Vevchani Health Center gets first keratorefractometer and new diagnostic equipment

The Health Center "Dr. Svetozar Čočoroski" in Vevchani has received a series of new medical devices and undergone infrastructure works that the institution says will expand diagnostic capacity and improve everyday care for residents across several neighbouring villages.

For the first time the ophthalmology clinic was equipped with an automatic keratorefractometer — a computerised device for fast, automatic and precise vision testing and measurement of the eye’s geometry. The unit also received a 90-diopter loupe intended for diagnosing corneal diseases and assessing the optic nerve.

"This is yet another confirmation that we are raising the quality of ophthalmological care for the eye health of our patients. Precise diagnostics, quick examinations, healthier eyes — that is our concern for every patient. We continue to modernize equipment to provide higher-quality healthcare services for our fellow citizens," said Renata Peshinoska, director of the Health Center.

The centre provides emergency medical services for Vevchani and the surrounding settlements, including Labuništa, Podgorci, Oktisi and Veleshta, covering roughly 25,000 inhabitants with six regular emergency teams. In addition to the ophthalmology purchases, the Health Center received a dermatoscope, electrocautery, cryospray and other instruments for a new dermatology unit, as well as ECG devices and a defibrillator.

Expanded diagnostic services and laboratory upgrades

Staff report the introduction of echo-Doppler examinations of carotid and peripheral arteries and veins, and ultrasound imaging of hip joints for infants up to one year old. A monitor for vital signs has been supplied and the centre says a public procurement procedure is underway for a cardiology ultrasound machine.

Donations supplemented state deliveries: two ultrasound devices for the X-ray service, a computer radiography system for digitising X-ray images, a centrifuge and a five-part differential blood counter with CRP for the laboratory, and oxygen concentrators.

Peshinoska also highlighted the arrival of new ECG machines: "We have provided new ECG machines for the Vevchani Health Center. Around 150 patients a week require this service. This improves the ability for timely and accurate diagnosis of heart function, enabling higher-quality healthcare for our patients," she said.

Alongside equipment purchases, the facility completed a full renovation of the central heating system to raise efficiency, stability and safety. Project documentation is being prepared for an upgrade and interior renovation of the attic and roof. The centre currently employs seven specialists in areas such as pediatrics, pulmonology and allergy, internal medicine, cardiology, emergency medicine, gastroenterology and occupational medicine, and it adds on-call teams when needed. Triage of patients is carried out according to urgency and the assessment of emergency teams, regardless of which settlement the ambulance comes from.

Photo: SDK.MK)