Equipment funded locally aids in testing thousands.

Thanks to donations collected through Salisbury Hospital's Stars Appeal, a new lung function device is significantly improving care for patients in the region. This advanced machine allows residents to receive diagnostic testing locally, eliminating the need to travel to Southampton or Bournemouth.

The 74,000 device supports patients with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cancer, and heart disease by accurately measuring lung performance.

"I need regular tests for my lung condition, so being able to do them close to home makes a huge difference," said Kirsty Dudin from Stratford-sub-Castle, Wiltshire.

Approximately 2,000 patients use the hospital's respiratory services annually, with around 3,500 tests conducted each year. Ms. Dudin, 76, noted that scheduling regular appointments is now much simpler and praised the care she receives. "I feel very well looked after and grateful for the generosity of our local community," she added.

Punam Korat, the hospital's lead respiratory and sleep physiologist, explained: "Without the support of the Stars Appeal, we wouldnt be able to offer these crucial tests, and patients would have had to travel elsewhere. Now, we can see patients more quickly and even perform specialized muscle function assessments that were previously unavailable."

The Stars Appeal works to raise 2 million annually, funding cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment equipment, facility improvements, and ongoing initiatives including cancer support and a dedicated play assistant for the Childrens Unit.

Author's Comment: Local Support Translates to Tangible Patient Benefits

The recent introduction of the £74,000 lung function device at Salisbury Hospital highlights the direct impact of community donations through the Stars Appeal. Patients with conditions like COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cancer, and heart disease now benefit from precise diagnostic testing without the need to travel to Southampton or Bournemouth.

Approximately 2,000 patients use the hospital's respiratory services each year, with around 3,500 tests conducted. The device also allows for specialized muscle function assessments that were previously unavailable, improving both speed and quality of care.

As patients like Kirsty Dudin emphasize, having testing close to home significantly simplifies ongoing treatment and follow-up. The Stars Appeal's continued support ensures that Salisbury Hospital can maintain high standards of patient care while expanding access to advanced diagnostics locally.

Sources:

• Locally funded equipment helps thousands get tested