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40
Staffing
The low level of recruitment of chiropodists still continues and
causes a waiting time of 6-8 weeks, although every effort is made to
treat urgent cases sooner. Additional posts were authorised on the
opening of the Somerford Grove Health Centre but, as stated, the
recruitment level of chiropodists is a matter of concern.
RECUPERATIVE HOLIDAYS
Details of the holidays arranged for adults and children who have
suffered from a recent acute illness and are in need of a short period
of rest without medical or nursing care are set out below.
1970 1971
Adults 360 33
Children under 5 (not attending school) 28 4
School children 215 310
The figures given for adults and children under 5 years are only
for the period January to March as this part of the service was transferred
to the Social Services Department on 1st April, 1971, under the
provisions of the Local Authority Social Services Act, 1970. Close
liaison is maintained with the Social Services Department incases where
a family consisting of adults, children under 5 years and school children
are required to take a holiday together.
ARTIFICIAL KIDNEY MACHINES
Since early in 1968 when the then Minister of Health gave local
authorities general approval to make adaptations to homes of individuals
needing artificial kidney machines, six machines have been installedin
private homes. During 1971, adaptations were carried out in one home,
and at the end of the year preparations were being made for two more
machines to be installed.
HEALTH EDUCATION
As in previous years the Health Education Panel met at regular
intervals to decide on the Health Education activities of the borough.
The Panel consists of representatives of the various disciplines
employed in the Department with the Deputy Medical Officer of Health as
Chairman. The Council's Public Relations Officer is invited to attend
the meetings.
During the year two of the Principal Medical Officers gave talks
to some 500 students and 30 teachers at the Hackney Technical College.
These talks were given over a period of nine sessions and the subjects
covered were Health and Smoking, Drugs, Family Planning, Personal
Relationships and Venereal Diseases.