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Endoscope: $130,000
An endoscope is a flexible tube containing fiber optic cables, attached to a light and
camera. Endoscopes are used in minimally invasive gastrointestinal studies; one of the most commonly known is the
colonoscopy.
An endoscope can identify hiatal hernias, gastritis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. “It can take biopsies of abnormalities such as polyps and help us diagnose cancers at an early stage when survival rates are high,” states Dr. Deborah Aaron, surgeon.
At KGH, five physicians perform a total of 750 such procedures each year.
Therapy Equipment:
$45,000
 In 2007 the hospital opened its spacious and inviting new Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Clinic, with street level access and parking, next to the emergency entrance. The Gift of Healing 2008 campaign will provide new state of the art equipment for this
clinic.
• Low-impact treadmill
• Four Cybex exercise machines
• Traction table
• Stationary bicycle
• Balance trainer biofeedback system
“These new pieces will allow our exceptionally
qualified therapists to provide the ultimate value in treatment and exercise options for our customers,” said Joanna
DeSanto, therapy manager. About 150 patients come in for outpatient therapy each week, or 7200 per year.
“We want patients to have the option of staying in Ketchikan for their therapy, close to home, and cared for by familiar faces. This brings the least possible disruption to their lives,” said Bill
Elberson, long distance runner, Foundation Board Member, and campaign co-chair.
 A patient reaching her goals
“I am very grateful for both the quality of care and the great attitudes of my orthopedic surgeon Dr. Bruce Schwartz, the nurses, and our therapists. The exceptional care I have received inspires me to do what I need to do on my own to continue my progress toward my rehabilitation goals,” stated Rebecca Valentine, KGH therapy patient. When things get tough, George Wright, outpatient physical therapist, reminds Rebecca of the tremendous progress she has already made. “I especially want the community to know that they do not need to go outside of Ketchikan for their hip replacement surgery and therapy,” Rebecca stated. “We’ve got a gem right here in our own backyard.”
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