Canberra, ACT – 18 July, 2024
Wednesday 17 July marked a significant milestone for the Canberra community as the cutting-edge Robotics Rehabilitation Program, a joint venture between Canberra Hospital Foundation (CHF), Canberra Health Services and the University of Canberra, officially launched. Funded in part by CHF donors, this innovative program is set to transform rehabilitation services, offering advanced and effective treatments to patients with neurological and physical impairments.
The media event, held at the University of Canberra Hospital, was attended by Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith (Minister for Health), Professor Bernie Bissett (Professor of Allied Health Research, University of Canberra) and key representatives from CHF, including Chair of the Board, Susan Proctor, and CEO, Helen Falla. Representatives from Canberra Health Services, along with CHF’s valued donors and partners, including representatives from GIO and a Family Trust, who have played a crucial role in bringing this program to life, also attended.
The Robotics Rehabilitation Program is designed to enhance the recovery process for patients by integrating advanced robotic technologies. These technologies allow healthcare teams to provide more precise, consistent, and effective therapy, significantly improving patient outcomes. The use of robotics in rehabilitation represents a significant advancement in healthcare, offering hope and improved quality of life to many in the community.
The ACT Government supported the purchase of the lower limb robotics rehabilitation suite, the Lokomat, which assists patients with essential walking functions. Complementing this, through the generosity of our donors, CHF is proud to have raised sufficient funding for the upper limb robotics rehabilitation suite, the Armeo Spring and the Armeo Power, designed for patient arm and hand therapy. In total, CHF’s charitable donors, partners, and supporters have contributed an impressive $346,500 toward this initiative.
“It’s exciting to see this collaboration pioneering new technologies and being at the forefront of new research. Not only will this help us provide the best rehabilitation treatment options possible for our patients, but we will also be an example to others who follow and can benefit from our research. As such, this is a very important partnership for us with the University of Canberra and Canberra Hospital Foundation.” Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith told event attendees.
Susan Proctor, Chair of the Board for CHF, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all donors and partners, highlighting the significant impact of their contributions. CHF's valued partner, GIO, was recognised as being instrumental in supporting various vital projects since 2016 with the latest addition being their contribution to the upper limb robotics rehabilitation suite. Special thanks were shared with members of the Family Trust, whose support has been essential in making this program a reality. Further, Susan acknowledged the generosity of the community who have donated through various events and campaigns, in particular those who supported CAN GIVE DAY 2023. The funds raised through these initiatives and generous donors have been crucial in contributing to the project.
The Canberra Hospital Foundation is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance patient care and health outcomes. The Robotics Rehabilitation Program is a fantastic example of how innovative solutions and community support can lead to supporting substantial progress in healthcare services.
"On behalf of CHF, I would like to express our gratitude to everyone involved. Your contributions have been instrumental in making this program a reality, and we are deeply thankful for your support," said Susan Proctor. "Your support of the Robotics Rehabilitation Program is a beautiful example of how we can achieve great things when we come together as a community."
The launch event included a demonstration of the robotic technologies in action, showcasing the remarkable capabilities of the new rehabilitation equipment. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with the dedicated healthcare professionals who will be using this technology to enhance patient care.
