North Lamma Clinic.
The Waiting Room of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Clinic, Tai Po,
The Hong Kong Jockey Club Clinte, Tai Em
The Medico-social Service.
272. The assessment of fees is part of the work of the medico-social service but it is certainly not the chief function of An almoner; her duties include the investigation of the social conditions under which patients live; helping them to overcome the domestic problems which make it difficult for them to benefit from medical treatment; and occasionally providing financial or other assistance where it is needed.
273. In a place like Hong Kong where the average income of the poorer classes is barely sufficient for their basic needs the work of the almonera is even more important than it is in more fortunate countries. For this reason the Almoner service is expanding and will continue to do so,
274. While the work of the service has followed the usual pattern during the year, and has expanded with the increasing numbers of patients treated in the hospitals, it may be mentioned that recent developments have included an increasing attention to work among the blind, and also among lepers.
The Pharmaceutical Service.
275. This service, under the direction of the Chief Phar- macist, is responsible for the purchase of bulk supplies of pharmaceuticals, dressings, and surgical instruments, and for the production of medicinal preparations for use in the various institutions. The Chief Pharmacist also has certain legal res- ponsibilities in connexion with the control of narcotics and dangerous drugs in the Colony.
276. Careful supervision of the importation and movements of dangerous drugs in the Colony continues to be maintained and routine inspections of all premises where poisons and anti- biotics are handled are undertaken. Comparative figures for 1955 and 1956 in respect of licences issued are:
1985.
IOSE.
Wholesale Dealers Licences
333
321
Listed Sellers' Licences
329
243
Licences issued to Authorized Premises
(Pharmacies)
23
24
Anti-biotic Permits
183
171
Restricted Anti-biolic Permite
30
23
Premises inspected
1,159
1,024
61