment of advanced cases.
With regard to advanced cases the only institutional treatment
at our disposal is that provided by Whipps Cross Hospital. Certain
cases whose homes have been visited have, after advice,
consented to go to the hospital, thus removing the danger of infection
to other members of their family. Unfortunately many object
to the stigma of a poor-law hospital, and of those who go into
the Hospital only a few remain for any length of time. It would,
therefore, be of great advantage if some provision could be made
for these advanced cases, other than that provided at Whipps
Cross Hospital, as these cases are such a very grave danger to
contacts.