Fundraising our way to better health outcomes

November 15, 2022

Throughout 2021-22, Northern Health Foundation has been fundraising for new ophthalmology equipment for Broadmeadows Hospital. The campaign contributed to the purchase of new, state-of-the-art equipment for patients in our northern community with cataracts – a cloudy film covering the lens of the eye, causing loss of vision or even blindness.

As our community grows and ages, so does our equipment. The time has come to retire ophthalmology equipment at Broadmeadows Hospital to make way for the latest models. With demand for cataract surgery increasing, the need for more efficient equipment became evident.

Thanks to the support of our donors, this specialised equipment can now be purchased, enabling our patients to access a better quality of care within their community. Not only will the new equipment allow for quicker turnover of patients and reduce waiting periods, but the equipment will last for years to come.

Tracey Wyllie, Director of Operations – Peri Operative Services, said, “I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the Foundation to ensure we can deliver this equipment to the team at the Surgical Centre. I’m sure the team will be excited to be trialing options, with the understanding that one of them will soon be procured. This is one of those pieces of work that will see the patient, the medical team and the nursing staff all benefit. Very exciting!”

The Foundation raised over $230,000 to contribute to this cause, so this state-of-the-art equipment could be purchased.

Linda Romano, Divisional Director Nursing, Surgical Services and Access, said, “It is really exciting to hear, that with the $230,000 funds raised from the Foundation and $229,000 innovation fund, we can now progress this important equipment replacement.”

“Knowing this is a reality, will bring much excitement to our nursing and medical staff. The positive impact this will have on our staff and patients is enormous. Thank you again to the Foundation for their support.”

Pina Di Donato, Executive Director Public Affairs and Foundation, was thrilled by the outcome, saying, “Fulfilling a promise is what rewards us most. We made a commitment to bring the latest ophthalmology equipment to Broadmeadows Hospital, and we are delighted to see that commitment realised. We are thrilled that our fundraising efforts have made a significant contribution to purchasing this equipment. Our community deserves access to the best possible care. That is what we, as a health service, strive for.”

We thank our donors who continue to support Northern Health and Northern Health Foundation in our vision to build a healthier community.

Featured image: Dr Suheb Ahmed.