OCT 7 MEDIA RELEASE__OhioHealth is excited to announce a significant $8.5 million renovation project for the operating suite at Hardin Memorial Hospital, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare access and quality for the Kenton community.

The renovation will feature cutting-edge surgical equipment and the modernization of two operating rooms. Additionally, the project will aesthetically enhance two other OR suites, one of which will serve as a future procedural room, while the other will function as sterile storage.

The redesign will also include expanded recovery bays, updated physician and staff locker rooms, and a new dictation station. Additionally, this investment will improve infrastructure for surgeon recruitment and retention.

"This renovation solidifies our commitment to providing state-of-the-art medical care for our community in Hardin County. It's about ensuring our patients receive the highest level of care close to home for years to come," said Jim Parobek, president of OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital.

"By modernizing our surgical suite, we are enhancing both safety and efficiency, which are crucial for delivering exceptional patient care and supporting our talented surgical teams," said Jim Whitaker, senior advisor of operations at Hardin Memorial Hospital.

This multi-phased construction process will not interfere with patient care and the community's ongoing surgical needs.

This project underscores OhioHealth's dedication to investing in Hardin County.

"As a surgeon, I am proud to see this level of investment in our hospital and our community," said Aaron Fritz, DO, orthopedic surgeon at Hardin Memorial Hospital. "The surgical suite renovation will enhance our ability to provide advanced, efficient care close to home. It's exciting to see Hardin Memorial continue to grow and invest in the tools and spaces that help us deliver the best outcomes for our patients."

Construction will begin in March and is expected to be completed in early 2027.