Document 4QJE0OJ2e24gaDnO9GRZ1n40x
FILE NAME: Baldwin (BALD)
DATE: 1938
DOC#: BALD078
DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION: Pittsburgh Medical Bulletin - Occupational Disease Compensation
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
69
JlittHhurgl} ileiitral liilletiu
Published by the Allegheny County Medical Society Jenkins Arcade, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Issued every Saturday except during July and August
WALTER F. DONALDSON....................................... Editor
Entered as second-class m atter March 14, 1912, at the Postoffice at Pittsburgh, Pa., under Act of March 3, 1879
Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103, Act of October 3, 1917, authorized July 16, 1918
. Address all communications to the Editor, Jenkins Arcade Building. Prompt notification of change of address should be made in writing. All Programs, etc., must be submitted in writing to tlm office of the Society by Tuesday noon of each week. No com munication unsigned will be published. The Editor will gladly withhold the name of anyone who wishes, and disclaims ai responsibility for any communication appearing in these columns.
Vol. 27, No. 4 Pittsburgh, Pa., Jan. 22, 1938 25c a Year
THE STATE -- ETHICS AND TREASON
The function of the state is the organization of the life of the people.
My right it is my neighbor's duty to observe. His right it is my duty to respect. It is the business of the state to define, declare, and enforce these rights and duties. To law and govern ment we owe all that makes life endurable or even possible: the security of property; the sanctity of home; the opportunity of education; the stability of institutions; the blessings of peace; protection against violence and bloodshed.
Love of country, or patriotism, like all love places the object loved first and self second.
In all public action the patriot asks not, "What is best for nie? but, "What is best for my country?" In time of election he goes to the caucus and the polls, and expresses his opinion and casts his vote for what he believes to be just measures and honest men. When taxes are to be levied, he gives the assessor a lull account of his property, and pays his fair share of the ex pense of government. The patriot will not stand apart from all Parties, because none is good enough for him. He will choose the best, knowing that no political party is perfect. The moment he is convinced that the party with which he has been acting has
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PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
become more corrupt, and less faithful to the interests of the
country than the opposite party, he will change his vote. Self first, personal friends second, party third, and country
fourth, is the order of considerations in the mind of the office-
seeker, the wire-puller, the corrupt politician.
_
I
Country first, party second, personal friends third, and sell
last is the order in the mind of the true citizen, the courageous
statesman, the unselfish patriot. In return for serving our country we receive a country to
serve. Through the institutions which the state maintains,
schools, almshouses, courts, prisons, roads, bridges, harbors, laws,
armies, police, there is secured to the individual the right and
opportunity to acquire property, engage in business, travel wher
ever he pleases, share in the products of the whole earth, read
the books of all nations, reap the fruits of scholarly investigation
in all countries, take an interest in the welfare and progress^ of
mankind. This power of the individual to live a universal life,
this participation of each in a common and world-wide good, is the product of civilization. And civilization is impossible without
that subordination of each to the just claims of all, yffiich law
requires and which it is the business of the state to enforce, p r Organization involves a multitude of offices and public ser
vants. Many of these offices are less onerous and more lucrative
than the average man can find elsewhere.
.
The "spoils system," which consists in rewarding service to
party by opportunity to plunder the country; which pays public
servants first for their service to party, and secondly for service
to the country; which makes usefulness to party rather than
servictableness to the country the basis of appointment and pro
motion, is the worst evil of our political life. > .
.
Betrayal of one's country and disregard of its interests is
treason. Whoever sacrifices the known interests of his country
to the interests of himself, or of his friends, or of his party, is
therein guilty of the essential crime of treason. Whoever votes for an appropriation in order to secure for another man lucrative employment or a profitable contract; whoever increases 01 dimin
ishes a tax with a view to the business interests, not of the coun try as a whole, but of a few interested parties; whoever accepts or bestows a public office on any grounds other than the efficiency of service which the office-holder is to render to the country,
whoever evades his just taxes; is guilty of treason.
--Hyde's Practical Ethics, 1892.
No further reservations can be accepted for the Course on Public Speaking, for the reason that the quota is filled.
OCC"
A recen vania was ta istration pro establishmen number of er hazards was be covered b sation Act oi
Occupati ployees was i 20 other stat in varying d.
Pennsyh trial disease
Poisoning Load,
carbon bis: bons; bonz X-ray; ch: sodium (co
Infection f; Tar, p
pounds, lu'i
Injury fro: Asbest
caisson dis
This law which was a beginning Ja ance. It will Bureau and I
Silicosis, pensable for may not exce apply to the (
The cost greatest indu sation for oti large number the principle operation.
Members tions of this i ment of Lain "Occupationa
?,, 1
interests of the his vote. iird, and country ind of the office-
1s third, and self i, the courageous
ive a country to state maintains, es, harbors, laws, ml the right and less, travel whervhole earth, read irly investigation and progress of a universal life, udd-wide good, is npossible without of all, which law e to enforce, s and public sernd more lucrative
arding service to vhich pays public :ondly for service arty rather than lintment and pro-
>f its interests is ts of his country r of his party, is . Whoever votes her man lucrative icreases or dimin ;. not of the coun; whoever accepts han the efficiency to the country, ason.
cal Ethics, 1892.
or the Course on is filled.
