On the XJlility of PuUic Dispensaries. 313 



Eat these are not the only advantages attending such in- 

 stitutions ; they also present a wide field for observation 

 and experience to the practitioner. Many cases of rare oc- 

 currence come under his care, and he is enabled to collect 

 many useful and important facts. 



Thus, while dispensaries extend their salutary influence 

 to the diseased poor, they are subservient to the improve- 

 ment of the healing art. 



Every communication respecting these institutions must 

 be interestmg. The manner in which they arc supported ; 

 the mode in which they are conducted ; the aggregate in 

 which they remove or diminish human miserv"; in which 

 they cure or alleviate disease, and restore the objects of 

 their care to their families, their friends, to the commu- 

 nity, are all topics deeply interesting; and not less so are 

 the histories of instructive cases, and the detail of im- 

 portant facts. It is proper that those who contribute to 

 the support of these institutions should know the benefits 

 derived from their philanthropy and munificence: it is 

 proper that others should know them, that they may be 

 induced to follow their example. It is also proper that 

 the history of every instructive case should be faithfully 

 told. The addition of one real fact to the general stock 

 of- medical or surgical kjiowledge is a gem of inestimable 

 value. 



From these considerations I have resolved to publish the 

 surgical reports of the City and Finsburv Dispensaries^ in 

 conducting which I shall observe the following plan : 



1st, I shall state the number of patients admitted under 

 my care, in a given time, at each of these institutions. 



2dly, I shall state the general events nnder the heads of 

 cured, relieved, &c. And, 



3dly, I shall make a few general observations on some of 

 the more important cases, avoiding, as much as possible, 

 technical terms, or those of art, winch could be understood 

 only by persons connected with medical science. 



Surgical Putiatits admitted into the Fuislmry Dispensary^ 

 St. John's Scf tare, from the ist of October to the 31 ^t 

 if December, 19G. 



Cured - - -ill 



Kclievcd - _ _ 2 



Irregular - _ _ [ 



Dead ... a 



Uodtr cure Decembei 3 1 st - 80 



196 



Tiiirly- 



