ENG-1982 — Page 139

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HEALTH

The Institute of Radiology and Oncology produces diagnostic and therapeutic services in hospitals and clinics. It handles more than 90 per cent of the patients requiring radio- therapy. The institute also operates a cancer chemotherapy service and cancer registry. A Radiation Health Unit was established within the department in March 1982. The professional staff of the unit undertake regular inspection visits to medical, commercial and industrial premises to monitor the working conditions of radiation workers. This is to ensure that the radioactive equipment and irradiating apparatus is well maintained and that the operation procedures for the handling of radioactive substances are safe. In addition, the unit runs a radiation film badge monitoring programme for groups of radiation workers. Radiation licences are issued to the proprietors in accordance with the Radiation Ordinance and Regulations.

The Pharmaceutical Service of the Medical and Health Department meets the require- ments for drugs, dressings, surgical instruments and hospital sundries of all government hospitals, clinics and health centres including government-assisted medical institutions. The service also supervises and enforces laws pertaining to the control of dangerous drugs, poisons and antibiotics as governed by the respective ordinances.

Following the discovery of high lead content in a brand of Chinese herbal medicine, the monitoring of toxic heavy metals in Chinese medicine and cosmetics was intensified during the year to safeguard public health. As a result, a number of Chinese patent medicines and cosmetic creams were banned.

Community Nursing

The Community Nursing Service extends continuing care to patients discharged from hospitals after acute illness, and provides domiciliary medical care and support for the sick, the disabled and the elderly in their own homes.

Jointly operated by eight agencies, including the Medical and Health Department, the service is largely hospital-based, with domiciliary services delivered through a network of 35 sub-centres. To monitor the effectiveness of the service, a central consultative committee has been set up to evaluate progress of the scheme and to ensure uniformity of service. During the year, 11 100 new patients were treated by community nurses and more than 194 000 home visits were made.

Health Education

The Medical and Health Department plans and implements health education programmes independently and in co-operation with other voluntary agencies. It campaigned ener- getically in a number of causes during the year.

A major project was a campaign organised jointly by the Hong Kong Cardiology Society, the Hong Kong Heart Foundation and the Central Health Education Unit of the Medical and Health Department to foster public understanding on heart disease, ways to prevent it, and the importance of early treatment. Other campaigns included eye care, tuberculosis case-finding, mental health, anti-smoking and care for the elderly, with public awareness encouraged through exhibitions, public lectures, seminars, workshops and radio programmes.

Medical Charges

The charge for a consultation at a government clinic has been set at $3 since 1980. This fee includes medicine as well as X-ray examinations and laboratory tests. Specialist consultations are available on referral. Charges at these polyclinics are also $3 a visit