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66
of Health, and adopted by the Maternity and Child Welfare
Committee. In order to conform with its recommendations a
complete revision of the service was undertaken, and it was found
necessary to increase the number of midwives employed, from
8 to 12. At the end of 1943, 11 midwives were employed and a
twelfth was engaged, to commence duty early in 1944.
The midwives have had their premises and equipment examined
at frequent intervals.
Post Certificate Lectures to Midwives.
The Council again had the benefit of courses of lectures arranged
by the L. C. C.
During the year attendance of the municipal midwives, free
or at part cost in necessitous cases was as follows:—
Cases attended free 55
Cases attended for part cost.. 86
Total 141
The demand for sterile packages for confinements increased
from 632 in 1942, to 726 in 1943. This may be said to show that
mothers are increasingly aware of the value of a high standard of
hygiene during childbirth.
The midwives attended the ante-natal clinics whenever possible
and good co-operation existed with the health visitors.
The Middlesex County Council's arrangements for an Obstetric
"Flying Squad" attached to the North Middlesex Hospital is called
out by medical practitioners who desire assistance in the treatment
of obstetric emergencies occurring in the district. The terms are
£2 2s. for each visit. It was agreed that the benefits of this service
should be available in Tottenham Borough, in addition to
the approved panel of consultants available in the home.
The assistance and co-operation of the District Nursing
Association have been most valuable. During March, 1943, when
the Department was suffering from pressure of work, five cases were
transferred to the District Nursing Association, and 47 nursing visits
were paid by them.