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
71
OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE COMPENSATION
A recent survey of industrial disease hazards in Pennsyl vania was tabulated and analyzed by a Works Progress Admin istration project involving a field survey of 16,000 industrial establishments representing coverage of about 75%. The total number of employees found to be exposed to industrial disease hazards was 672,010, of whom it is estimated that 445,671 will be covered by the Pennsylvania Occupational Disease Compen sation Act of 1937.
Occupational disease compensation for Pennsylvania em ployees was inaugurated January 1, 1938, Pennsylvania joining 20 other states, including all neighboring states, which provide, in varying degrees, protection for this kind of injury.
Pennsylvania's law specifically names the causes of indus trial disease which may be compensated. The list includes
Poisoning from: Lead, mercury, arsenic, manganese; phosphorus; methanol,
carbon bisulphide, hydrocarbon distillates, halogenated hydrocar bons; benzol and its nitro, amido or amino derivatives; radium, X-ray; chromic acid, bichromate of ammonium, pot-'ssium or sodium (compounds are included).
Infection from: Tar, pitch, bitumen, mineral oil, paraffin, oils, cutting com
pounds, lubricants, dust, liquids, fumes, gases, vapor, anthrax.
Injury from: Asbestosis, silicosis or anthraco-silicosis (miner's asthm a);
caisson disease (compressed air illness).
This law is an addition to the Workmen's Compensation Law which was amended in 1937 to provide increased cash benefits beginning January 1, 1938, and more adequate medical allow ance. It will be administered by the Workmen's Compensation Bureau and Board.
Silicosis, anthraco-silicosis and asbestosis will not be com pensable for temporary or partial disability; employers' liability may not exceed $3,600 in any one case. These limitations do not apply to the other industrial diseases named.
The cost will bear more heavily on the industries having the greatest industrial disease hazards in the same way that compen sation for other injuries bears more heavily on industries with large numbers of accidents. It is predicated on the extension of the principle that injury to employees is a cost of business operation.
Members who are interested in the socio-economic reflec tions of this medical problem are advised to write to the Depart ment of Labor and Industry at Harrisburg requesting a copy of "Occupational Disease Compensation Law."
72
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
PENNSYLVANIA AND PNEUMONIA
Bulletin No. 2
Issued by the Commission for the Study of Pneumonia Control of The Medical Society of the State of Pennsylvania
Bulletin No. 1 aimed to emphasize the general importance
of the modern diagnosis and treatment of the pneumonias, and
the opportunity offered to the Medical Society of the State of
Pennsylvania whereby it may aid materially in decreasing the
continued annual loss of over 9,000 lives in this state.
In furthering this end, our Commission now wishes to pre sent in brief form those facts which, in its opinion, seem to be
V
of greatest importance and usefulness in the most effective treat
ment of the pneumonias. In the statements that follow dog
matism has been avoided as much as possible. Comments and
suggestions are respectfully invited.
Bacteriology and Pathology
From many quarters the accumulating evidence indicates
that the disease "pneumonia'" is actually a composite of many
specific bacterial diseases, each of which may be caused by one or more specific organisms which are capable of producing an
acute pathological process in the lung. It is true that there 1S some advantage in practice in the ability to differentiate between
lobar and bronchopneumonia. One should not forget, however,
that even in an ideally equipped hospital one may be unable to
distinguish adequately between lobar and lobular oi bioncho-
pneumonia. Also it should not be forgotten that in some cases
at necropsy lobar pneumonia may be observed in one part ot
the lung and bronchopneumonia in another. The most important organisms that may cause the pneu
monias are (a) the pneumococci, of which 32 specific serologic
types are now identified, (b) streptococci, (c) influenza bacilli,
(d) staphylococci, and (e) the Friedlander bacillus.
In the patients who appear to be suffering from lobar pneu
monia, some type of pneumococcus is found to be the causative
organism in about 96% of the cases.
.
,,
In the bronchopneumonias, the relative incidence of P^u"
mococcus infection is somewhat lower, and that of the othei
above mentioned organisms somewhat higher. To encourage and facilitate this bacteriological appioach to *
the diagnosis and treatment of the pneumonias, the various hos
pitals and clinics of this state have cooperated with the State Department of Health in furnishing facilities for the proper study of the pneumonias. In those areas of Pennsylvania where
N___
NIA
mtrol of y1vania
neral importance pneumonias, and of the State of n decreasing the is state. i\v wishes to pre inion, seem to be fst effective treatthat follow dog-
Comments and
vidence indicates mposite of many >e caused by one of producing an rue that there is jrentiate between forget, however, nay be unable to ular or bronchoat in some cases 1 in one part of
cause the pneuspecific serologic influenza bacilli, Hus. from lobar pneube the causative
cidence of pneulat of the other
iical approach to the various hos1 with the State for the proper msylvania where
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
73
technical facilities are not now available for the performance of the Neufeld method of pneumococcus typing, technicians from such areas are being trained as rapidiy as possible.
Satisfactory bacteriological studies can not be made unless the sputum is carefully collected in a sterile container. If a Petri dish is not available, a small glass jar that has been ster ilized by boiling will suffice.
Bulletin No. 3 will continue the discussion of the subject of Bacteriology and Pathology.
E. L. Bortz, M. D., Chairman L. H. Collins, M. D.
T. Grier Miller, M. D. H. K. Mohler, M. D. H. A. Reimann, M. D.
C. C. Hartman, M. D. G. J. Kastlin, M. D. E. W. Bixby, M. D.
M. II. Sherman, M. D. C. W. Skinner, M. D.
January 18, 1938.
Commission for the Study of Pneumonia Control
PITTSBURGH ACADEMY OF MEDICINE
The Pittsburgh Academy of Medicine will meet Tuesday, January 25, 1938, at 8:30 P. M., in tlw Academy rooms, 322 North Craig Street, P itts burgh. The program is ,\s follows: Fractures of the Cervical Spine....................................... Dr. James 0. Wallace
Discussion by Dr. John A. Heberling
Exudative Esophagitis--Medical and Surgical Treatm ent....................... .............................................................................. Dr. William A. Bradshaw Discussion (by request) by Dr. Joseph A. Perrone Discussion by Dr. John P. Griffith
Members of the Allegheny County Medical Societv are cordially invited to attend.
AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
The Pittsburgh Section of the American Chemical Society has invited Dr. Donald D. Van Slyke to appear as guest speaker at its meeting on January 27, at 8 P. M,, in the Mellon Institute Auditorium. The program will be as follows:
The Physiology of the Amino Acids....!.................... Dr. Donald D. Van Slyke Divisions
A. Blood and Gas Analysis in the Detection of Industrial Hazards.... ........................................................................................ William P. Yant
B. Discussion of Dr. Van Slyke's paper.... Leonard H. Cretcher (presiding) C. The problem of protein structure................................... Lawrence W. Bass
Members of the Allegheny County Medical Societv are cordially invited to attend.
------------ --------------------Dr. Ellis M. Frost addressed the Crawford County Medical Society a t its January 19 meeting held in Meadville, on the subject of "Pneumonia."
An objective of the medical profession is the early recognition of pneumonia.
____________ PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN______________
RENZIEHAUSEN MEMORIAL FUND (FOR DIABETICS)
The following statement of the Policies of the Renziehausen
Memorial Ward of the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh was approved by the Public Relations Committee and by the Board
of Directors of the Allegheny County Medical Society:
1. Patients will be accepted only on written reference from cian or the hospital or charitable organization responsible for their care. In case of emergency, telephone arrangem ents may be fol
lowed by the w ritten reference.
2 Patients accepted will be under the care of the Hospital Diabetic ' Staff and will be returned to the source f reference upon discharge from the ward. If continued care in the Out-Patient Clinic is
desired it may be arranged by written request from thes re^ r : i n g
source. No patient of the Renziehausen Memorial Ward will be accepted as a private patient by any member of the staff without
w ritten request of the referring physician.
3. Patients financially able may pay the regular
rate r p art of
it as a contribution to the Renziehausen Memorial Ward I und.
a Mo nrofessional fees will be charged for services on the ward. Any 4' pedon abfe to do so may pay more than the ward rate as a contn-
bution to the Renziehausen Memorial Ward bund. GEORGE R. HARRIS, M. D., Secretary.
DISTINGUISHED INSTITUTIONS
fieldI0m eai1u s t Owomlering whether the publie will be confused In future thinking by h e a r S i from four or five voices. It has happened in labor.
Of medicine, they will be S t K f p K V n o t a b l e disservice, whatever may be thenr motives.
--Clergyman commenting in Wisconsin Medical Journal, Jan., 1938.
1937 IN RETROSPECT
What has the organized medical profession accomplished in 1937? Have we made progress toward better service to the
publkf? Have we satisfied our critics that we are giving a com-
plcte^rrm^ve
moment defeated in our state and national
legislatures most of the threatening regimentation legislation
that has been presented. Many bad laws proposed to give various healing cults special privileges, such as their own examining
N
l DIABETICS)
the Renziehausen Pittsburgh was nd by the Board
Society:
ice from their physiresponsible for their ements may be foi-
ie Hospital Diabetic ence upon discharge lut-Patient Clinic is i from the referring lorial Ward will be of the staff without
vard rate or p art of irial Ward Fund, os on the ward. An?, ird rate as a contri;nd. I. D., Secretary.
ical societies and the 1 institutions in the I- keen observants in
of medicine in the aajor concern in the
confused in future ; hapoened in labor.
edicine, they will be j their motives, urnal, Jan., 1938.
n accomplished in er service to the are giving a corn-
state and national station legislation sed to give v a rie s r own examining
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
75
boards, etc., have been defeated both in committee and on the
floor of the various state legislatures. These accomplishments have not been gained without a fight and ever constant vigilance.
