Stawell Auxiliary donates eye surgery sets

Eye surgery patients at Stawell are being treated with brand new instruments thanks to a generous donation from Stawell Hospital Auxiliary.

Grampians Health have used the $12,500 donation to purchase four new cataract surgery instrument sets. The new sets will support the busy eye surgery program at Stawell, where an average of 16 patients undergo cataract procedures on each ophthalmology surgical list.

The sets are sterilised and maintained by the Central Sterile Services Department, led by Stephanie Rathgeber, who said the additional instruments would help streamline operations, align with best practice, reduce delays between procedures and improve our patient experience.

“With more sets available, we can better manage turnaround times and maintain a smooth workflow between patients,” Ms Rathgeber said.

Grampians Health Stawell’s Nurse Unit Manager of Perioperative Services, Sally Hamilton thanked the Auxiliary for its generous support.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the Auxiliary’s donation,” Ms Hamilton said.

“It’s fantastic to have the backing of such a dedicated group, helping us provide the best care possible for our patients.”

Stawell Hospital Auxiliary president Pam Byron said the group was proud to contribute to a service that made a real difference locally.

“Supporting equipment that helps people stay close to home for surgery—and ensures they receive care in a comfortable, familiar setting—is what the Auxiliary is all about,” Ms Byron said.

If you would like to make a difference to healthcare in your community, call Pam on 0428 598 272 to discuss joining the Auxiliary.