The $3.2 million in grants from the Leona M and Harry B Helmsley Charitable Trust for the LBJ Tropical Medical Center and the Department of Health, is just the first of other assistance to come in the future.
This was made clear by Walter Panzirer, a Trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust at a press conference yesterday where the grants were announced.
He said their aim is to help give rural residents equal access to health care received by those in urban areas.
Mr Panzirer said he first learned about the health care challenges in the territory a year ago and came on an explanatory visit.
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The grants from the Helmsley Charitable Trust will provide an MRI machine, portable X-Ray capabilities and portable ultra sound equipment for the LBJ Tropical Medical Center and Department of Health community health centers.
Panzirer said they are not just going to write a check and walk away. The Helmsley Charitable Trust is here for the long haul.
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A resident, Solomona Moana described the challenge and hardship he faced when he had to travel off island for an MRI check, the expense of the travel and fees associated with his treatment, even though the VA covered for the costs.
He said having an MRI here would be a life saver for residents who can’t afford the costs of travel and health care off island.
