"Clinical Branch Overview"
An interpretive Summary 
Kirk H. Webster, MD
Chief, Clinical Service
DHHS/HRSA/BPHC
Division of National Hansen's Disease Programs
Baton Rouge, La.

• Progressive decrease in world Hansen's disease prevalence but stable incidence
• Under reported in U. S.
• Lack of progress in precise definition of transmission caused by inability to culture organisms on artificial media and lack of laboratory methods to establish early diagnosis
• NHDP provides a network of facilities to provide outpatient care and a Baton Rouge facility to provide both inpatient and outpatient care
• Program provides comprehensive services including medical and surgical services, pathology, pharmaceutical, occupational and physical therapy
• Strong laboratory research division and department of biomedical engineering