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Preston Memorial Project in Final 2008 Appropriations Measure
WASHINGTON – Congressman Alan B. Mollohan said that Preston Memorial Hospital’s plan to institute a new computerized program to improve hospital personnel’s access to patient information will move forward as a result of funding contained in the recently passed 2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act.
As a result of Congressman Mollohan’s work, Preston Memorial will receive $286,900 to purchase software and hardware that will enable hospital personnel to link, access, and query patient information data from any department within the hospital. Physicians and staff will be able to electronically place requests for medications, tests or therapies while screening for adverse effects and managing patient treatment.
Preston Memorial officials estimate that the new system will dramatically improve communication about patients and better coordinate information between clinicians and staff. As a result, patient safety and overall quality of care will be enhanced.
Mollohan said he worked to make sure funding for Preston Memorial was included in the 2008 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. When the President vetoed the measure, along with other spending bills, Congress combined 11 appropriations bills into one measure – the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Mollohan was successful in preserving the Preston Memorial funding in the ensuing legislative action and changed the scope of the project from emergency room improvements to the new computer system.
Preston Memorial Hospital is a state-licensed, 25-bed, acute care facility located in Kingwood, West Virginia. Preston Memorial is recognized statewide for its leadership in rural health care--including its Preston Birth Center, 24-hour emergency department, respiratory therapy, diagnostic imaging, home health, and physical therapy services.
Mollohan said residents from Kingwood to Bruceton Mills will benefit from the improvements that the funding will make possible.
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