PEMBROKE – The Pembroke Regional Hospital Auxiliary has made a substantial investment in the hospital’s TV rental program in order to ensure that every patient room has a TV.
The Auxiliary’s recent $37,000 investment coincides with the retirement of long-time Auxiliary contractor Steve Ulicska who managed the TV rental program on their behalf.
Until now, only a limited number of TVs were available and had to be moved from room to room when an order was placed.
“It was very important that we continue to maintain this important in-house service which not only enhances the patient experience but also generates significant revenue which we donate to the hospital for equipment replacement and other fundraising projects,” said Auxiliary President Diana Gagne.
Going forward, the Auxiliary will sell TV vouchers in the Sunshine Gift Shop at a cost of $10 per day including tax. Vouchers can be paid for by cash, debit, credit card or PRH gift card. Family members can also purchase the service for loved ones by telephone, and the finance office will offer discounted rates for long-term use over 30 days.
These vouchers are then taken to the nursing station on the patient’s unit where they are collected by housekeeping staff who activate and deactivate the TV services. In terms of timing for activation, any voucher turned in before 3 p.m. each day will be activated the same day, while those submitted after 3 p.m. will be activated at 7 a.m. the next morning.
Patients are also provided with a TV guide and headphones at the time of purchase.
Hospital President and CEO Pierre Noel said it is hoped that the improved process and service the Auxiliary is providing will continue to be a welcome benefit to patients who require a hospital stay.
The Sunshine Gift Shop is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m., and weekends from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m.
