“From today until 14 June, anyone who borrowed equipment and has forgotten to return it – no matter how long ago – is asked to give it back, no questions asked,” said contracts manager Kenny McCaul (pictured).
“Anyone who still needs a borrowed item that has passed its return date can call the service they borrowed it from and arrange an extension.”
The DHB currently has more than $300,000 worth of equipment – around 5700 items – in use, or overdue, in the community. Items include wheelchairs, walking frames, shower stalls, toileting equipment, air mattresses, pumps, hospital beds, and more.
“People sometimes simply don’t get around to returning equipment, or they put it away and forget – but this means another patient in need may miss out, or face delays in being able to leave the hospital and go home.”
While the DHB does not have a shortage of medical equipment to lend, unreturned items need to be replaced – using funds that would be better spent on newer equipment and technologies.
“We ask people to return equipment once their doctor or medical team says it’s not needed. If anyone knows of any equipment that’s simply sitting unused and unneeded in their home or garage, please return it to one of our campuses – or get in touch with us and we’ll have it picked up.”
To arrange for equipment to be picked up, call (04) 918 6334. Equipment can be returned to:
- Wellington Regional Hospital – Riddiford St, Newtown
- Kenepuru Community Hospital – Raiha St, Porirua
- Kapiti Health Centre – Warrimoo St, Paraparaumu
- Newlands Medical Centre – 15 Batchelor St, Newlands
- Johnsonville Medical Centre – 24 Moorefield Rd, Johnsonville
- Island Bay Medical Centre – 159 The Parade, Island Bay
- Miramar Medical Centre – 46 Park Rd, Miramar
- Karori Medical Centre – 11 Parkvale Rd, Karori
Media contact: Chas Te Runa – 027 230 9571
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