Medical inspection of schools / by A.H. Hogarth.

  • Hogarth, A. H. (Archibald Henry), 1877-1919.
Date:
1909
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Medical inspection of schools / by A.H. Hogarth. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    14/376 (page 2)
    The truth of the principle that prevention is better than cure is appreciated only in the face of actual and imminent danger, such as the outbreak of cholera or small-pox. In such an emergency nothing is left undone, no expedient is left untried. The preventive measures adopted may even savour of extravagance. But the crisis weathered, our national lethargy resumes its sway. It is thought unnecessary and contrary to precedent to make costly provision for possible, or even for probable, contingencies. And under a form of government theoretically democratic, legislative en¬ thusiasm is not to be anticipated in regard to any principle which is still awaiting general acceptance. Public opinion must first be impressed by solid argu¬ ment based on substantial facts and common sense. Then progress may be expected. Here, consequently, is found one reason why public opinion in England, and even the medical profession itself, has for so many years withheld judgment upon the necessity for the medical inspection of school children. Had the importance of preventive measures been more thoroughly realized, there would have been less delay both in the recognition of the necessity for, and in the institution of, medical inspection. The most superficial physical examination at school undoubtedly tends to prevent much actual ill health, owing to the resultant discovery of disease in its early stages as well as of many simple ailments which might ultimately become serious.