Vortex Optics Supports UV-C Decontamination Technology at Upland Hills Health with $25,000 Gift

Challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic have been met with creative solutions at Upland Hills Health (UHH) in Dodgeville. They also brought into focus new ways to operate and new technologies to turn to. To create the safest environments for patients, residents, and staff, Upland Hills Health will soon be using UV-C technology. Vortex Optics in Barneveld is providing significant support, partnering in the effort to bring this technology to UHH patients.

Officials at Vortex recognized the impact this equipment will have in keeping the community safe and is contributing $25,000 toward the $107,000 cost for the technology. “We are excited to support Upland Hills Health with this project and its mission to serve patients, residents, staff and surrounding communities with the best possible care,” stated Joe Hamilton, CEO with Vortex Optics.

“We are grateful to Vortex for partnering with us on this enhanced safety feature for our patients, visitors, and staff,” Lisa Schnedler, President and CEO of Upland Hills Health stated.

UV-C light technology is being widely utilized in hospital and school settings to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. Shining UV-C light on surfaces where bacteria and viruses are most likely to live – such as countertops, bathroom sinks, and handrails – sanitizes the surfaces by damaging the microbes so they can’t infect people.

The system that Upland Hills Health plans to purchase has three separate UV-C light emitting towers, which can be placed in a way that minimizes shadows and areas that single-emitter systems can’t reach. UV-C light is effective in destroying various viruses and bacteria, including C-diff, MRSA, influenza and various seasonal coronaviruses. Studies are currently underway to determine with certainty if the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (SARS CoV-2) will be added to that list.

The virus that leads to COVID-19 is still with us, and healthcare must continue to be offered within the pandemic. The community is invited to join Vortex Optics in moving healthcare forward through this pandemic by donating to the Upland Hills Health Foundation. Any business or individual interested in donating to the technology fund to help purchase this UV-C light technology for Upland Hills Health can visit uplandhillshealth.org/foundation or call Foundation Director Julia Oellerich at 608.930.7169.