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41
The cytology, fathercraft, and health clinic for the elderly were
commenced during 1967.
Fathercraft
A very successful course of five lectures was arranged by a health
visitor in response to requests from fathers in the New Maiden area.
Health Clinic for the Elderly
Since January of this year one health visitor has been working
entirely with the elderly and has visited 420 persons belonging to one group
practice only. This health visitor was also responsible for the health clinic
for the elderly.
Two clinics were commenced in the borough where the elderly healthy
are encouraged to attend for routine health checks. These are staffed by a
senior medical officer, health visitor, district nurse and a group of voluntary
workers. A comprehensive report on an examination is sent to the person's
general practitioner. No treatment is carried out at the clinic, but vitamins
and other food supplements are available at reduced prices. Opportunity is
given for the discussion of problems, and light refreshments are provided.
Cervical Cytology
Facilities are now available at four clinics for mothers to attend
for cervical smear tests and examination of the breasts. Of a total of 347
smears examined during the year, six were of cells suspected of malignancy
and referred for further investigation; one was definitely malignant and
referred for treatment.
Mothers Clubs
Clubs have been commenced in two more clinics and are now held in
five clinics and one church hall. These were organised to assist the lonely
and often depressed mother. Most mothers of first babies have worked until
six weeks before their confinement, giving them little opportunity of getting
to know their neighbours. Mothers are encouraged to organise their own meetings
and supply refreshments. A health visitor is present to answer queries.
A programme of activities is produced yearly which covers a wide range
of topics in the field of health education and includes lectures, films,
demonstrations, discussion groups and keep fit classes. A clinic nurse takes
care of the children in a room apart.