By HFT Staff

While the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients has declined, University Hospitals (UH) in Ohio has continued to be impacted by the national shortage of healthcare workers. To address the staffing challenges and optimize limited resources, UH recently announced that it will consolidate inpatient, surgical and emergency department services in its East Market to facilities at UH Ahuja, Geauga, Lake West, TriPoint, Beachwood, Geneva and Conneaut medical centers. 

UH will move its inpatient, surgical and emergency services at UH Bedford and UH Richmond medical centers, effective Aug 12. However, local physician services provided at the campuses will continue. The behavioral health unit at UH Richmond will continue to operate at this location. 

Emergency department services will shift from UH Bedford and UH Richmond campuses to nearby facilities at UH Ahuja and UH Lake West, respectively. Inpatient services will be available at UH Ahuja, UH Lake West, UH TriPoint and UH Geauga medical centers. 

Caregivers at UH Bedford and UH Richmond can transfer to locations within the UH system. UH will be working with them about their career path options as details and timing evolve. 

UH will also invest in new wellness programs and services at the UH Bedford and UH Richmond medical center campuses to serve these and surrounding communities. New UH services will include programs for wellness, safety, maternal and child health, food security and workforce development.