Ravenna – On Friday, March 8 the Portage University Hospital Emergency Department, located in Ravenna, had its official ribbon-cutting ceremony. There were approximately 25 officials, staff and local business owners present at the event.
When compared to the worn-out appearance the emergency room has had for the past several years, the upgrade has given a fresh look to the image of the hospital.
After the ceremony, a tour of the new facility was given by Nursing Manager of the Emergency Department, A.J. Smiley. He said “We worked out all the bugs and this is what the renovation reflects.” The tour gave an informative look behind the scenes. “It flows better. Instead of taking people in and then back out to the waiting area,” Smiley said of the intake and treatment sections for patients once admitted and those family members waiting for them.
The upgraded department is considered a Level 3 Trauma Center and unique due to its location in Ravenna. It will now be able to retain more patients to be treated instead of sending them to other hospitals in Akron or Cleveland.
Ravenna Mayor Frank Seman was present and very enthused about the renovation of the Emergency Department because of positive influences it reflects for the city and outlying townships. Seman estimated that since taking over, what was once known to locals at Robinson Memorial Hospital, University Hospitals has invested “probably close to $50 million.” They have also provided police and firefighters with “equipment allowing them to treat more efficiently when they are out in the squad.”
Due to the symbiotic relationship the hospital has with Ravenna, the local community has been able to benefit in the areas of employment and medical treatment.
“We’re glad to have them,” Seman said. “They are a strong employer and we appreciate everything they have done. They are doing well and we are doing well.”
