DAGGERS DRAWN

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 440, 23 August 1928, Page 1

DAGGERS DRAWN

HOSPITAL SUPERINTENDENT AND DOCTOR CHARGES “STICK IN GIZZARD” (From Our Own Correspondent) KAITAIA, To-day. The question of whether a nurse should be employed to give anaesthetics in major operations was again discussed at a meeting of the Mangonui Hospital Board yesterday, when the action of Dr. Cameron, medical superintendent, in employing the matron to give anaesthetics instead of the board’s appointed anaesthetist, Dr. H. G. Rix, caused a lively dispute. “There is a very strong and decided feeling among ratepayers,” said Mr. C. B. Michie, “and it is very evident that there are strained relations between the two doctors. We must try to bring about a reconciliation or make changes in our officials.” Mr. E. A. Evans: If patients don’t like the matron giving anaesthetics, let them have a qualified man, so long as they pay for it. Dr. Cameron: I have no objection to the doctor giving anaesthetics provided patients will pay for it. If I had been present at the meeting when Dr. Rix was appointed I would have objected to the appointment. I am considering expense. The board used to pay ten guineas a day for an anaesthetist; that was outrageous. Even seven guineas is too much. It sticks m my gizzard, I can tell you. Mr. L. A. Mclntosh: It should be a matter of policy that patients should have a qualified anaesthetist whether they can pay for it or not. It is the plain duty of the board to provide patients with the best service possible, and there is no need to employ the matron when a competent medical practitioner is already appointed by the board.

Mr. Michie: It is patent to everybody that there is private trouble between the doctors. I propose we go into committee to find out what it is. Dr. Rix: Why creep into committee? Mr. Michie: I take the strongest exception to that remark.

Dr. Rix: I don't see why you should go into committee unless one of the medical men has something to hide. Mr. Mclntosh: I wish to point out that the appointment of Dr. Rix was made for one year. Dr. Cameron: Does that mean that I have to go on working for a year with a man I prefer not to work with?