Wheelchair Accessible Scale at Hall Health Center

Our proposal is the purchase of a weight scale which would enable us to more safely and effectively measure weights of patients who are wheelchair bound, have any leg weakness or any injury that prevents them from safely or efficiently using a traditional scale. Currently our capabilities of doing so are limited and it has long been a desire to have this equipment in our building. The addition of this equipment would be incredibly valuable to patient care. 

There are three scenarios in which this scale would directly benefit patients. The first is any patient who is wheelchair bound, would no longer be required to lift themselves out of their seat to have their weight measured. They would simply be able to roll their wheelchair onto the scale, and we would subtract the weight of the chair. We also see some elderly patients, for which balancing upon and stepping onto traditional scales can be difficult, if not hazardous. And third, any patient with an injury or condition preventing the use of a traditional scale would have a much easier time utilizing a wheelchair accessible scale. 

Weight is one of the key metrics we assess for patient health. It is important for the health and wellbeing of all our patients that we be able to check their weight when they come in, with certain exceptions. If we are unable to safely and accurately take the weight of a patient, without great inconvenience to them, this could be viewed as a disservice to our patient. The impetus for the grant was due to nursing staff expressing difficulty in measuring patients without this kind of scale. 

Sustainable Development Goals

This goal does not exclusively benefit staff and patients at Hall Health, but also three of the 17 goals connected to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Specifically goal numbers 10, Reducing Inequalities and supporting the marginalized and disadvantaged, 16, standing up for human rights, peace, justice and strong institutions, and 3, good health and wellbeing. 

Goal number three has the clearest connection to our cause. Proactively seeking means to more conveniently, safely and accurately measure our patients can have direct and positive impacts on their health and their experience in our healthcare facility. The more convenience we provide to our patients in routine weight measuring will have a great humanizing effect on their care, and improve the quality of care overall. 

Goal ten asks us to reduce inequalities, and this is an excellent way to help reduce inequalities within our own campus. Those with disabilities and injuries face unequal access to many aspects of everyday life. Simple tasks we take for granted such as finding and using a restroom, getting on a bus, navigating doorways and accessing buildings can be far more difficult for them. Every step we take to decrease difficulty of access for these patients is a win in reducing the inequalities they experience. 

Goal sixteen has a broad scope, but it is certainly applicable to our cause. Goal 16 concerns the promotion of just, peaceful and inclusive societies. Peace, justice and strong institutions can seem such large issues to conquer, but we can start small with achievable, measurable steps. Steps that will make a difference in the lives of real people who work and study on our campus. This is an institution stepping forward to make progress before change is demanded by those who have been the victims of wrongdoing or ineptitude. 

For this grant, we would ask for the full value available of $3,000. The wheelchair accessible scales available vary widely in cost. Some are as cheap as $500, some are almost $10,000. We are seeking a durable, reliable and accurate scale of medical grade construction. We would like to purchase the highest quality one possible to avoid issues such as the scale breaking or wearing out due to premature wear and tear. We also need to have the most accurate scale financially possible, with the greatest amount of weight capacity, should we have patients in electric wheelchairs, which are generally far heavier than traditional ones. 

We thank you for your consideration of our cause here at Hall Health Center. If chosen, these funds would make appreciable and tangible differences in the quality of care our patients receive. This would positively affect people we see daily on campus, and the goal is achievable. Thank you. We have needed this equipment for years and it has never fit into the Hall Health Budget. We are already having to furlough multi le staff to make budget. There are no additional funds coming from any source to help  us attain this equipment. Without the funds, we have to go without.