April 19, 2016

On April 6, 2016, the Bhutan Foundation celebrated its Annual Board Dinner in Thimphu, Bhutan, hosted by our Co-chair, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck. During this special occasion, to honor the birth of His Royal Highness the Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, Her Majesty and Mrs. Daphne Hoch Cunningham, Board Member of the Bhutan Foundation, presented medical equipment to the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Maternal and Child Clinic. The gift was supported by the Hoch family.

The medical equipment donated to the clinic included a Doppler ultrasonogram, a photometer for hemoglobin estimation, and a transcutaneous bilirubinometer. The ultrasound unit uses no radiation for antenatal and postnatal patients, providing better resolution and reliability, as well as improved speed of exams and workflow to enhance the efficiency of services delivered to mothers. In addition, the photometer will help with early identification of anemic (iron-deficient) mothers, providing an opportunity to treat them and prevent progression of the condition. The bilirubinometer aids preventive, screening, and timely management of serum bilirubin in newborns to avoid and cure neonatal jaundice.

These medical devices were provided after carrying out a needs assessment by the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital for the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Maternal and Child Clinic.