HOKITIKA NOTES

Grey River Argus, 14 August 1948, Page 2

HOKITIKA NOTES

WESTLAND HOSPITAL BOARD [Our own Correspondent] At a meeting of the Westland Hospital Board on Thursday, the Chairman, Mi’ E. W. Heenan, said the estimates had been approved by the Health Department. They provided for building a cottage for the Matron, a home in brick for the caretaker of the Old People’s Home, an eight-bed unit for porters and other male employees, renewal of the heating and steam system, and a new boiler bi' contract. It was decided that priority should be given to completion of the Medical Superintendent’s residence and then a temporary store be commenced. It was decided not to consider purchase of a delivery truck in the meantime. The Chief Inspector of Vehicles advised the Board to procure a new ambulance, as until new parts were fitted the, present one could only be given a restricted license. It was decided that the Health Department be advised and that the secretary inquire as to a new ambulance. The Ford Coy., advised that the ambulance parts would arrive within a month. It was decided that the engineer prepare an estimate for renewal of the’water supply line to the hospital from the town, the pipe being now corroded. The Health Department asked further particulars as to the water supply. The chairman said that engineers had suggested filtering the water, but this was wholly unpractcable. It was decided to stand in with Hokitika Borough Council in securing water from Lake Kanieri. The engineer was instructed to proceed with the installation of a handoperated unit fire alarm. The Matron reported that figures for the month were:—X-Rays, 200; operations, 37; patients admitted 80; patients discharged, 70; died, 1; patients remaining July 31, 50; highest number occupied beds, 61; lowest number of occupied beds, 38; average, 49. Maternity Hospital:—Patients admitted in July, 18; discharged, 19; remaining on July 31, 6.