The Medical Imaging Department at Port Alberni’s West Coast General Hospital (WCGH) has a new, “much-needed” ultrasound machine thanks to a donation from the WCGH Foundation.
Doctor John Saliken, a radiologist at WCGH, said the new purchase is “very exciting” for the hospital.
“The technology just keeps getting better and better. This one offers a higher resolution and better quality all around,” he explained. “We can see things we just couldn’t see before.”
The previous ultrasound machine is around five to six years old, but technology is constantly improving and the new equipment offers several new features. Along with better quality imaging and infinite focus, the new equipment is easier to use and it also tells doctors more about the structure of tissue, which can allow patients to avoid invasive biopsies.
“That’s a big deal, to avoid biopsies,” said Saliken.
The equipment was paid for by the WCGH Foundation, through a combination of fundraising and proceeds from Alberni Lifeline. Lifeline, run by WCGH Foundation, is a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week monitoring service for seniors in the Alberni Valley.
“All profits go go to the Foundation and contribute to purchases like this,” explained WCGH Foundation director Chris Francey, who offers thanks to Alberni Lifeline subscribers for their help.
The WCGH Foundation is one of the hospital’s fundraising partners, raising funds to purchase essential equipment. Most recently, the WCGH Foundation has helped to provide new physiotherapy equipment at the hospital, as well as free wi-fi for patients and visitors. The new ultrasound equipment has been seeing plenty of use already.
“It really makes a difference in terms of better diagnoses,” said Saliken.
For more information about the Foundation, or to make a donation, contact wcghfoundation@viha.ca or call 250-731-1370, ext. 48148.
elena.rardon@albernivalleynews.com
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