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
Merton 1968
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Merton]
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(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, 1968, 978 new applications for treatment
were received.
The following table gives figures for the Direct Scheme:—
| Category | Persons treated in 1968 | Number of treatments given | Number on books at 31.12.68 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elderly | 3,757 | 20,776 | 3,503 |
| Registered Blind or Partially Sighted | 65 | 353 | 59 |
| Physically Handicapped | 106 | 600 | 102 |
| Expectant Mothers | 2 | 2 | — |
| Totals | 3,930 | 21,731 | 3,664 |
Ripple Bed Service
Ripple beds (air beds having a mechanically induced rhythmic
undulation designed to prevent bed sores), are available on loan to
patients of the Home Nursing Service at the request of a doctor or
Home Nurse. The beds are hired from the suppliers and 76 such loans
were made in the year.
Sick Room Equipment
There are three Medical Loan Depots, one each in Merton,
Mitcham and Wimbledon. Loans of medical equipment are made to
residents in the Borough on request from the family doctor or from
a Home Nurse. Owing to the heavy demand loans are reviewed every
three months.
The depots are staffed on a voluntary basis by members of the
British Red Cross Society to whom thanks are due for the maintenance
of a most essential service.
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