The Friends of Okehampton Hospital have been raising funds to purchase a ?near patient blood analyser? for use at the hospital. The machine enables an instant test on a sample of patient?s blood, helping clinicians to assess his or her overall condition. A more comprehensive set of results are always obtained from the pathology department at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as well. But recent developments in the way in which blood test results are now quickly received at Okehampton means it is no longer needed. Friends Chairman, Martin Perry said: ?The money raised for a blood analyser can now be used more beneficially to purchase other hospital items and equipment. ?The Friends would like to thank everyone who has helped to raise the money. ?We would like to reassure people that the money will be put to good use for the people of Okehampton. ?We are delighted that our recent purchase of foetal dopplers are being put to good use as the maternity unit expands to full 24-hour coverage. ?As medical science develops it seems the Friends have to run to keep up ? we are not here to simply subsidise the Health Service, although at times it does feel like that. ?Our policy is to provide additional facilities and equipment for patients that will make their stay at Okehampton Hospital more comfortable.?
