Roundup Record Tribune & Winnett Times -

USDA Rural Development (RD) has awarded Roundup Memorial Healthcare $21,100 for the final funds needed for the lab equipment replacement project. The lab equipment being replaced is the Hematology System and the Coagulation Unit. During these unprecedented times of virus detection, up-to-date lab equipment is more vitally needed than ever. The current hematology system is 8 years old, and 7 years is the standard life of this equipment. The new system would enable a 6-part differential, which is critical and an industry standard to provide best practice care. Six-part differential capability is important for early detection of abnormal cells. This capability electronically flags abnormal cells alerting technicians and triggering a review by a pathologist. Earlier detection results in the development of more timely and effective treatment plans and better health outcomes for our patients. Funds are also needed to acquire a new coagulation unit to replace the existing one that is over 20 years old, obsolete, and has extremely restricted repair options.

“Both analyzers are manufactured by Sysmex Corporation. Sysmex is recognized worldwide for quality laboratory analyzers. It provides clinical laboratory products in more than 190 countries,” said Camille Feiock, RMH Laboratory Manager. “The addition of the new hematology and coagulation analyzers will allow improved and expanded testing capacity resulting in better patient care.”

With these final funds, the new equipment will be in place by early fall. Thank you, USDA RD, for enabling this project for Roundup Memorial Healthcare and our community! We are also grateful to the Signal Peak Community Foundation and the Montana Health Network for their contributions to the project. Without these partners, the upgrades would be impossible.