Newton Medical Center (NMC) is holding a donation drive for durable medical equipment (DME) on Saturday, April 22, from 9 a.m. to noon.
The donation drive will jump start NMC’s new DME Closet, which will provide gently used medical equipment to NMC patients. The closet, a first of its kind for the hospital, will offer convenience and optimize safety for those without means to obtain recommended equipment.
“We want to ensure the best care for our patients, even after they leave the hospital,” said Brad Yazell, director of therapy services. “The DME Closet is just one way NMC is able to do that.”
“Our patients often have no family, funds or means of transportation to get the needed equipment,” said Megan Lowe, occupational therapist assistant and project lead for the DME Closet. “Many will go without despite recommendations and ultimately increase their risk of readmission.”
The following gently used equipment will be accepted: wheelchairs (no rips or tears in seat materials); walkers (front wheeled, three or four wheeled, standard and hemi); canes (single point and quad); bathroom equipment (shower chairs, tub benches, grab bars, tub and toilet rails, toilet frames and bedside commodes). Equipment may be dropped off at the front entrance of the hospital, 600 Medical Center Drive.
During the morning, participants can enjoy free coffee and donuts, courtesy of Starbucks® and Hurts Donut.
NMC will continue to accept DME donations after the drive. For additional information or to schedule a future donation, call 316-836-4253.
About Newton Medical Center
Newton Medical Center is a 103-bed hospital in Newton, Kan., providing comprehensive medical care to those in Harvey and surrounding counties. Services and specialties include emergency medicine, surgical services, occupational medicine, home health and more. The hospital, which also includes 12 primary care and specialty clinics, is conveniently located at the intersection of I-135 and Highway 50. For more information, call 316-283-2700 or visit www.newtonmed.com.
