Operation tournament raises funds for PCHS radiology purchases

The Radiology Department at Perkins County Health Services is purchasing $47,000 worth of new equipment that will enhance the safety, convenience and comfort for patients at PCHS.
The funds were raised primarily through an “Operation” tournament and silent auction in November.
Twenty-eight teams of two participated in the tournament, which was held at the Arnold Insurance building in Grant. Finals were hosted by Dr. Shane Banks, chief of staff at PCHS. Tournament winners were Drs. Eric and Tori Gengenbach.
“We had outstanding support from the community both as sponsors and in team registrations,” said Banks.
Businesses and individuals contributed to the fundraiser with gifts to be auctioned. “The silent auction was also strongly supported and we had some amazing packages,” said Jackie Urdahl, administrator for the PCHS Foundation.
 New equipment
Included in the new purchases for the radiology department are:
• Holigistic smart breast paddles, which provide a curved compression surface that offers a more comfortable experience during a mammogram;
• an ultrasound probe disinfection unit that reduces the risk of probe-related infections;
• a blanket-warmer for the CT room and heating pads for IV starts;
• a small refrigerator for the MRI to provide water for patients following the procedure, which tends to make patients thirsty;
• a TV monitor for the ultrasound room that enables patients to watch their baby on the screen;
• a storage rack and stabilizer to store transducers for the ultrasound room;
• an air cushion used for moving patients more safely and comfortably;
• a magnetic system for doors between the emergency room, x-ray and CT to more easily transfer patients;
• keyless entry doors to diagnostic imaging dept. to keep patient information secure;
• a protective wall liner where the C-arm for surgical cases and the chair for breast biopsies are housed.
The PCHS radiology department served 4,270 patients from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 and performed 6,798 tests. “Just think what those patients would have had to do if they had to travel 50-300 miles or more to receive those same tests,” said Urdahl. “The process of diagnosis is stressful—having digital imaging here in Grant helps to reduce the stress of driving to another location, working with different doctors and technicians, and going to an unfamiliar facility. Not to mention the financial burdens associated with traveling.”
“Testing at PCHS allows patients to be surrounded by familiar medical staff and their support system. These factors play a huge role in the patient’s well being,” Urdahl added.
“The community and event supporters made it possible to purchase this equipment that will help our staff to continue to provide the highest quality of care possible for our patients,” said Neil Hilton, CEO at PCHS.