Broughshane Medical Practice nursing staff Alison Patterson and Linda Cameron gratefully take delivery of a new ECG machine in the Treatment Room.  The purchase was made possible by a generous donation to the Practice Voluntary Group, represented by Mr William McKean, Treasurer.  Pictured also are Dr Michael Redmond and Julie McClure, Practice Manager.

The new machine replaces an older model and includes enhanced software which enables the tracing to be saved directly in the patient’s record.  A reliable ECG machine is an essential piece of equipment in the Medical Practice.  An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple test to check your heart’s rhythm and for signs of heart disease.  This allows decisions on the best course of treatment for the patient.
The Practice are indebted to the support of their Voluntary Group which was formed in 1985 by Mrs Isobel McAllister, during the tenure of, now retired former GPs, Drs Tony Redmond and Barbara Mercer.  The aim of the Group is to assist the Practice with the purchase of equipment for the benefit of its patients.  The very first piece of equipment purchased was a (heart) defibrillator.  On average approximately £2,500 is donated to the Practice each year for the purchase of medical equipment, having amounted to a staggering £75,000 since its inception.
Funds are primarily generated from donations provided by patients, family and friends of the Practice.  Fundraising activities over the years have included variety concerts, Christmas draws and fireside quizzes.
Mrs McAllister and her committee would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank everyone who has supported and continues to support the fund.

Impact AgeWell

Are you aged 65 years and over?
Do you live alone or with another older person in your own home or in sheltered housing?
Would you like to know more about support and services available within your local community?
Have you been diagnosed with two or more of the following conditions?
•	Diabetes
•	Respiratory 
•	Heart Failure
•	Coronary Heart Disease
•	Stroke
•	Hypertension
•	Parkinson's
•	Osteoporosis
If these apply to you, you may be eligible for a new service we provide at the Practice called IMPACTAgewell.  It is a programme which is designed to support you to improve your health and wellbeing.  A dedicated IMPACTAgewell Project Officer will talk with you about your general health and wellbeing and support you to look at taking small steps that would empower you to age well now and in the future.  
If you are interested please contact the Practice staff on: 028 2586 1214 for further information.