Where do ultrasound machines go when their time is up in private practice, but they are still viable and can be put to good use?
Unlike single socks and Tupperware lids, they can have a wonderfully useful and rewarding second life, which is exactly what the SCP Radiology ultrasound machine has after its recent retirement!
On Thursday 4 April, the radiology practice donated an ultrasound machine and examination bed to the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) Helderberg, an NPO that rehabilitates and rehomes animals.
The machine will be used to image and visually assess undiagnosed lumps and possible bowel-related obstructions in their furry patients.
“I cannot begin to express my gratitude to all involved in the donation,” said AWS general manager Julia Evans. “Unfortunately, the rule of thumb for us over the years has been guesswork. This donation makes it much easier, and in every sense of the word.”
The machine, which functions well and is still viable for basic ultrasound examinations, was serviced and delivered to AWS in Gordon’s Bay by Techmed Cape Town early last month.
“Ever-improving technology meant that the ultrasound machine we donated had made way for new state-of-the-art technology capable of better-quality imaging,” explained Dr Jaco du Plessis, a radiologist and partner at SCP Radiology.
“After receiving a request from AWS Helderberg, we felt it was a good fit and would be of huge benefit to them. However, we have also donated to the public healthcare sector, with Tygerberg Hospital’s dermatology department being a recent recipient of a machine.”
