ConocoPhillips helps deliver 99 babies with $50,000 donation
M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
Seems like there’s been a stork convention in Watford City! Last year, a whopping 99 babies were born at McKenzie Health, a jump from 66 the year before. And a big part of this baby boom and improved women’s health services is thanks to a generous helping hand from ConocoPhillips. Lynn Welker-Fevold, President of the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health, provided details on this growth and how ConocoPhillips’ generosity has helped meet women’s healthcare needs in a recent press release to The Farmer.
Back in 2024, ConocoPhillips donated $50,000 to the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health to purchase a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine. This isn’t just any old ultrasound; it’s a real game-changer. As Dr. Carol Uhlman, OBGYN at McKenzie Health Center, explains, this machine is used to “confirm pregnancy, determine sex of the baby, and will ultimately reduce the number of trips to the Radiology Department for women.” This means less running around for expecting moms and quicker access to important information for the OBGYN team – Dr. Uhlman, Dr. Andrea DiMichele, Dr. Teinesha Irvey, and Dr. Jenna Sloan.
Welker-Fevold expressed deep gratitude for ConocoPhillips’ ongoing support. “ConocoPhillips has consistently supported McKenzie Health over the years,” she said, mentioning past contributions ranging “from newborn hearing equipment to a sleeping space for providers when faced with inclement weather to construction of our greenhouse at the Good Shepherd Home. Their continued commitment to local healthcare is deeply appreciated!”
Dr. Uhlman echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the impact of the new equipment. “Having a sophisticated ultrasound at the bedside relieves and expedites making a diagnosis as well as a treatment plan,” she said. “Nothing is more satisfying than seeing a new mom view her baby.” The new machine has also allowed the clinic to expand its services. “It has also allowed us to add gynecological procedures previously not available in the area,” Dr. Uhlman explained. She also pointed out that having such high-quality equipment helps attract top-notch doctors to the rural area. “Often doctors are reluctant to come to remote areas,” she noted. “Having this level of ultrasound available reveals the dedication of local donors to allow us to provide exemplary services. ConocoPhillips, you have made all the difference! Thank you for supporting our team in our efforts to improve women’s healthcare!”
Rachel Logan, Stakeholder Relations Director for ConocoPhillips, explained their commitment to the community. “At ConocoPhillips, we’re dedicated to building relationships with organizations that serve the communities where we live and operate,” Logan said. “McKenzie Health directly addresses the vital needs of our community, and we are very proud to support them.”
Pete Edis, CEO of McKenzie Health, highlighted the impact of the labor and delivery services, launched in January 2023. “Since launching our labor and delivery services…we have proudly welcomed approximately 170 newborns into our care,” Edis stated. He also emphasized the importance of local access to care, noting that without these services, “local families would face the challenge of traveling 1-3 hours for obstetric care, just as they did for the previous 30 years.” He concluded, “By providing accessible, high-quality care close to home, we are not only supporting our current residents but also making our area more attractive to those looking to relocate, which is vital for stabilizing the local workforce. Thank you once again to ConocoPhillips for helping McKenzie Health make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.”
The Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health expressed gratitude for the donation, which helps them provide more complete healthcare for women right here in Watford City. To schedule an appointment with one of their OBGYN providers, you can call 701-444-2235.
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