Portable X-ray bolsters orthopedic care in Camrose
March 17, 2011
Investment part of Government of Alberta’s 3-Year Health Capital Plan
CAMROSE — Local orthopedic surgeons are able to view real-time images of patients during surgery with the replacement of a portable X-ray machine at St. Mary’s Hospital. The $205,000 machine, known as a C-arm, can be wheeled into an operating suite, allowing surgeons to see where they’re placing screws, wires and plates, giving them the ability to verify their work during procedures.
“X-rays play an important role in diagnosis and treatment,” says Tracy Sommerfeld, Executive Director of Community and Rural Hospitals for the Central Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS). “Having the ability to view images during a procedure can increase the likelihood of positive outcomes and reduce the need for follow-up surgery.”
The Government of Alberta has committed $209 million for maintenance projects, through the Infrastructure Maintenance Program (IMP), and $75 million for technology and equipment, all part of the province’s 3-Year Health Capital Plan. The IMP budget provides funding to cover the cost of repairs, upgrades, maintenance and replacement of building systems and building service equipment at 128 sites throughout the province. The technology and equipment budget provides funding to replace and upgrade medical equipment and technology throughout the province.
Funding for the C-arm is part of a $631,000 investment in diagnostic imaging enhancements at St. Mary’s Hospital over the past year.
“This is a major investment in St. Mary’s Hospital that will help local residents who require orthopedic care,” says Verlyn Olson, MLA for Wetaskiwin-Camrose. “The Government of Alberta is committed to ensuring Albertans receive high-quality patient care in their communities. With the arrival of the portable X-ray machine, more Camrose residents will be able to get the care they need, much closer to home.”
More than 100 orthopedic surgeries are performed annually at St. Mary’s Hospital, which is operated by Covenant Health in conjunction with AHS. It is expected the new equipment will be used during almost all orthopedic procedures.
“This investment is an important part of helping our patients stay well,” says Cherylyn Antymniuk, Executive Director of St. Mary’s Hospital. “It is vital that we keep our health care infrastructure up to date and progressive.”
Covenant Health is Canada’s largest Catholic health care organization, serving in 11 communities across Alberta. As a major provider in Alberta’s integrated health system, Covenant Health works with AHS and community partners to positively influence the health of Albertans through a broad range of programs and services in our hospitals, health centres and continuing care facilities.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.7 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
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For media inquiries, contact:
Heather Pickett
Alberta Health Services
Communications
403-341-8687
Covenant Health is Canada's largest Catholic health care organization with over 14,000 physicians, employees and volunteers serving in 11 communities across Alberta. A major provider in Alberta's integrated health system, Covenant Health works with Alberta Health Services and community partners to positively influence the health of Albertans through a broad range of programs and services. www.covenanthealth.ca
