HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATION IN NELSON

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXI, 4 May 1937, Page 7

HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATION IN NELSON

[To The Editor] Sir, —I am surprised that while the Government is pressing for the amalgamation of local authorities the residents of the Nelson Province are being called on to pay increased rates fojthe maintenance and upkeep of hospital institutions in the province. The Hospital Board proposes to erect new building at Nelson and Takaka at a cost of several thousand pounds. In addition the taxpayers are called on to meet the costs of the Mental Hospital which adjoins the Public Hospital. No comparative costs per head for the care and upkeep of patients in both or rather each of the institutions is available for comparative purposes but it would appear considerable savings could be arranged for. Many patients in Mental Hospitals do not, I understand, pay fees but are capable of working under suitable supervision.

The Inspector-General reports 100 or more patients have been transferred from Porirua to Kingseat and that the former institution is overcrowded.

He assures the public that no stigma is now attached to the Mental Hospitals. In view of these circumstances it would appear that patients in the Mental Hospital should be capable of 1. Producing suitable vegetables and flowers or even farm produce if 'possible to supply the hospital and the Alexandra Home.

2. Supply gardeners or working parties for the care and upkeep of all grounds.

3. Raising plants etc., for sale to' the City Council and the general public under prearranged orders.

I understand that there is no operating theatre at the Mental Hospital or supply of surgical instruments for post mortems. The Resident Medical Officer in Nel son is responsible for the care of patients at the Alexandra Horne. Two qualified doctors are attached to the Mental Hospital and it could perhaps be arranged for these men to visit the Alexandra Home aiid the Renwick Cottages;' • ’ When the (government is spending and intends to spend several thousand of pounds at Kingseqt it appears that in the interest of economy ' and efficiency so far as the Nelson province-is concerned the public is not being served to the best advantage. I would respectfully suggest that full statistical data be obtained with the object of lessening the costs of maintaining the two institutions even if it calls for the reorganisation of the Mental Hospital on rural lines. —I am etc. W. E. A. GIBBS. Motueka, 4th May.

It was little short of a tragedy to this railway worker to have to give up his job after 30 years. But his rheumatism was so bad that he had no choice. The advice of a friend led to his taking Kruschcn Salts—and lie went on taking it until he was able to go back to work again. This is the story in his own words: — “For three years 1 had arthritis very badly and had to walk with a stick Also I had to give up my job as a railway shunter, after 30 years in the Yard. I was advised by a lady to try Kruschen Salts, and I took bottle after bottle to give it a fair trial. I found it was doing me good, and continued until it cured me. To-day I am in the best of health and am back at work again.”—W.T. Rheumatic conditions are the result of an excess of uric acid in the body. Two of the ingredients of Kruschen Salts have the power of dissolving uric acid crystals. Other ingredients of these salts assist Nature to expel these dissolved crystals from the system. Kruschen Salts is obtainable at all Chemists and Stores at 2/6 per bottle.