Tuesday, June 28th, 2011
OSU president discusses partnership with hospital
By Jay Clouse
COLDWATER - Ohio State University President E. Gordon Gee visited Mercer County Community Hospital on Monday to discuss an ongoing partnership as part of his annual summer tour across the state.
"There is great power in partnership," Gee said. "I am grateful to be here."
The Coldwater hospital is one of six hospitals in the Ohio State Health Network.
Network official Patricia Hoch said the network gives smaller community hospitals access to the same educational tools, purchasing power and clinical expertise of larger medical institutions.
Gee said he could identify with the importance of healthcare in a rural area, adding that OSU has a calling to remain close to its roots in rural communities.
"I grew up in a very small town with a 22-person hospital," Gee said. "So I know the value."
Medical personnel from the local hospital and the university discussed the network's progress and what could be done to strengthen the partnership in the future.
Coldwater hospital's chief of staff Dr. Craig Dues proposed a plan to draw OSU medical students to the area.
"I would love to see us work with the network as far as training," Dues said.
Joe Mesarvey, senior director of support services at Coldwater hospital, said Ohio State has been extremely supportive in giving the hospital more purchasing power.
"I think the benefits are huge," Mesaney said. "The opportunities we have with the Ohio State network is huge for us."
Mercer Health director of marketing and communications Ken Obringer said the Coldwater hospital was thrilled to have the university president speak.
"It is a great opportunity," Obringer said. "It is an honor and a privilege to talk to someone at the top."
Gee concluded his tour of Mercer County by visiting with the community at Bella's Italian Grille in Celina.