The one thing, however, that stands out as the profession's
greatest accomplishment has been the unity of spirit of the indi
viduals in medicine. As more and more medical practitioners
have learned about the legislative efforts by wholly selfish inter
ests, they have awakened to their individual responsibilities.
The profession has progressed in not only this aspect of the situ ation, but has realized as never before that each individual medical man must improve his medical abilities. This has been
evidenced by the unusually large attendance at all of the scien tific medical meetings that have been held during the past year.
Have we made progressive strides toward better public ser
vice? The answer is--yes.
_
The medical profession has been more earnest in its studies
from a scientific point of view, and the individual patient ha3 eventually benefited by the professional knowledge and exper
ience related and absorbed at these splendid scientific sessions.
These are the gains. We readily give to the control of the authorities those dis
eases which require partial or complete police control because of
their immediate deleterious effect upon others. The Surgeon
General's fight against syphilis started this past year exempli
fies how splendidly the profession cooperates with the authorities
where the health of the public may be imperiled.
Have we satisfied our critics that we are giving a complete medical care? No! And we never will because there will always
be those who, for one reason or another, will never sense the com pleteness of the service being rendered by the physician.
Conditions vary all over the country, but it is certainly a
fact that no one who needs adequate medical care need go without
it, regardless of his social or economic standing. Have we put our desire for money ahead of our desire to
serve? This question can be answered in the negative. There
are physicians who think solely in terms of money, yet it must
be admitted that these men form a very small percentage, and
even,, they must produce results or else their services cease to be
in demand by the public. Yes, the doctor does place service before financial reward,
even though here and there along the line there is a shyster. He is loosely organized for his personal benefits but strongly organ
ized for the protection of the public. He is a humanitarian first, last, and all the time. Don't allow anything to destroy the indi
viduality of the practicing physician.
--Elmer Hess, M. D., President, Erie Co. (Pa.) Medical Society.
76
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
THE NATIONAL HEALTH SURVEY FOR 1935-1936
GEORGE R. HARRIS, M. D.
This survey was made for the period November, 1935-March, 1936, the figures being given by each family for one year prior to the date the information was furnished. The survey was con ducted by the United States Public Health Service with the aid of grants from WPA. It was a house-to-house canvass of 740,000 families in 19 states and 36,000 families in selected rural areas in three states. In detail the reports are based on schedules taken in 84 cities for 740,000 families, including 2,660,000 per sons, or about 3.7 % of the urban population of the 1930 census. As to the rural surveys, 36,000 families, or 140,000 persons were canvassed in 23 rural counties in a Southern state, 16 in Georgia, four in Michigan, three in Missouri. The 84 cities were distrib uted over 19 states: 31 places of over 100,000 population were sampled, and 53 smaller cities were completely canvassed. Fur ther details of the technical procedures are given in the report, and all in all they seem to be fair methods. Diagnoses were veri fied through hospitals and physicians, when permission was granted. 535,000 inquiries were mailed, 400,000 returned, and professional reports were obtained on 350,000 cases of illness that had had medical attention. Of the 2,660,000 persons enumerated, there were 1,100,000 cases of illness reported. Illnesses reported were those lasting 7 days or over. Illnesses of less than three months' duration were classified as "acute" ; three months or over were classified as "chronic." So much for the methods of classi fication.
Illness and Medical Care in Relation to Economic Status
Families were grouped according to economic status as fol lows: 81,000 annually and under, 40%; under 81,500 included 65 % of the canvassed population; 80% in families with incomes under $2,000 per annum. Almost one-half of the lowest income group had been recipients of relief in 1935. The frequency of illness is of course known to be highest among the poor. This survey confirms it. Illnesses disabling for one week or longer in a 12-month period occurred among families on relief at a rate 57% higher than among families of $3,000 or over. Two persons on relief were disabled for one week or longer by chronic illness for every person in the middle and highest income groups. Fam ilies just above the relief level (under $1,000) have a sickness rate lower than the relief group, but 17% higher than the high-
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
77
est income class. Most of this excess is due to chronic illness, being 42% higher than those over $3,000.
Illness causes dependency; one in 250 family heads in the comfortable income group was not seeking work because of chronic disability. In those with incomes under $1,000, the ratio was 1 in 33; in relief families, 1 in 20, unable to seek work be cause of disability.
Illnesses among the relief and low-income groups are not only more frequent, but they last longer; 63% longer, in fact. The annual per capita volume of disability in the relief group is three times as great as among the upper income families--11.9 days compared with 3.9 days per person. The volume of disa bility is higher in the group just above the relief level.
