Raising $$ for local health-related needs

The 2019 Odessa Healthcare Foundation’s annual wine tasting, microbrew sampling and auction is rapidly approaching. We look forward to an evening of fun and celebration, all in service of advancing healthcare in Odessa.

The proceeds from the 2019 auction will be used to purchase a 12-lead ECG/defibrillator/monitor for the Odessa ambulance. The ambulance currently uses an automated external defibrillator, which simply gives instruction to shock only if the patient has a shockable rhythm. By contrast, the new equipment is far superior, as it allows real time cardiac monitoring and will elevate the service provided in Odessa to the national benchmark level of care. It will help determine cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks in the field, rather than waiting until the patient reaches the emergency department.

Our current equipment allows no monitoring, thereby preventing any cardiac rhythm interpretation or early intervention. Certain diagnoses, especially STEMI (S-T wave elevation myocardial infarction) are very time sensitive for optimal outcome. Having this equipment will allow the EMS to communicate critical information to the hospital prior to arrival and to facilitate the fastest treatment. The equipment allows the EMS to print rhythm strips so that the providers will know exactly what’s been happening prior to hospital arrival simply by looking at the strip. This will contribute to more accurate and timely decision-making and diagnosis.

One particularly advantageous feature of this equipment is its enhanced CPR feedback. For example, it provides “see-through CPR,” which allows the EMS to see if an underlying rhythm begins once CPR has been initiated. It also provides feedback for depth and frequency of compressions, ensuring that CPR providers have the best knowledge in the moment to perform at expected standards. Overall, this unit is state-of-the-art field equipment to give patients the best chance at survival when seconds count.

The “Raise the Paddle” proceeds from this year’s event will provide for purchase of a special exam table for the clinic. This exam table is particularly desired, as it will allow patients with mobility and balance challenges to begin in a seated position and then move to a flat position if necessary. Many patients have difficulty maneuvering a stool to climb onto an exam table at regular height. This new table will provide easy access for those who are in pain, whose who have difficulty ambulating and for those with balance problems.

Please join the Odessa Healthcare Foundation on Friday, May 3, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on-line at http://omhf.maestroweb.com or http://www.odessahealthcarefoundation.com or paper tickets can be purchased at Odessa Drug or at the front desk of Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center. As always, the event will feature wine and microbrew sampling and heavy hors d’oeuvres.