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12
"It appears that, so far as can be judged from a general
survey, the Council are maintaining a reasonable, and for
the most part, a high standard of efficiency and progress
in the discharge of their functions, relating to public health.
In particular, the Minister is glad to learn that good work
is being done under the Council's Maternity and Child
Welfare Scheme both through their own officers and in
co-operation with voluntary bodies. The provision of a
Foot Clinic and the arrangements for immunisation against
Diphtheria are also noteworthy features of the Council's
health work."
The Education Committee appointed a third dental team.
Dental inspection and treatment were undertaken at
secondary and technical schools for the Essex County
Council.
1936—Duties imposed by the Housing Act 1936 were carried out
and a survey was begun of all dwelling-houses in the
Borough.
The maternity hospital was fully booked and the plans for
extension were passed by the Ministry of Health.
The Education Committee provided a new open-air school,
appointed a physical training organiser and a speech
therapist. Arrangements were made for child guidance
treatment.
1937—The measures required by the Housing and Midwives' Acts
1936 were taken. Eight midwives were appointed.
The Maternity Hospital provided training in gas and air
Analgesia.
Attendances at Welfare Clinics were nearly 50,000.
The Education Committee appointed a fourth dental team.
Tonics were provided at school clinics. The consultant
in charge of the Rheumatism Clinic noted a decline of severe
heart disease cases attending the Clinic. Good progress was
made in Diphtheria Immunisation, as was the case with
milk in schools and school meals. Medical inspection and
treatment were provided in secondary and technical schools
for the Essex County Council.
1938—Diphtheria incidence was only l/3rd that for England and
Wales and the Diphtheria death rate was only l/7th that
for England and Wales.
Welfare attendances increased to 56,000.
The Education Committee provided treatment for squint
at a special clinic. A special enquiry was conducted in
connection with the Rheumatism Clinic.