14
PROGRESS
was hit by a travelling influenza epidemic which unfortunately led to 27 deaths before wending its way round the world by jet plane. It was in connection with another infectious disease, that of measles, that the Medical and Health Department organized a mass inocula- tion campaign in readiness for an expected cyclical increase in 1969 in the incidence of measles.
While Hong Kong could continue to be proud of a readily available, virtually free medical service for all who require it, there was an acute problem in 1968 because of an overall shortage of doctors. At the beginning of the year vacancies for government posts were above the 100 mark. Special efforts were made to recruit more doctors from Singapore and Malaysia and the University of Hong Kong Medical School produced nearly 80 newly-qualified doctors. By September the problem had eased only slightly. Despite great strains on existing staff, however, there had been no curtail- ment of services.
Perhaps the most spectacular achievement in 1968 in the provision of specialist services was Hong Kong's first open-heart operation in July at the Grantham Hospital. This was soon followed by several other successful operations.
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There were some major developments in the field of social welfare. The long awaited report by a working group of officials on Social Security was published, and members of the public were urged to discuss and make comment on the report's factual findings of what social security involved and on its suggestions. This important long-term document sets out many of the basic facts, and by indicat- ing some possible steps has also highlighted some of Hong Kong's very real difficulties in this field. In November private legislation was passed establishing the Hong Kong Community Chest, which will enable residents to make contributions to those 43 welfare organizations which are members through one annual donation. It is hoped by its sponsors that by the institution of this community chest much of the formerly high administration costs of charitable collections will be eliminated.
There were several achievements in the field of rehabilitation. In September the Governor opened the World Rehabilitation Fund Day Centre which will provide vocational training and employment for 340 disabled persons. During the same month the 4th Pan