A motion was offered, which failed of adoption, to the effect that the Director of the Veterans’ Bureau set aside a certain amount for the reimbursement of unavoidable losses of property of ex-service men in hospitals.
DR. KRULISH: was of the opinion that if the foregoing resolution was adopted, that more trouble would be experienced than before.
It was further brought out that such a motion would carry no weight; that it was thought the service had this question up once before and the Comptroller’s office advised that no money arrangements could be made and it was not believed that the Veterans’ Bureau could make allowance for losses of clothing.
It was also stated in this connection that in some institutions steel lockers had been provided, a small deposit being required, which was given back when the key was returned, under which arrangement very little clothing was lost.
DR. HETERICK: stated that his institution is equipped with steel lockers and a small deposit required, which is returned when the patient is discharged; that the patient is told that due preparation has been made for taking care of his clothing and it is in his custody; that the installation of these lockers has reduced the theft of personal property to a minimum; that some times, however, lockers will be broken into.
The meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m.
Fourth Session Wednesday, January 18, 1922.
Present: Members of the Federal Board of Hospitalization; also, about one hundred conferees.
GEN. CUMMING, presiding, called the meeting to order.
DR. WHITE called the roll, and read the following announcement: