Bladder screening tech given by Lions
Displaying the new bladder screening tool, donated by Gore Pakeke Lions, are (from left) Pakeke Lions member Murray Ross, secretary Brian Pitcher, Gore Health chief executive Karl Metzler and Gore Pakeke Lions president Ross Dickie. PHOTO: GERRIT DOPPENBERG.
A new bladder screening tool at Gore Hospital will allow flexibility for both healthcare professionals and patients, and was funded entirely by the Gore Pakeke Lions.
The Meike portable bladder scanner gives the medical practitioner live images and real time measurements of the patient's bladder, giving a non-invasive peek into the goings-on.
The portability will allow district nurses to perform home visits, often saving people in a vulnerable time considerable time and effort.
The machine, which cost around $7000, was funded entirely through the Gore Pakeke Lions after their member Murray Low brought it up at their meeting.
To put it into perspective, to cover the cost the Pakeke Lions would have had to recycle around three tonnes of aluminum cans.
Mr Low said he found out about the need for a machine after a check-up with a district nurse, and felt he could help the Gore Community by getting the funding.
"I was having ongoing treatment and I heard they were borrowing from other hospitals and I said we've got money, that's what it's for and it's what we do.
"Now patients won't have to travel far to get their bladders screened, or even at all as the device means those in need can get their check-up at their own home."
Gore Health chief executive Karl Metzler said he was extremely grateful for the support of the Pakeke Lions, which has been equally continuous and generous.
"A really heartfelt thanks to the Pakeke Lions for their support.
"It also needs to be said, this isn't a one-off.
"The Lions have supported this hospital and healthcare facility from day one and we shouldn't underestimate the tens of thousand they have so generously donated for often life-preserving equipment," he said.
gerrit.doppenberg@alliedpress.co.nz
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