2012 Patrons Campaign

It’s time again for Ashland Community Hospital Foundation to launch its annual Patrons Campaign.

Each year, we partner with the leadership of Ashland Community Hospital to identify a project for our campaign. This year, we are requesting contributions to purchase new high definition (HD) endoscopy equipment for the hospital, including colonoscopes, gastroscopes and a monitor.

Colonoscopes and gastroscopes are long flexible tubes which are wrapped in fiber optic material. The material generates light and has a series of magnifying lenses and mirrors, like a microscope, to produce an image. The end of the scope is equipped with a video camera that transmits an image to the HD monitor, which allows the surgeon to view anatomy and perform procedures.

Recent studies have shown that HD scopes and processors provide physicians with a better view of the inside of the colon and upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This allows them to recognize conditions that could otherwise be missed with older technology. For example, the detection rate for pre-cancerous polyps is much higher using the new HD video equipment.

Identifying pre-cancerous growths at an early stage allows for prompt intervention and treatment that can prevent the growths from converting to cancer. Also, the ability to spot existing cancer earlier results in more timely treatment and higher survival rates.

The new scopes will allow our physicians to perform all types of minimally-invasive upper GI and colon procedures including; treatment for chronic heart burn, emergency treatment for internal bleeding, diagnosis of cancer, removal of foreign bodies, biopsies, stent placement and non-surgical removal of gall stones.

Ashland Community Hospital recently purchased a HD processor and can complete the upgrade of its endoscopy equipment with the purchase of the new scopes and monitor. With your support, we will raise the $155,000 needed for this project and provide a new option for diagnosis and treatment to our physicians and patients. Together, we can help save lives.

If you would like to make a contribution you can make a gift online, call 541-201-4015, or post mail a check to PO Box 98, Ashland, OR 97520