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108.
Genetic counselling is provided at present on a part-time basis only. The Medical and Health Department plans to expand the service into a full fledged genetic counselling unit with laboratory support. Plans are als
in hand to set up an ante-natal diagnostic unit. In April 1978 a Comprehensive Observation Scheme was launched in maternal and child health centres to provide regular observation for all children from birth to the age of five. Special observation is provided for infants who have a greater than average risk of developing disabling conditions. The main objective is to ensure that all congenital o acquired defects are discovered and remedial action taken As early as possible. Immunization programmes to control infectious diseases will continue. Success has been achieved in controlling tuberculosis, measles and poliomyelitis. Anti-cancer programmes are also being expanded.
109.
Observation of children over the age of five is carried out in certain schools by the Education Department, which organizes screening programmes to detect developmental defects at various stages of primary school education. The White Paper targets were to extend vision screening to all primary 1 pupils in 1978, audiometric screening to all Primary 1 pupils by 1981, speech screening to all Primary 3 pupils by 1985, and group testing programmes to 10 per cent of the lowest rated Primary 1 pupils and 25 per cent of Primary 3 pupils during 1978. The 1978 targets have been met.
Pre-school care
110.
Pre-school care for disabled children is provided in a child care setting and subvented through the Social Welfare Department. From April 1981, it is proposed to provide specialist help in subvented special centres so that a physical or mental handicap does not create further social or educ. tional handicaps. Special centres cater for severely disabled children. By the end of 1979 there were 190 places in special centres. Less severely disabled children are integrated into ordinary centres, where additional specially trained staff are provided. By April 1980, 180 such places will be available.
Special Education Services
There-
111.
The Government's policy is to provide all disabled children with nine years of free general education. after, facilities will be provided, in accordance with the general expansion of senior secondary, technical and tertiary education, for those disabled children who are capable of benefitting therefrom. In order to help disabled children to integrate into the community, they are encouraged to receive eduction in ordinary schools where special peri-patetic services are provided. However, for those children who, because of their disabilities, cannot benefit from education in the ordinary system, special schools, special classes, and resource classes are provided.
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