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114
In November, 1932, the Ministry of Health intimated that
from information supplied to them from other sources certain
outfits were not sterile when despatched from the manufacturers.
A sample from the Maternity and Child Welfare Department
was submitted to bacteriological examination and found unsatisfactory
in this respect. In consequence the remaining stock was
immediately returned and a fresh batch obtained.
One of these outfits was also submitted for investigation and
the result showed that all the articles were sterile except the two
brown paper sheets contained in the package. This was pointed
out to the makers and they replied to the effect that although
treated it was impossible to ensure that the paper sheets would
not show a growth of bacteria upon examination.
I am informed that there is very little demand for the outfits
but there are still some in stock for issue either free or at cost
price.
It is suggested that the brown paper sheets should either be
omitted or some material such as mackintosh substituted.
Services of Obstetrical Specialists.
Arrangements have been made by various Authorities for
the services of Obstetrical Specialists in association with Maternity
Hospitals or Maternity Departments of General Hospitals
and for the purpose of consultations with General Practitioners.
Such arrangements as to status, cost and availability have to be
sanctioned by the Minister of Health.
I find upon enquiry that the usual fees payable are as
follows :—
£3 3s. for consultations.
£2 2s. if minor operations performed.
£2 2s. for travelling time according to distance and
travelling expenses by car at the rate of 6d. per mile
during the day and 1s. per mile at night.
In some areas a retaining fee is paid.
The demand for such services is apparently infrequent owing
to the fact that difficult and complicated cases are usually admitted
to a Maternity Hospital or suitable General Hospital within reach,