Britain's Child Health Services: Some Strengths and Weaknesses

Britain's National Health Service was introduced in July 1948, and, as its first 25 years draw to a close, a major reappraisal of its administrative machinery is taking place, and a new format is to be introduced on April 1, 1974. The National Health Service was bound to have faults, but its principal aims have been achieved to the great advantage of the British public. It has raised overall the standard of medical care, it has removed for everyone the fear of financial hardship in the event of sickness, and it has been of particular benefit to children of every social class, for whom it has provided a consultant pediatric hospital service throughout the length and breadth of the land. Development of Medical Care for English Children Maternity and Child Welfare Service .—Before 1850, little was done for the sick child; families were large, life was cheap, children were unwelcome