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Problem of Indian Administration

aware of the deficiencies in their buildings and equipments. They report that they have repeatedly asked for additional funds to rectify conditions, but in most instances with little result.

Laboratory equipment, both clinical and X-Ray, absolutely essential for a modern sanatorium, is likewise deficient. At present not a single sanatorium has an adequate clinical laboratory or an X-Ray outfit installed, but some provision is now being made for the purchase of X-Ray outfits. The occasional X-Ray examinations now made are done at outside laboratories. At Phoenix, these examinations cost seven dollars each. The clinical laboratory at Fort Lapwai was designed to be in connection with the drug room, a room without outside windows. At this sanatorium, space was provided for an X-Ray outfit in the basement of the hospital. The patients would have had to walk, or to be carried down a long stairway. Only the most insistent protest from a visiting officer against the recommendations of the Indian Office architect and the agency officers changed this location to the first floor. A large room on the first floor intended for dispensary purposes has been divided to accommodate this equipment when it arrives.

Approximately two thousand dollars has been allowed for an X-Ray outfit for this institution. This sum will purchase only a portable machine, better than nothing, but inadequate for the demands made upon such equipment in the modern sanatorium.

The Indian Service will have this year funds amounting to $3100 to secure X-Ray equipment for the Fort Lapwai sanatorium. This is intended to purchase one unit.[1]

Actinotherapy in the form of quartz lights has been provided in the Chippewa, Fort Lapwai, Sac and Fox, and Talihina sanatoria. This method of treatment has been long accepted as of value, especially in extra-pulmonary forms of tuberculosis.

Occupational therapy equipment is not provided, and dental equipment is usually supplied by the traveling dentist.

Grade schools are operated in connection with all these institutions. The personnel in charge is of no higher standard than that found in the boarding schools.

  1. Hospitals at Forts Browning, Peck, and Lapwai are receiving X-ray equipment from savings and not by special appropriation. The budget for 1929 is asking for five portable units at $1600 each, and five standard with fluoroscope at $3000 each.