Generosity of Donors Helps Patient Experience
When Dr. Szczepanek performed the RFL procedure on Linda's back she had no idea that without the generosity of our donors, her experience would have been much different. In February of 2009 Trinity Health Foundation purchased a Radiofrequency Generator, the machine used to perform a radiofrequency lesioning.
The Pain Management Center received a $27,250 grant to purchase the machine through Trinity Health Foundation's In-House Grant Program. The Radiofrequency Generator allows the Trinity Pain Management Center the ability to provide services that are not otherwise offered in an area north to the Iowa/Minnesota border, south to Ames, east to Waterloo and west to Sioux City.
Prior to the purchase of the new equipment, the Pain Management Center was using a Radiofrequency Generator purchased in 2001. Advancements in technology have cut the procedure time from one hour or more, to 20 - 25 minutes, allows for the procedure to be done with less sedation, requires less staff time and has improved physician efficiency. The time savings allows for more procedures to be performed and increases staff productivity. In the first month of operation, more procedures were completed than in the previous nine months.
"This is a great example of how our donors can see their contributions at work," said Shannon McQuillen, Executive Director of Trinity Health Foundation. "If you receive services at Trinity Regional Medical Center, it is very possible those services are enhanced by contributions to Trinity Health Foundation."