HOSPITAL ECONOMY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 73, Issue 428, 20 November 1930, Page 6

HOSPITAL ECONOMY

LOWER LEW PREDICTED STAFF CURTAILMENT. A prediction that there would be a reduction in the hospital levy on local bodies next year was made at a meeting of the Wanganui Hospital Board yesterday by the chairman (Mr W. E. Broderick). He said that, the nianagin-secretary (Mr L. V. Kerby) and he were investigating every avenue which might lead to a reduction in expenditure. With such economies as were being effected he was certain the levy would come down.

Dr S. Skerman defended the boards of the past against any reproach that the levy had been increased unneces warily . He admitted that it, had risen last year but that had been due to the large expenditure on charitable aid. The cost of the hospital, per capita, over the district, when he had taken office was .23 of a penny and it had not risen above that At one period it had boon down to .19 of a penny. The managing-secretary told the board in no uncertain terms that several departments would have to be looked into. Ho particularly referred to the engine room and plumbing, advising that too much was being expended on these.

The chairman said that there was not sufficient work to keep two carpenters going. It was decided to dispense with the services of one man at the end of the vear.

The chairman and managing secretary are to submit a report to next meeting on further staff economies.