The operation of a venereology clinic in the West End of London

Abstract

A period of employment at James Pringle House provided the opportunity of observing how the growing problem of sexually transmitted diseases is being dealt with in London. Paramedical staff plays a vital role in the efficient running of the clinic. Diagnostic procedures which could be adopted to advantage in Malta are discussed. It is regretted that the services of professional contact tracers are not available in Malta. Failure to chase up asymptomatic carriers leads to underestimation of the problem, and constitutes a public health hazard. While it is all right to practise Venereology with Dermatology, British experience indicates that it is more advisable to have independent V.D. clinics, especially if the incidence of Sexually transmitted diseases reaches the epidemic proportions it has done in most countries.