Thanks to community generosity and a major contribution, the Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is thrilled to announce the 31st Annual Benefit exceeded expectations, raising a remarkable $193,586. Surpassing the initial $178,000 goal, these proceeds funded a new chemistry analyzer for the laboratory and will kickstart the next project for 2024-2025 membership.
The new chemistry analyzer has already significantly impacted Clara Barton Medical Center. This advanced tool is crucial for processing lab tests quickly and more accurately, which is essential for patient care across the entire facility. In 2023, their laboratory performed more than 321,000 tests, emphasizing the need for such reliable and efficient equipment.
Ensuring time-sensitive results are processed without delay, particularly in emergent situations, this analyzer has a STAT feature that prioritizes critical tests. Additionally, its ability to conduct in-house testing for tumor markers, which previously had to be outsourced, speeds up diagnosis and treatment planning.
While improving overall lab efficiency, the new equipment’s ability to handle smaller blood samples also benefits the most vulnerable patients, including pediatric and critically ill individuals.
With the additional $15,586 raised from the major contribution, the foundation is excited to shift focus to the next priority—replacing the hospital’s 23-year-old C-arm machine. This essential equipment is a cornerstone of the radiology and surgery departments, providing high-quality imaging during critical surgical and interventional procedures.
A new C-arm will enhance the surgeons’ ability to perform complex procedures with greater precision, directly improving patient outcomes. As medical technology advances, upgrading this equipment will ensure Clara Barton Medical Center continues to deliver the highest standard of care to our community.
This project holds special significance for the Hoisington community. Ike Walters, the hospital’s first administrator when it opened in the 1950s, helped Clara Barton grow in its early days. Back in 1990, Ike was instrumental in creating the foundation and spearheaded its first foundation membership drives, laying the groundwork for community-driven support that continues to this day.
As Ike once said, “Local people solve local problems best.” The foundation could not agree more and is proud to continue Ike’s vision as a community-driven healthcare facility. His legacy continues as his family owns and runs the Hoisington Dairy Queen, remaining known for its commitment to the community.
Embracing the same deep commitment and giving spirit as Ike, Hoisington Dairy Queen is partnering with the Clara Barton Foundation throughout November to support the C-Arm project. Order specific treats/food on the following days in November and a percentage of those sales will be donated to the foundation:
Mondays: Cones and Cheeseburgers (single) | Wednesdays: Chicken Strip Baskets | Fridays: Any Cookie-flavored Blizzards
“This is a perfect way for the community to come together, enjoy a meal or treat, and make a meaningful impact,” said Michelle Moshier, Clara Barton Foundation Director. “We would like to thank everyone who has already participated in this year’s membership drive. Becoming a foundation member gives you a voice in shaping our future and offers exclusive insights into our organization and local healthcare.”
Whether a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, your membership is a lasting investment in our community’s health. You can directly contribute to this upgrade, providing the essential tools surgeons need to perform complex procedures with greater precision while enhancing patient comfort and safety.
The Clara Barton Foundation offers several membership levels to suit your needs and circumstances. If you are interested in becoming a foundation member and helping with this project, please visit www.clarabartonhospital.com/donate or call the foundation office at 620-292-0814. Your involvement will help Clara Barton Medical Center maintain an ever-increasing quality of healthcare close to home.
*Don’t forget – throughout November, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays a portion of the sales from featured “C” menu items at Hoisington Dairy Queen will be donated to the Foundation’s C-arm project.*
