Patients at Mareeba Hospital are enjoying a more comfortable, connected and calming hospital experience with the installation of 50 smart televisions across all inpatient beds.
The new TVs funded through donations and grants to Mareeba Friends of the Foundation (a subsidiary of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation), ensure every patient has access to free to air television and radio.
Mareeba Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery and Facility Manager Michelle Bombardieri said the upgrade has delivered immediate benefits for both patients and staff.
“These TVs provide positive distraction through watching TV, listening to music or movies, which helps reduce pain, discomfort and anxiety,” Ms Bombardieri said.
“Patients feel more relaxed and comfortable, and for those who stay in hospital for extended periods, having access to television makes the environment feel more homely and less isolating.”
She said patients valued having greater control over their surroundings, while nursing staff had noticed improvements in overall patient wellbeing because of the donation. All televisions are fully integrated with the patient nurse call system, allowing patients to control volume, channels and sound directly through their bedside handsets.
The project was delivered at a total cost of $91,805, funded through a $36,805 Bendigo Bank Community Grant, $13,700 from FNQ Growers, and $41,300 from general funds, including bingo proceeds and memorial donations made in honour of Kevin Davies, Robyn Boundy, Dennis Howe and Boris Stankovich.
Mareeba Friends of the Foundation President Tom Braes said the project showed how community fundraising directly improves patient care.
“This is exactly why the Mareeba Friends of the Foundation work so hard to raise funds,” Mr Braes said. “Simple things like access to television can significantly improve a patient’s comfort, reduce anxiety and help them stay connected while they’re in hospital. It’s wonderful to see the community’s support making such a practical difference close to home.”
Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said access to television played an important role in supporting patient recovery and wellbeing.
“Staying connected to local news, world events and familiar entertainment helps patients cope with the stress of being in hospital and supports rest and recovery,” Mrs Hogan said.
“This project shows how donor support can transform the patient experience and help people feel more informed, comfortable and connected during their hospital stay.”
Photo: Front, patient Des Williams, Foundation CEO Gina Hogan, Ben Bolen, Desley Bolen, June Davies, Bradley Davies, Bendigo Bank’s Mareeba & Dimbulah Community Grants Program chair Rhonda Stevens, Mareeba FOF representatives Glenys Pilat, Eve-Lyn McGrath, Mareeba Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery and Facility Manager Michelle Bombardieri, Deanna Acha, Patti Crothers and Gladys France.
