SCHOOL CHILDREN'S HEALTH.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVI, Issue 289, 9 May 1914, Page 15

SCHOOL CHILDREN'S HEALTH.

THE STATE INSPECTION CRITICISED. By Telegraph—Press Association. Pahiatua, Last Night. The State system of medical inspection of school children was discussed at the meeting of householders. The headmaster, Mr. J. Thomas, explained that Dr. Gunn, both last year and this, conlined her attention to the second standard, assisted by the teachers, the examination occupying a considerable time This year she examined 22 children in the second standard, pointing out various defects. In some cases she re-examined children inspected last year, and found that her recommendations made last year had not been carried out. Mr. Thomas referred to the cost of having the medical defects remedied, and quoted one instance where the lowest fee was f:i 3s. .However anxious a parent might be for the welfare of his children it was a financial impossibility in many cases to carry out the recommendations of 'the health officer, lie suggested that a more reasonable plan would be for parents to pas- a nominal fee, the local medical men and dentists being subsidised by.the .Government. At present there was omy a very small percentage of return for the expenditure, lie suggested that the meeting pass a resolution making representations to the Minister for Education, hut no definite action was taken.