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7
1. STAFF OF THE SCHOOL MEDICAL DEPARTMENT
There has again been considerable variation in medical staffing
during the year. Dr. Sheppard found it necessary to resign on
medical grounds early in the year after a prolonged absence through
sickness; Dr. Currie resigned in July; and Dr. Irani was granted
maternity leave from September to December. The services of
Dr. Collmann and later Dr. Carter were obtained, both as permanent
appointments, and Dr. Beattie again did temporary duty
during the period of Dr. Irani's absence.
Such frequent changes of medical staff do not make for the
maintenance of a satisfactory service, although the position now
appears fairly stable.
Liaison with Hospital Services.
During the autumn of 1951 the appropriate Committees
agreed that the Health Visitors and School Nurses should in turn
attend the ward rounds of Dr. Hinden, Paediatrician, Whipps
Cross Hospital, who holds a fortnightly session at the Town Hall
Clinic. At the end of a trial period of six months it was apparent
to all concerned that the arrangement was well worth while. Information
as to home conditions became more fully and quickly
available to the Paediatrician and, after the child's discharge from
hospital, the School Nurse ensured that his advice was followed
in the home. For the School Nurse her knowledge is kept up to
date and she learns of new advances in the treatment of children's
diseases.
During 1952 the arrangement was extended to the medical
staff, who in turn accompany the Paediatrician on his ward rounds
and with benefits similar to those outlined above.
The position in regard to Dental staffing has shown a definite
improvement. A dental surgeon previously employed part-time was
appointed full-time and at the end of the year a further full-time
officer was engaged.
In the Orthoptic service the help ol Miss Donovan was obtained
in June for two sessions per week. Mrs. Sylvester and Miss
Donovan together devoted six sessions per week to the clinic until
December, when Mrs. Sylvester began maternity leave. Miss
Donovan has since then carried out three sessions per week,
leaving three sessions unstaffed until early in 1953.
Appointments in the School Health Service still remained
delegated at the end of the year to the Health Area Sub-Committee,
subject to review from time to time by the Committee for Education.