asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether, in view of the prevalence of rheumatism in many parts of the country, he is prepared to arrange with the local authorities for the establishment of itinerant clinics for the treatment of rheumatism.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Rheumatism.
The whole question of how far special provision for the treatment of rheumatism is required is being considered, but in view of the present stage of development of the public health services in regard to dealing with more prevalent diseases and physical defects, it is not practicable to provide itinerant clinics for the purpose mentioned.
In considering this matter will the Parliamentary Secretary bear in mind the enormous number of work days lost through what has become a national disease— rheumatism—and will he expedite the consideration of measures calculated to reduce the incidence of that disease so as to avoid the heavy loss of work days in consequence of it?
I think the Deputy will agree that measures are already in operation that are calculated to reduce the incidence of the disease. Improved housing conditions, improved sanitary conditions, our school medical service scheme, medical inspection, dental treatment, and the treatment of tonsils and adenoids—I feel sure that it will be admitted that all these steps combined are a very serious contribution towards a solution of the problem the Deputy has in mind.