HMH Board of Directors makes approval to purchase new machine for the hospital

Tuesday, Howard Memorial Hospital Board of Directors held their regular monthly meeting. During the meeting, HMH Surgical Service Director Lindsay Hooper was there to request the approval of funds. Hooper stated that it has been approved in the Capital Budget, but they are needing a new Large Autoclave, which is a machine that sterilizes their surgery equipment. 

Hooper explained that the current model they have was installed in 2009 and that it has been refurbished when they purchased it, so it has served its purpose. She went on to say that the bad news is that they are unable to get anymore parts for the machine after this year. She said the machine would cost $101,000 dollars. After further discussion, the board approved a motion to purchase the Large Autoclave.

COO Stacy Harberson reported that UA Cossatot has a power project which is a grant through the Department of Labor in Strengthening Community Colleges. Harberson said that she was asked to be on the advisory council for nursing. She added that this grant helps nursing students and education with nursing. 

Harberson also mentioned to the board that she was awarded a scholarship for the 2024 American College of Healthcare Executive Program. Harberson stated that this program will consist of in person modules in Chicago, Houston, and Atlanta and she will be attending in all three cities. 

Board member Dr. Glen Lance suggested that the board cover travel expenses for Harberson. The board then approved a motion to cover Harberson’s travel expenses.