Problem of Two Professions

The American Medical Association threw a bolo punch last week at U.S. doctors who violate the ethics of their ancient profession by cooperating with one reputed to be even older. "The physician who examines prostitutes and gives them certificates implying freedom from venereal disease," said the A.M.A.'s Journal, "is a collaborator in an unlawful racket. He aids a business which degrades morals, causes corruption and spreads dangerous infections."

Law enforcement, said the Journal, is more difficult in places where prostitution wears "the respectable mantle" of medical supervision. "Prostitutes and their agents want 'health cards' for their value in attracting trade . . . A familiar sales talk of the pimps and madams is: 'Our girls are all clean. Our doctor examines each one every two weeks. You'll find the doctor's certificates right in the girls' rooms.' "

It is not true, said the Journal, that a routine physical examination and blood test can prove freedom from disease. A thorough examination might last an hour; it would require the taking of tissue samples, and laboratory work which might cost $50. Obviously all this is not done, and even if it were, the doctor might still have overlooked something. Or the certified prostitute might be infected by her next customer.

Reason for the A.M.A.'s renewed interest in an old problem: military and industrial mobilization, which always gives prostitution a boost.

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