UPDATE: Greater Regional Health has just announced the approval of $500,000 for essential upgrades aimed at enhancing hospital operations. This decision, made during the board of trustees meeting on October 23, 2023, comes as the hospital continues to expand its services to meet growing community needs.
The approved purchases include new firewalls for data servers, advanced medical base stations for sleep studies, and updated flooring for the Medical Arts Plaza. These improvements are crucial for accommodating the hospital’s recent growth and ensuring seamless operations.
During the meeting, Network and Systems Analyst Ryan Cook highlighted the urgent need for updated firewalls. The previous system, installed in 2020, has reached its maximum capacity, causing regular disruptions to data services. “Everything we do anymore is over internet connections,” Cook emphasized, noting that system failures had become increasingly problematic during peak hours.
The total cost for the firewalls and management console is estimated at $358,000, but the hospital expects to offset up to 65% of this expense through funding from the Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC). This federal program has been a reliable source of financial support for Greater Regional and is projected to continue through 2025.
Chief of Staff Matthew Epp explained that the upgrades could significantly boost staff productivity. “I think this is a 5-6% productivity improvement for myself,” Epp stated, projecting a potential 10% increase across the workforce. This efficiency is vital for the hospital’s 450 employees who rely on consistent internet connectivity for patient care.
In addition to the firewalls, Katy Brown, Director of Respiratory Therapy, introduced plans to purchase new Nox Medical sleep study equipment. The estimated cost for four base stations and eight home devices was initially set at $139,714, but a competitive bid of $111,314 was approved, allowing for enhanced sleep study capabilities both in-lab and at home. This upgrade is expected to facilitate up to 30 at-home tests each month, significantly increasing data collection for patient diagnostics.
Lastly, the board approved a flooring update for the Medical Arts Plaza. Chief Clinic Officer Carol Eckels shared that the new flooring, estimated at $45,000, was secured at a lower bid of $28,534, enhancing the facility’s appearance and functionality.
These upgrades are not just about modernization; they represent Greater Regional Health’s commitment to providing top-tier care to its community. As the hospital continues to expand, these investments will be instrumental in ensuring that staff can deliver quality care efficiently.
As these developments unfold, keep an eye on Greater Regional Health’s progress and how these upgrades impact patient services and staff productivity in the coming months. The hospital’s proactive approach signals a bright future for healthcare in the region, making it a crucial topic for community discussion.