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doctor should see some patients more than once yearly. The
load on the health visitor will obviously grow, and she may require
some relief, say from a clinic nurse, and perhaps may need
to group some of the patients, e.g., the obese patients might
form a "weight-watchers group". It would be helpful also to
increase contact with the mental health service.
We have been outstandingly fortunate in having the services
of Mrs. R. G. Davies, S.R.N., who has acted as secretary/
receptionist and has typed all the correspondence in a voluntary
capacity. She has been invaluable and we wish her well for her
stay in America.
This is rewarding work for anyone who is interested in
preventive medicine. One has to be constandy on the alert to
improve the efficacy of the pre-symptomatic diagnostic methods.
A detailed summary of findings is available. It shows that
the overwhelming incidence of disease in this older age group
falls into one of three categories—joint disorders, obesity and
mild depression. A few unsuspected cases of mild hypertension
were discovered, and one possible diabetic. A much larger number
of people would have to be examined to make a reduction in
disease in the community at a pre-symptomatic stage. The
medical examination, however, is a personal one, and is a basis
for the supportive and educative functions of the clinic which
have been outlined.'
Chiropody Service
The Council's chiropody service caters for the elderly, the registered
blind or partially sighted, the physically handicapped and
expectant and nursing mothers. It comprises two separate schemes: —
(a) The Direct Scheme whereby application is made to the
Medical Officer of Health and authority is given, to those eligible,
to have a fixed number of treatments carried out by any chiropodist
on the Council's panel.
(b) The Indirect Scheme whereby treatment is arranged by
Voluntary Organisations. A number of old people are taken for treatment
by members of these voluntary organisations whose work is
greatly appreciated.
Under either scheme, treatment can be given in the patient's
home if a doctor certifies that the patient is unable to travel.
The number of people receiving treatment under the service is
increasing steadily and is likely to continue to do so. In the twelve
months ended 31st December, 1967, 995 new applications for treatment
were received.
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