London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Walthamstow 1951
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Walthamstow]
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The following gives details of the work done during the year by the Dental Officers :—
| Expectant and nursing mothers | Children under 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| — | ||
| — | ||
(d) Tonsils and Adenoids.—Children are treated at various
hospitals.
(e) Ophthalmic Defects and Minor Ailments.—Children are
given treatment either at the School Clinics or by special
appointment.
(f) Child Guidance.—Towards the end of the year and at
Dr. Gillespie's suggestion, suitable cases under 5 years were seen
informally at the West Avenue Welfare Centre. The informality
was reassuring to the parents and patients. They were comparatively
simple cases which were dealt with in two or three interviews.
This innovation was thoroughly justified by the results attained.
Brief details are as follows :—
Child, aged 4 years, referred for tantrums and disobedience.
Found to be of normal intelligence and an only
child. Mother suffers from cardiac trouble. Restricted and
anxious home atmosphere. Treatment was by play therapy
and guidance interviews and there were early signs of improvement.
Another child was a case of classical sibling jealousy.
Play therapy was commenced and the outlook considered to
be good.