Claude W. Ahrens Charitable Trust Issues $25,000 Challenge Grant for GRMC Buy A Bed Campaign

Grinnell Regional Medical Center has received a $25,000 challenge grant from the Claude W. Ahrens Charitable Trust that will allow gifts made to the GRMC Buy a Bed campaign to be matched dollar for dollar. The challenge will apply to all gifts received starting August 1.

“New beds will enhance the patient experience by providing optimal healing with greater patient safety and quality during the hospital stay,” says Susan Witt, trustee of the Claude W. Ahrens Charitable Trust.

GRMC has set a goal to raise $253,000 to purchase 23 new patient beds. To date, $80,000 has already been raised toward the goal. Most of GRMC’s current beds were purchased and installed in 1992. New beds provide several benefits for patient comfort and safety for both patients and staff.

“Our current beds have served us very well,” says Doris Rindels, GRMC assistant vice president. “The bed is an important piece of hospital equipment. We know that when our patients are comfortable, they rest more easily and heal faster. Our nursing staff is excited about this campaign to buy new beds for our patients. We are grateful for the support of the Claude W. Ahrens Charitable Trust for this project.”

To make a gift or pledge for the GRMC Buy A Bed Campaign or the annual fund drive, go to the website at www.grmc.us and click the link “Make A Donation” or call Denise Lamphier at 641-236-2589. Donations also may be mailed to the Office of Communications and Development, GRMC, 210 Fourth Ave., Grinnell, IA, 50112.

GRMC Now Offers 3D Mammography

Women who undergo routine mammograms at Grinnell Regional Medical Center now have the latest screening and diagnostic technology available to them. GRMC is one of the first hospitals in Iowa to offer 3D breast tomosynthesis for breast cancer screening.

Breast tomosynthesis is a revolutionary technology that gives radiologists the ability to identify and characterize individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue.  During a tomosynthesis exam, multiple, low-dose images of the breast are acquired at different angles.  These images are then used to produce a series of one-millimeter thick slices that can be viewed as a 3D reconstruction of the breast.

The Hologic Dimensions system installed at GRMC offers exceptionally sharp breast images, an advanced ergonomic design providing more patient comfort, and a 3D tomosynthesis platform designed to deliver superior screening and diagnostic performance.

“By offering women the latest technology in mammography, GRMC hopes to increase the number of area women who will be routinely screened,” says Gina Fuller, GRMC director of radiology. “Early detection is the best defense. Patients who come to GRMC for a mammogram will notice little change from previous mammograms. The benefits will be improved accuracy, fewer callbacks, and peace of mind that you are taking the most progressive steps to take care of yourself.”

When patients arrive for their mammogram, a standard 2D exam will be performed. The 3D tomosynthesis will be offered to all patients. Insurance carriers typically cover the cost of a 2D digital mammogram. You can choose from a traditional digital mammogram or opt for a digital mammogram plus tomosynthesis (3D) for a nominal fee.

GRMC received new digital mammography equipment earlier in 2012 through a grant by a private foundation. GRMC was able to secure the tomosynthesis upgrade through a special program with Hologic. The only other institutions offering this technology are Broadlawns Medical Center, Iowa Radiology, and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in a research study mode.

“We had this great opportunity to establish GRMC ahead of most hospitals and clinics in Iowa,” Fuller says. “This leading edge technology will make a real difference in the lives of area residents.”

If you would like to schedule a mammogram or have questions about this important breast health exam, please contact your primary care provider or call the GRMC Radiology department at 641-236-2355.

Wonderful and Thoughtful Gifts for Little Ones

The Piecemaker Quilt Guild donated 25 crib-size quilts to the Stork’s Nest for distribution to expecting and new mothers.

The Stork’s Nest provides support for mothers in the area by offering educational programs, incentives for healthy behaviors, and a point system to earn baby merchandise, such as the baby quilts.

“Pauline Criswell is a regular donor of baby quilts to the Stork’s Nest. Recently, I’d mentioned how our Stork’s Nest mothers really enjoy the blankets and quilts that she donates and that we often run out,” says Amanda Bergman, Stork’s Nest Coordinator. “To our amazement, Pauline contacted the quilt guild and between Friday afternoon and their next meeting on Tuesday, they collected 25 quilts. This is just so exciting. This donation is so wonderful and thoughtful. The babies who receive these quilts are kept warm as well as enjoy a safe place to explore their environment when used during tummy time.”

The Piecemaker Quilt Guild meets on Tuesdays. For more information contact Pauline Criswell. The Stork’s Nest is a program administered through Grinnell Regional Public Health. For more information call Amanda Bergman at 641-236-2385. 

GRMC Auxiliary Provides $5,000 for Healthcare Scholarships

            The Grinnell Regional Auxiliary presented five local students with $1,000 scholarships to continue their education in a health-related field.  Five area women earned the scholarship through a competitive application process.  

            This year’s scholarship recipients are Alexandra Ferguson, Michelle Hobbs, Mikayla Morrison, Tilly Schmidt, and Abby VanDee. 

            The auxiliary raises funds in many ways throughout the year. Proceeds from The Glass Gift Box at Grinnell Regional Medical Center fund many programs, patient services, and scholarships. Additional events such as Tag Day, book and jewelry fairs, the Angel Tree during the holidays, and the Kids Zone at Grinnell Chamber’s Friday Fest, all help to support Grinnell Regional Auxiliary and GRMC.

            Since 1968, the Grinnell Regional Auxiliary has worked to promote and assist GRMC in providing healthcare services to the area. Grinnell Regional Auxiliary has the distinction of being one of the oldest continuing hospital volunteer organizations in Iowa.

            To learn more about the scholarship program, becoming a member, or about Grinnell Regional Auxiliary, contact Kerri Olson, volunteer coordinator, 641-236-2588.