BGH Foundation awards funds for endoscopy tower

The Bonner General Health Foundation recently presented the hospital's surgical team with a check for over $300,000. 

The funds, raised at the foundation's annual Heart Ball, were presented to the team April 9 toward the purchase of an additional endoscopy tower and cleaning system at the hospital.

With colon cancer as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, Bonner General officials said they saw a need to better protect the community by providing additional screenings. Not only does this piece of equipment provide just that, but it also serves as a screening, diagnostic, evaluation, and treatment tool for colonoscopies and screenings from the esophagus to the colon.

"Adding this new endoscopy equipment will allow Bonner General Health to provide endoscopy services to a greater number of patients, providing routine screening, diagnostic testing, and treatment in a timely and efficient manner," Johnna Ramsey, Surgical Department director said. "This is a win for the community."

Bonner General Health will add an additional endoscopy tower, two colonoscopes, one upper endoscope, a new state-of-the-art storage cabinet, and a new reprocessing room.

"All of these additions and upgrades will increase the capabilities of our endoscopy services," Ramsey said. "We look forward to this growth and increasing access to this service in our community."

The 16th annual Heart Ball, a testament to the unwavering support of over 200 Sandpoint and regional supporters of BGH, was a resounding success. This event, which brought community members together, was a celebration of Sandpoint's local hometown hospital and a demonstration of the community's commitment to its health. It was an evening of touching testimonials, delectable desserts, and inspiring speeches, all of which contributed to the funds raised for the purchase of the Endoscopy equipment.

The Bonner General Foundation Board was thrilled to provide this opportunity.  

“Successful communities must have two things, quality healthcare and education," said longtime board member Georgia Simmons, who along with her husband, Howard, are original members of the Foundation, adding the group is a passion for the couple. "BGH gives us excellent affordable services close to home. We are very fortunate.”

Information: bonnergeneral.org/foundation