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These two conditions are in themselves quite, sufficient to inhibit some (who might otherwise
be quite willing) from presenting themselves for early examination on the appearance of
(possibly) suspicious symptoms, or as contacts of others. In fact the patient already notified
may feel that the only way to " get a chance " in life is to move away to a new locality leaving
no trace, and hope for the best: and this is undoubtedly what does happen at times. Though
it is very unsatisfactory, both for the community and from the administrative standpoint, one
cannot but feel sympathy for these people: to have the complaint is bad enough without being
as it were penalised by loss of work and break-up of home life.
Whilst criticism can usually be directed against any particular system, it is, however, very
difficult to indicate how a more efficient and comprehensive scheme could be evolved without
further legislation and a re-organisation of the present one, together with greater public education
on the subject.
The disease is a fatal one and the cost of it heavy from whatever aspect it is considered;
and any changes which would give the State a more efficient control should be welcomed.
To all who have worked during the past year in the Tuberculosis Dispensary; Miss
Sargent and her assistant, Miss Grimstone, in the Clerical Department; Miss Robinson,
Bacteriological Assistant, of whom special mention must be made for her care and skill in carrying
cut Mantoux tests and keeping records of same in addition to her other work in the laboratory:
to the Tuberculosis Health Visitors for their success in getting contacts—sometimes an almost
superhuman task; and to Dr. Crowe, who acted as locum tenens tuberculosis officer during
holiday periods, I wish to express my appreciation and thanks.