A brand new, state-of-the-art X-Ray machine has been installed at the Ambergris Hope Clinic. The sophisticated piece of equipment will not only serve the general public at the clinic, but it will also assist the Hyperbaric Chamber located onsite.
Abner Bacab, manager of the Hyperbaric Chamber at the clinic, welcomes the addition to their medical facility. “Having an X-Ray machine will definitely enhance the services offered at the clinic. For any severe injuries that may require x-ray examinations before they can be treated, they can now be done here in San Pedro at our facilities,” said Bacab.
He further explained that the addition of the equipment is also very efficient in diagnosing internal problems during diving illnesses. “If a diver comes to the clinic suspecting a dive related illness, he would not immediately be taken into the hyperbaric chamber to receive the decompression treatment. An x-ray of the person’s chest would be taken in order to confirm that his/her lungs are in proper shape or if the patient is suffering of any other lung disease. If someone is placed inside the chamber, and their lungs are not functioning well, fatality is possible. So the addition of the X-Ray machine at our facility means our service is guaranteed safer and more efficient,” indicated Bacab.
With the incorporation of such an advanced machine to the clinic, a well -trained technician has also come on board to oversee and operate it. Registered nurse Lisette Graniel explained to The San Pedro Sun the uses and flexibilities of the medical tool. “The machine is fast and can give accurate reading results on broken bones and detecting any abnormalities within the body after an injury. It is also very efficient in the detection of kidney stones, complications in the bladder, lungs and other parts of the body. It is a modern machine which adapts to any posture the patient may need to be in order for the examination to take place and provide the right results. We are happy with this addition to our clinic and even happier to be able to continue providing high standard services to the San Pedro community.” Graniel also indicated that due to the speed of the machine, the exposure to radiation is very minimal. Pictures are taken in less than ten seconds and the film is developed in about 90 seconds.
The services of the X-Ray machine are also available after working hours for emergency cases. It was mentioned that the other medical facilities on the island can also benefit from its services at any time during an emergency.
In an effort to continue providing the best of service to island residents, the Ambergris Hope Clinic is envisioning to expand its facilities in the future. The first step in that vision was the introduction of the X-Ray which has uplifted the quality of their services.
The Ambergris Hope Clinic is located on Pescador drive and its normal opening hours are now from 8AM to 9PM Monday through Friday. On Saturdays they open only in the mornings and on Sundays the clinic is closed, however they are always available for emergencies. For emergencies after hours, contact them at 226-2660.
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