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Belpre residents are not the only people who should celebrate the groundbreaking of a new Women and Children's Hospital at Memorial Health System's Belpre Medical Campus. The opening of such a facility, in partnership with Akron Children's, is an important leap in health care access for our entire region.
As Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine put it, "This is world-class care that will be provided here." No need to drive a couple of hours to another facility.
"What this hospital represents is a major commitment by all of us to dramatically improve healthcare in Southeast Ohio," said DeWine. "Our goal is pretty simple ... we want every child in this state to live up to their God-given potential. ... We know it's important to remove health barriers, whether it's a mental health problem, addiction problem, whatever it is, to get help for that individual."
An advancement like this does not happen without the support of the entire community.
"In terms of thank yous and getting started, it is this community that makes this possible," said President and CEO of Memorial Health System J. Scott Cantley. "Those of you who care enough about health care and about building a great community ... we appreciate you all being here with us today as we embark on this next transformation for our region, thank you."
Indeed, it is because of the efforts of so many over the past year or so that MHS is able to bring this "world-class care" at a Women and Children's Hospital to Mid-Ohio Valley residents and a good portion of southeast Ohio.
"We had $2.5 million from Peoples Bank. We also have a $1 million gift from the Hall Financial Group and Chris Hall and a $1 million donation as well from the Dave and Arlene Archer family," said Vice President of Physician Services and Chief Medical Officer Dan Breece.
City, county, state and even federal officials are to be commended for their hard work on the matter, too.
This is a team success to celebrate, and a welcome addition to the health care landscape in a region where such access is essential. Congratulations and thank you to EVERYONE who is bringing the Women and Children's Hospital at Belpre Medical Campus to fruition.