The Newman Regional Health board of directors approved more than $1 million in capitol expenditures during Wednesday’s board meeting.
The board approved a total amount of $1,388,305 in expenditures for four purchases. One of the purchases was related to orthopedic equipment. The board approved up to $200,000 to buy new orthopedic equipment in preparation for hiring a new orthopedist. The hospital is preparing for the closure of Emporia’s Orthopedic Associates at the end of this year and is searching for an orthopedist. An orthopedist from Overland Park visited the hospital recently and board members say they hope that person will take the job and start at the beginning of next year.
Board members also approved $431,270 for point-of-care equipment. This equipment provides handheld computer terminals for nurses. The devices can scan barcodes on medication and receive patient information. The information is transmitted wirelessly to the hospital’s patient-record system. It will provide real-time feedback for nurses, said Holly French, chief financial officer.
The purchase of a new chiller machine for the hospital also was approved on Wednesday for $250,000. The machine chills water and provides air conditioning to the hospital. It is one of three units needed for peak operation. The new 400-ton chiller will replace a 200-ton chiller that was purchased in 1976.
The cost of the renovation of west wing also was approved at $507,035. The work is set to start in November and continue through October 2007. The renovation will include gutting the entire wing, including the removal of all non-conforming electrical wiring.
During the meeting, Ken Calhoun of the Newman Regional Health Foundation presented the board with specific goals that the foundation has developed. The goals include development and delivery of health-care services, outreach and prevention and health-care research.
Calhoun also said the foundation is looking for a part-time director to run the foundation.