(Photo MBC News)
The Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation says local donors are helping keep quality health care close to home.
Foundation CEO Margot Hallam says the past year has shown once again how much the hospital depends on the generosity of people across the region.
Hallam says the foundation raised about $1.7 million over the past fiscal year. That money helped pay for important equipment at both hospital sites, including a coagulation analyzer for the lab, an infant warmer for obstetrics in Smiths Falls, patient beds, ventilators and stretchers.
She says many people are still surprised to learn that hospital equipment is not funded by the government.
The need continues to grow. The hospital recorded 38,442 emergency department visits, 4,058 admissions, 3,876 MRI scans, 9,562 CT scans, 10,552 ultrasounds, 37,202 X-rays and 1,154 chemotherapy visits in the past year.
Hallam says a growing and aging population means modern equipment is needed every day.
Current needs include six stretchers at $6,000 each, 15 vital sign machines at $26,001 each, an anesthesia machine, a point-of-care ultrasound, defibrillators and medication carts.
Hallam says every donation supports patients, families, neighbours and hospital staff.
Donations can be made online at psfdhfoundation.com, at foundation offices in Perth or Smiths Falls, or by calling 343-881-GIVE.
You can listen to Bob’s complete chat with Margo below.
