CARE OF THE SICK.

Waikato Times, Volume 104, Issue 17589, 19 December 1928, Page 6

CARE OF THE SICK.

WORK OF THE YEAR. WAIKATO HOSPITAL PROGRESSPATIENTS AVERAGE 260 DAILY. Now the fourth largest public hospital in the Dominion, the Waikato Hospital continues to progress and tne year just closed has seen substantial additions and improvements. Amongst the most important was the erection of the two two-stlried additions—the Douglas and RothweU Wards, which provided much-needed relief in the way of accommodation. The Board also took the opportunity of having some of the older wards renovated and modernised. Wards one, two and three have also been considerably improved by the glazing-in of the verandahs. Additions to the Sunshine Ward, providing further accommodation and a playroom for the children, are now'in progress and will be completed early in the new year. A steam heating service is being installed, which when completed, will obviate the need for open fires, throughout the institution, and will give a more uniform heat. The massage department has also received considerable attention and much valuable equipment has been installed. The policy adopted if employing a permanent carpenter, painter and plumber has been justified by the improved condition and appearance of the buildings and by the reduced repairs bill. During the year there was a steady increase in the daily average number of patients, which has been in the vicinity of 260. It is expected that by the end of the year, over 3,500 persons will have undergone treatment at the hospital. The operation performed during the 12 months approximate 2000.

Important changes in the staff will be made at the end of the year when Dr. G. W, Gower, who, for the past nine years has been superintendent, retires to enter private practice. His successor is Dr. Hockin.