The Birmingham age-herald., 1907-06-26
Everyone Says Something Must Be Done to Relieve HoS-
 pitaI Conditions Here
HOSPITAL EXCLUSIVELY
 FOR NEGROES SUGGESTED
Mayor Ward Thinks the City Is Doing Its Part by Paying Taxes to the County-Physician Hold
 Meeting.

It begins to appear that the cry of the injured of Birmingham for more room in the hospitals will be answered and that before many months ample provision will be made for all who need assistance.
 Yesterday afternoon a meeting of tho St. Vincents hospital staff was held at the hospital, and committees were ap- pointed to take steps looking to the im- mediate erection of another wing to the hospital. The physicians present were Dr. Cunningham Wilson, Dr. L. Whaley, Dr. H. E. Presley, Dr. H. s. Ward, Dr. J. M. Mason, pr. E. M. Price, Dr. Cabot Lull, Dr. w. J. w. Peters, pr. E. M. Rob- inson, Dr. J. D. Heacock, Dr. w H. Will der and pr Gaston Torrance.
 The physicians discussed the pros and cons of the situation and came to the conclusion that something must be done right away. They were not willing to dis close all of their plaus, but intimate that something of general importance will be ready for the public in few days. They will meet again today or tomorrow.
 Urge Immediate Attention.
 The sisters in charge of the hospital are desirous of doing all they can for the charity patients of the city. Realiz- ing the crowded condition of the wards, they have urged immediate action, that the city may do it's part
 On the other hand, the county hospital will also receive attention. All the phys- clans of the city are bringing pressure to bear for immediate action. While the board of revenue is now crowded with the county jail muddle, when this is cleared away, 1t promises to take a hand.
 Dr. Heacock said yesterday: 'I am glad to see the need of more hospital room agi- tated, for 1 believe it will do good. 1 can say for the visiting staffs of both hospitals that we are heartily in favor of the movement and will do all we can to push it.
 q believe the proposition to erect a col ored hospital is the key to the situation. It ought to be done right away. The county can spend Its money in no better way than for the assistance of the sick and injured"
 Mayor Ward Talks.
 Mayor Ward said: q do not doubt but that the hospitals are crowded to their fullest capacity. think the county should do something to better the conditions. The city of Birmingham, however, should not be expected to take hand, for it is d mere part of the county There Is no
  pay taxes twice for the purpose. The county has undertaken to care for the sick and should carry 1t out"
 The mayor also said there is no reason why injured and sick people should lie out in the streets for hours as have been reported. The policemen are responsible for them and if they cannot find place to send them. it is their duty to notify the mayor immediately. Mayor Ward will then find place In short order.
 If the county takes the matter up many would suggest that the proposed new col ored hospital be put in charge of Dr. Pettiford, the president of the Penny Savings bank, and he, with a staff of colored physicians, be made responsible for the colored charity patients, just as the staff at the Hillnan is responsible to the board of revenue at present.
 Let something be done quickly" is the universal demand.