Income and Medical Care
Among relief and low-income families the proportion of ill nesses (a week or longer) receiving no care from a physician was larger than in the higher-income groups. In families with incomes ir excess of $3,000 the proportion of cases not receiving care was 17%; among relief families, 30%; among non-relief families with incomes of less than $1,000 the proportion was 28%.
In a surveyed population of 280,073 persons in 8 large cities, the average case of disabling illness in families with incomes of $3,000 and over received 5.7 calls from a physician, compared to 3.9 calls per case on relief, or 46% more service per illness in the upper income families.
The Pittsburgh survey included 20,391 families, of which 18,766 were white and 1,625 colored. Of these, 4,275 were on relief, 3.457 white and 818 colored. Of the non-relief cases, there were 5,490 with incomes under $1,000; 4,251 from $1,500 to $1,999; 1,727 from $2,000 to $2,999; 639 from 83,000 to $4,999; 372 over $5,000. These are for white families. Among the col ored, there were 522 under $1,000; 158 from $1,000 to $1,499; 60 from $1,500 to 81,999; 20 from $2,000 to 82,999; 1 from 83,000 to $4,999; 1--$5,000 and over.
Estimate of Disabling Illness Throughout the Country as a
Whole, Based on the Survey
This is the prevalence of illness on an average winter day. 1935-36, based on the survey. Six million people are unable to work, attend school, etc., each day during the winter months on account of illness, injury, or gross physical impairment resulting from disease or accident. This is based on the report in which 41/2% of more than 2,300,000 persons surveyed in urban areas were reported as disabled on the day of the canvass. For Pitts burgh, with a population of roughly 750,000, this would mean
78
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
somewhere around 35,000 persons disabled on account of disease or injury on any one day.
Age and Sickness
Old persons 65 years of age and over reflected the highest proportion of sick, about one in eight of the aged being disabled on the day of the survey; in the age group 15 to 24 years the proportion of sick was only one in 40. Under 15 years, 4.2% were disabled on the day of the survey; 15-24 years, 2.5%; from 25 to 64 years (working age) 4.4%; 65 years and over, 12.1%.
Types of Illness
As the survey was made in the winter months, it is to be
expected that acute respiratory diseases would predominate, and
this proved to be the case. These diseases were responsible for
illness of a million and a half of the six millions estimated to be
ill on the day of the survey. Approximately two and a half mil
lion persons were disabled by chronic diseases and permanent
impairments. The acute infectious diseases were the causes of
illness in 250,000 persons, mostly children. About the same num
ber were disabled due to acute diseases of the stomach and liver,
and appendicitis.
. ,
Regarding frequency, illnesses that disabled for a minimum
of one week occurred at the rate of 172 per 1,000 persons can
vassed in the 12 months preceding the survey date. Applied to
the country as a whole this means 22 million illnesses disabling
for a week or longer, or 16 such illnesses for each death in 1935. In terms of the average person, this rate represents 10 days
of incapacity per year. Children under 15 years have a greater
frequency of illness, but the 'uration is low compared to !he
adult. Adults from 15 to 64 years are disabled about 9 days per
person per year. In this age group, illnesses are less frequent
than in childhood or old age, but the duration is longer than in
childhood, less than that of the group over 65 years. The average
chronic case occurred with about the same frequency as acute
respiratory disease. Yet the duration of the average chronic
case was 7 times as long as the average case of respiratory dis
ease. Orthopedic Conditions and Other Gross Permanent Impairments
Those listed as orthopedic impairments are at the rate of 19.6 per 1,000 persons. This includes losses of feet, legs, arms, fin
gers, and toes, the rate being: feet or legs, 1.0 ; hands or arms,
0.5; fingers, 5.4; toes, 0.5 (per 1,000). For impaired members the rate is 12.2 per 1,000, divided as follows: spine, back, other
trunk, 2.5; feet or legs, 6.4; hands or arms, 1.6; and other, 1.7. Blind in one eye, 3.4; partial blindness, 2.0; blind in both
ount of disease
ted the highest l being disabled to 24 years the 15 years, 4.2% ars, 2.5% ; from d over, 12.1 %.
nths, it is to be redominate, and ! responsible for estimated to be i and a half miland permanent ;e the causes of t the same numjmach and liver,
for a minimum )00 persons can ate. Applied to nesses disabling death in 1935. presents 10 days i have a greater .ompared to the ibout 9 days per re less frequent s longer than in rs. The average quency as acute average chronic
respiratory dis
ross
t the rate of 19.6 , legs, arms, fin ; hands or arms, ipaired members pine, back, other and other, 1.7. 0 ; blind in both
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
79
eyes, 0.9. Partial deafness, 11.9; deaf and dumb, 0.6; total deaf, 0.5.
Conclusions
The report states: "For those in the lowest income group, it is apparent that inadequate diet, poor housing, the hazards of occupation, and the instability of the labor market create immed iate health problems." The findings of this survey prove that the incidence of illness is greater, the duration of illness longer,
and the fraction of illness h:gher in those from the relief group, and those whose incomes are less than $1,000 a year. This sur vey proves what many of us have long contended: That the problem of medical care is not a question for the medical profes sion per se, but one of economics. When adequate food, adequate clothing, and adequate housing are ensured by the payment of adequate wages, then the illness and disability arising therefrom will be materially reduced; those who are unfortunate enough to become disabled will then be able to finance the cost of disab ling illness without undue hardship.
STANDARDS FOR EXAMINATION OF FOOD HANDLERS
The following principles in respect of examinations of food handlers have been approved by the Board of Directors of the Allegheny County Medical Society:
Realizing that the medical examinations of food-handlers and all others required by the present law should be made more thorough, it is our opinion that the following standards of examination should be accepted by employ ers, employees, and physicians:
1. All examinations to be conducted according to approved medical standards;
2. Under all circumstances the employees shall have the privilege of examination by their own family physicians;
3. Indicated laboratory examination will be done by the Pittsburgh Department of Health without charge when requested. Containers will be furnished.
4. All laboratory reports to be given only to the examining physician for appropriate action.
5. When a pelvic examination is indicated, such employees are to be referred to their family physician or to a clinic.
6. The Allegheny County Medical Society approves of the Director
of Health demanding re-examinations of any individual or group
of individuals if the first examination is, in his opinion, inadequate.
The Director of Health is requested to refer to the Committee on
Grievances of the Allegheny County Medical Society for its consid
eration and action any examinations of individuals or groups of individuals where in his opinion these examinations show evidence
of gross neglect.
GEORGE R. HARRIS, M. D., Secretary.
80
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
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PITTSBURC,Ff MEDICAL BULLETIN
81
BOARD OF DIRECTORS' MEETING
A regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Allegheny County Medical Society was held on Tuesday, December 21, 1937, at Mellon Institute. The meeting was called to order by Dr. Haythorn, Chairman of the Board, at 7:00 P. M. Those present were: Drs. Guy, Morris, Harris, Anderson, Grier, Robinson, Palmer, Arthur, Heilman, Griffith, Marcy, Haythorn, Mitchell. _
The Board was addressed by Dr. Albert Russell, U. S. Public Health Service, regarding the nation-wide syphilis attack.
Dr. I. H. Alexander asked the Board of Directors for an expression of opinion regarding the examination of food-handlers.
Dr. R. L. Anderson, Chairman of the Special Committee on Syphilis, reported progress of the Committee.
Dr. W. W. McFarland explained the educational program of the American Social Hygiene Association. Dr. Anderson moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the Special Committee on Syphilis be empowered to accept this proposal of the American Social Hygiene Association, as embodied in the following letter; that the Finance Committee of the Allegheny County Medical Society supervise the finances, and that they also be empowered to act as the Executive Committee of this fund.
" Subject to the consent of the Board of the American Social Hygiene Association, Dr. W alter Clark, Executive Director, ap proves the service plans of the Allegheny County Venereal Disease Committee.
" Subject to the same consent, any funds collected will be allocated 60% to the American Social Hygiene Association and 40% to the local Committee.
"Funds may be collected locally in a manner satisfactory to this Committee, but must be forwarded to New York for credit; remittance to the local Committee to be made from New York at stated intervals. Unexpended balance to be returned to the Amer ican Social Hygiene Association on conclusion of the local program.
"This same arrangem ent on collection is in effect in Phila delphia through their Pennsylvania Social Hygiene Committee which is a Citizens' Committee similar to the one being organized here. Further details of cooperation between the Allegheny County Venereal Disease Committee and the American Social Hygiene Association can be worked out. It will be necessary to appoint a
local Treasurer. "Suggestions: 1. Appoint an Executive Committee of three
for cooperation and planning with the American Social Hygiene
Association."
Regarding the proposed Group Hospitalization Plan of the Pittsburgh Hospital Service Association, Dr. Anderson moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the Secretary be requested to confer or correspond with the Committee of the Pittsburgh
82
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
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PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
83
Hospital Service Association and that the Executive Committee be empowered to appoint a Committee to confer with represen tatives of the Pittsburgh Hospital Service Association.
Dr. Grier moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the minutes of the November meeting of the Board of Directors be approved as circulated.
Dr. Grier moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the minutes of the Special meeting of the Board of Directors be approved as circulated.
The report of the Treasurer was read. Dr. Guy moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the report of the Treasurer be accepted.
Dr. Harris read the report of the President's Brace Fund Committee. Dr. Guy moved that the report be received and filed. Seconded and passed.
The Secretary read the report of the Judicial Board. Dr. Anderson moved to table this report until further information is received on the name referred to the Judicial Board at the November meeting. Seconded and passed.
Dr. Anderson moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the Secretary draw up a rsum of the facts relating to foodhandlers, and that the matter be referred to the Public Relations Committee with a request that this Committee render a report to this Board of Directors.
A letter regarding Health Insurance was, on motion seconded and passed, referred to the Committee on Public Health Legisla tion.
A letter was read from the State Secretary of Health and ordered filed.
A letter regarding principles from Dr. Eugene Kilgore was ordered filed.
A letter regarding the Public Health Nursing Association was ordered referred to Dr. H. T. Price, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, for answer.
A request from the Graduate Education Committee to trans fer 800.00 from checking to savings account was read. Dr. Anderson moved, and it was seconded and passed, that the Treas urer be authorized to transfer the 800.00 from checking to savings account.
On motion duly seconded and passed, the usual honoraria to Officers were ordered.
Transfer of membership of Dr. Max Levin from Dauphin to Allegheny County was, on motion seconded and passed, approved.
On motion, seconded and passed, the transfer of the Bedford Lecture Fund from the Oakland Branch of the Peoples-Pitts-
84_______________PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN ______________
burgh Trust Company to the downtown office of the same bank
was approved. Dr. Anderson moved, Dr. Grier seconded, that Dr. Charles
Graham be elected to active membership. Passed. Emeritus membership was granted to W. S. Charles and
Francis J. Madden.
_
The resignation of Dr. M. A. Green was accepted with regrets
as of December 31, 1937. Dr. Mitchell moved, Dr. Griffith seconded, that cards for use
of diabetics be distributed to doctors to be given to their patients
to carry, and that notice be placed in the Bulletin that these
cards are available. All applications for membership approved:
Jacob R. Davis
R. G. Ellis Sol Goldberg George A. Jaques W. D. McElroy
Active
W. H. Oetting, Jr. R. G. Pett C. T. Provost C. T. Rollins J. C. Staley
J. J. Stubbs
C. S. Textor J. W. Stirling L. A. W ajert A. II. W inters
R. A. Arnheim F. E. Cicchino
Interne-Visiting M. H. Graditor W. B. Patterson
S. J. Tomasi R. E. Vecchio
A. 0. Heckler--Venango L. H. Landav--Beaver A. S. Stevenson--Bedford
Transfers J. S. Corba--W estmoreland Max Levin--Dauphin
Adjournment.
Associate M. L. Menten
GEORGE R. HARRIS, M. D., Secretary.
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY POSTGRADUATE INSTITUTE
The Postgraduate Institute of the Philadelphia County Medical Society
will hold its Third Annual Session at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Phila
delphia from March 28 through April 1, 1938. The subject of the 1938 session, "Diseases of the Digestive Tract," will
be treated by a galaxy of specialists in their fields, including such outstand
ing men as Drs. Henry L. Bockus, Russell S. Boles, Earl D. Bond, Chevalier
Jackson, B. B. Vincent Lyon, T. Grier Miller, George P. Muller, Eugene P. Pendergrass, Damon B. Pfeiffer, Martin H. Rehfuss, David Riesman, William
D. Stroud.
,
The importance of postgraduate teaching has been accepted by all
physicians and the attendance at the 1937 session, participated in by physi
cians from 14 states, bears evidence of the appreciation of these sessions. The Institute officials are planning for the largest registration of any
session, and it is not too early to place the above dates on your calendar.
Inquiries should be addressed to Rufus S. Reeves, M. D., 21st and Spruce
Streets, Philadelphia.
* 1Hi'
ft lift Ip : :if<^ SS*-r *FVnV-' . RVi.
The follov
Francis P. K c University < Recoin me!
John J. Schaui Jefferson Mi Recommer.
Wilfred J. Fim Charing Cro Recoinmer
The follov
Florence M. K Woman's M; Recommei.
Samuel Sherm St. Louis U: Recomme!
Robert L. Suit University < Recommei.
Edward M. T< Edinburgh, t Recommer
To the B vu'd Allegheny As p c yo;
ex-Presidenis There are
burgh, costing I have nnv
panics and sec five cents each glass removed
Dr. McElr versity of Pitt, the Library Bv desirable.
For your i. have been 74 I
>
The portivi number (35) a
' the same bank
hat Dr. Charles ed. S. Charles and
ted with regrets
iat cards for use to their patients letin that these
J. J. Stubbs C. S. Textor J. W. Stirling L. A. W ajert A. II. W inters
S. J. Tomasi R. E. Vecchio
-W estm oreland Dauphin
. D., Secretary.
INSTITUTE
nty Medical Society :ord Hotel in Philagestive Tract," will ding such outstand-
D. Bond, Chevalier . Muller, Eugene P. d Riesman, William en accepted by all dpated in by physiof these sessions, registration of any s on your calendar. D., 21st and Spruce
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
85
APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP
The following names are published for the first time:
ACTIVE
Francis P. Kenney, 807 Westinghou.se Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. University of Indiana, 1925; State, 1925. Recommended by Frank J. Santora and R. H. Dunlap.
John J. Schaub, 5422 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa. Jefferson Medical College, 1933; State, 1934. Recommended by C. J. Bowen and M. A. Slocum.
Wilfred J. Finegold, 205 Forbes Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. Charing Ci'oss, University of London, 1935; State, 1936. Recommended by Robert C. Hamilton and M. R. Goldman.
