The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the importance of arming frontline medical heroes with advanced respiratory equipment.
Thanks to TB Vets donors, rural communities like Whistler now have immediate access to a much-needed transport ventilator.
The acquisition of the equipment was made possible by donors’ support of TB Vets’ 7 for 7 Campaign. The campaign was the very first initiative launched by TB Vets at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the goal of raising funds for 7 more ventilators to 7 BC Hospitals that year.
A long-time need
Even outside of exceptional times, Whistler Health Care Centre had a great need for the Hamilton T-1 ventilator– it was originally meant to replace an outdated model with parts that were no longer available.
In addition, the new equipment’s compact design will provide maximum ease onsite and for transport, which is important when transferring critically ill patients to a higher level of care in Vancouver.
Not counting critical COVID-19 cases, the TB Vets-funded ventilator is estimated to be used 20 to 35 times a year for the most acutely ill or injured patients. The hospital supports a community of 13,000 residents, 3,400 seasonal employees and three million visitors of all ages who come to Whistler for recreation.
A close-up of the life-saving transport ventilator funded by TB Vets. On the right is Dr. Fern von der Porten, Medical Director of Whistler Health Care Centre
Whistler Health Care Centre supports a community of 13,000 residents, 3,400 seasonal employees and three million visitors of all ages who come to Whistler for recreation.
In a rural setting with few resources and personnel, the ability to provide BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure), which is a non-invasive form of ventilation, is truly essential in the community.
Not counting critical COVID-19 cases, the TB Vets- funded ventilator is estimated to be used 20 to 35 times a year for the most acutely ill or injured patients in the region.*
