London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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East Ham 1947

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for East Ham]

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76
technician is required. This would enable complete haemotological
investigations to be performed much more frequently than is possible
at present. A post-mortem room is also required to carry out
pathological examinations.
Tomography.
In some patients, particularly where surgical intervention is
being considered, the normal serial postero anterior films, or
lateral and oblique films, do not give all the required information
re the presence of cavities. At present it is very difficult to get
tomographs carried out and I feel that this service should be available
for our patients so that they can have the maximum amount
of investigation and treatment for their complaint.
Occupational Therapy.
Occupational Therapy is an essential and special form of treatment
and assists and hastens cure and improvement. The
Occupational Therapist works under the direct supervision of
myself and carries out her treatment on a prescription as to the
duration and type of work. Psychologically, it makes the patients
feel normal people, which otherwise many of them would not feel.
It rouses their interest and attention and it helps to keep up their
self esteem which is all important.
The recent decision of the Health Committee to recommend
the appointment of a full-time Occupational Therapist is excellent
and shows appreciation of Occupational Therapy as an essential
part of the rehabilitation of the tuberculous patient. The
Sanatorium is in urgent need of a proper Occupational Therapy
Department. Besides teaching and demonstrating craftwork, the
Occupational Therapist links the patient with the Education Officer
and the Disabled Resettlement Officer of the Ministry of Labour,
and assists the patient in the important aspect of vocational
guidance.

Dental Department.

STATISTICS.

SessionsCases InspectedCases "Fit" (Dentally)Cases CompletedTotal ExtractionsTotal FittingsOther Treatment
2795M.F.453630Dressings 5
Scalings 19
1016Denture Easings 3