The following names are published for the second time:
ACTIVE
Florence M. Kline, 551 Medical Arts Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. Woman's Medical College, 1904; State, 1905. Recommended by W. IV. G. Maclachlan and W. J. Fetter.
Samuel Sherman, Masonic Building, Carnegie, Pa. St. Louis University School of Medicine, 1936; State, 1937. Recommended by W. J. Connelly and Alexander H. Colwell.
Robert L. Sutton, 190 Lincoln Avenue. Bellevue, Pittsburgh, Pa. University of Pittsburgh, 1936; State, 1937. Recommended by Norman C. Ochsenhirt and F. L. Schumacher.
Edward M. Toloff, 1831 Murray Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa. Edinburgh, Scotland, 1933; State, 1935. Recommended by R. C. Hamilton and J. R. Johnston.
CORRESPONDENCE
January 17, 1938.
To the Board of Directors, Allegheny County Medical Society.
As per your request I herewith submit a x'eport on the portraits of the
ex-Presidents of our Society. There are in storage at Harrison Shields Co., 3700 Butler St., P itts
burgh, costing $3.00 per month, 38 framed (24x27!!:), single portraits.
I have made inquiries at about a dozen wholesale and retail glass com
panies and second-hand picture frame stores and was offered ten to twenty-
five cents each for the glass; but it would cost more than that to have the
glass removed from the frames. For the old frames there were no offers. _
Dr. McElroy, Assistant Dean of the Medical Department of the Uni versity of Pittsburgh, offered to allow the Society to hang the portraits in
rI
the Library Building on the Campus, which proposition seems to me quite desirable.
For your information and the records of the Society, would state there
have been 74 Presidents in 73 years of the Society's existence.
1865-1905 1905-1925
1925-1938
Single Portraits .................. 40 In one frame ...................... 20
In Portfolio .......................... 14
74
The portrait of Dr. II. T. Coffee, 1869, is missing. The balance of the
number (35) are in the Society's office.
E. E. Wible, M. D.
86
PITTSBURGH MEDICAL BULLETIN
WOMAN'S AUXILIARY
A fter the business meeting on January 18, Mrs. J. Leonard Smith, our
president, explained ju st how our yearly dues are spent. Although most
us know, we may be interested in going over it again. A state tax of $1.00
per member, $1.00 to the Medical Benevolence Fund, and four teas at $.60 /c
each, or $2.42 per year, leaves $.58 as a working capital. All incidentals
such as printing, postage, and flowers are taken from this amount.
^
The secretary read a letter from Dr. I. Hope Alexander expressing his regret at not being able to attend our last meeting, at which he was sched
uled to speak.
Flowers were sent to Dean R. R. Huggins, who was to have talkedl on
"The Student Loan Fund," but who has been ill. Dr. Huggins is held m
high esteem by all who know him.
_
Dr. Davenport Hooker, member of the Student Loan Fund Committee, brought sincere greetings and best wishes to the Auxiliary on our 12th anni versary. In 1930 the Auxiliary came to the aid of the Student Loan Fund Committee, whose purpose is to render financial aid to medical students. Twenty-eight students have received financial assistance since 1930. They m ust first make w ritten application, then show some type of security. Al though the vast m ajority are deeply grateful, 17Go of those students who
have received Auxiliary aid have made no effort to repay.
Mrs. Elsie Breese Mitchell introduced an outstanding pianist, Mrs.
Gertrude Dodds, who rendered several lovely numbers. Then Mrs. W. M. Holtz explained ju st what Vanda E. Kerst has done toward developing the
Verse Speaking Choir. The 23 charming girls from Pennsylvania College
for Women entertained with a number of delightful rhymes.
The Hygeia drive has been quite successful and to date we have 52 credits. Mrs. George Sietz asked to have checks mailed to her immediately,
as the drive closes January 31.
_
Mrs. Homer W. Grimm presented 37 new members, each wearing a lovely boutonniere. They were asked to sit together and get acquainted, and were served tea and delicious birthday cake by the executive board and aides.
We were asked to keep in mind and make every effort to hear and see Dr. Joseph H. Barach's lecture and pictures arranged for our next meeting,
March 22.
______ __________
M- S- S-
McKe e s p o r t a c a d e m y o f m e d i c i n e
A joint meeting of the McKeesport Academy of Medicine and the Valley
Medical Society will be held Monday, January 24, 1938, a t 8:30 P. M., at the Penn-McKee Hotel, McKeesport. Supper will be served following the meetinsr. The program will be given by members of the staff of Cnle Clinic,
CleVMernbers of the Allegheny County Medical Society are cordially invited
to attend.
i it i _________ _
WOMEN'S MEDICAL SOCIETY
The Women's Medical Society will meet on Tuesday, January 25, 1938, a t 7:30 P. M., in the Woman's City Club, Hotel William Penn. The guest speaker is Dr. Lawrence G. Beinhauer; his subject, "The Eczema Complex.
Members of the Allegheny County Medical Society are cordially invited to attend.
(
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