The generosity of Mater supporters across Queensland will help transform healthcare for patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.
More than $1.2 million of cutting-edge medical equipment is being delivered to the hospital this year, thanks to community donations to Mater Foundation.
The equipment includes a state-of-the-art radiography system to improve care and outcomes for breast cancer patients.
Mater Private Hospital Mackay Breast Surgeon Dr Wendela Schimmer said the equipment was a game-changer for clinicians and patients.
“The Faxitron reduces the risk of patients needing to be readmitted for further surgeries, as we can easily scan and identify if enough margin from around breast cancers has been removed mid-procedure,” she said.
“The machine also then has the potential to make theatre lists smoother as those breast surgeries can be faster without the need for that tissue to be sent away for radiography, so has a benefit for both the patients and clinicians.”
On Wednesday June 26 the hospital will be asking the Mackay and Whitsundays community to show their support again on Mater Giving Day – when all donations to Mater Foundation will be tripled by matched donors.
Mater Foundation’s next fundraising priority for Mackay will be an incubator to support sick babies while allowing access to care and comfort from parents and clinicians.
Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said equipment and services funded by community donations would make a major difference to healthcare in North Queensland.
“Medical technology is constantly evolving and it’s so important for our patients that we can bring that technology into our operating theatres and wards,” Ms Wade said.
“Our doctors and medical teams play a key role in choosing which devices and systems are purchased to ensure every dollar donated delivers the maximum benefit for our patients.
“Whether it’s delivering life-saving surgery for breast cancer patients or life-changing hip and knee replacements for those with mobility problems, this technology will make a positive impact on the health of our community.”
Mater is Queensland’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, managing a network of 11 public and private hospitals across the state.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said the new equipment at Mater Private Hospital Mackay was a great example of community fundraising leading to improved patient care for the community.
“Mater Giving Day – Wednesday 26 June – is the day the community can give to make good things happen,” Mr Thomas said.
“This special day unites Mater staff, patients, loved ones and supporters with gratitude to help deliver life-saving medical equipment, research, education and healthcare.
“After Giving Day 2024, we’re hoping we can provide a new incubator for Mater Mothers’ Private Mackay to support premature babies in their most vulnerable moments.
“The great news this year is that Mater’s generous matching partners have pledged to triple every single dollar raised by the community in Mackay, the Whitsundays and across Queensland – so the impact of community fundraising will make a truly incredible difference to Mater patients.”
Donations can be made online at www.mater.org.au/givingday up until midnight June 26
