Lions Club of Woolgoolga President-elect Joginder Garcha with the portable ECG, ED Nurse Unit Manager Clare Scullion with the Airvo, Lions Luke Graham and Joy O'Shea, Director of Emergency Medicine Dr Alan Tankel, President John Moon and Past President Jean Vickery.
Woopi Lions boost emergency care with $31,800 donation
Nov 27, 2024The Lions Club of Woolgoolga has again demonstrated its support for healthcare in the region with a generous donation of $31,795.51 to the Emergency Department at Coffs Harbour Health Campus.
The funds purchased vital equipment, including a portable ECG ($15,742.51) and an Airvo respiratory support system ($16,053).
The portable electrocardiogram (ECG) is a life-saving tool that records the heart’s electrical activity, assisting in diagnosing conditions like abnormal heart rhythms and coronary heart disease. With Wi-Fi connectivity to the hospital’s electronic medical records, this device eliminates transcription errors and reduces reliance on paper notes, streamlining patient care during busy periods. Its portability enables the ED team to conduct ECGs in areas without fixed monitors, ensuring timely responses to urgent cardiac issues.
The Airvo respiratory system is a medical-grade humidifier with a high-flow generator that provides essential respiratory support and airway hydration. It is crucial for patients with acute respiratory failure, COPD, or those who are immunocompromised. The device’s ability to move with the patient from the Emergency Department to Critical Care ensures continuity of care, while its real-time data supports clinicians in making prompt, informed treatment decisions.
Coffs Harbour Health Campus Director of Emergency Medicine Dr Alan Tankel said he was grateful for the Lions’ continued generosity.
“We are eternally grateful for the incredible support from the Lions Club of Woolgoolga. The equipment they’ve provided not only enhances our ability to deliver care but truly saves lives,” Dr Tankel said.
“Their dedication to our community is nothing short of inspiring.”
Mid North Coast Local Health District spokesperson Sharon Fuller said the Lions Club of Woolgoolga may be a small club, but its contributions are mighty.
“Over the past nine years, they have donated a remarkable $211,000 to Coffs Harbour Health Campus, significantly enhancing care for local patients,” Ms Fuller said.
“This includes critical equipment such as a $19,000 SOZO device for cancer patients at the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, $35,000 for a defibrillator for ED, $16,00 for a bladder scanner, a NIKKI pump for palliative patients, and $20,000 worth of postnatal equipment for Maternity.
“The Lions’ commitment to the health and well-being of their community is evident in their tireless efforts to raise funds and support the hospital. Their generosity has made a lasting impact, ensuring that patients in the region receive the best possible care,” Ms Fuller said.