About Us
The Ottawa Regional Mission | History | Facilities Tour
History
HIGHLIGHTS IN OTTAWA REGIONAL HOPSITAL
& HEALTHCARE CENTER’S HISTORY
1895
The John Stuart Ryburn Memorial Hospital opened at 713 Clinton Street. The hospital was presented to Ottawa by Cecilia Ryburn, widow of Dr. Ryburn, in whose memory the hospital was erected.
1909
Solomon E. King left a bequest of $40,000 and a new section of the hospital was built on the corner of Madison and Clinton Streets. The original building was then converted to a nurses’ home--it was connected to the new section by a ramp. The new section was known as the King and City Annex.
1939
A new addition was built. It ran in front of the original Ryburn building and connected with the King and City Annex.
During WWII the remains of the original 1895 Ryburn building was torn down and a new wing was built. The Nurses’ Home was moved to 717 Clinton Street when the hospital purchased the Leix property. During subsequent years, the Funk property at 723 Clinton and the former Bailey-Walsh Funeral Home at 729 Clinton were added to the Ryburn property.
1964
On December 7, a charter for a Not-for-Profit Corporation was filed.
1966
In January, the City of Ottawa transferred all of the Ryburn assets to the new Not-for-Profit Corporation.
1969
In early 1969, the Ottawa Silica Foundation presented the hospital with a deed to 30 acres of land as a building site.
1971
On March 25, the ground breaking ceremony for the new hospital building was held. The name of Ryburn Memorial Hospital was officially changed to the Community Hospital of Ottawa.
1974
On April 6, all patients were moved from the old hospital building and the new facility was opened at 1100 East Norris Drive.
1975
An inpatient mental health unit was opened on third floor east. Family-centered obstetrical program and Lamaze classes with certified instructors were implemented.
1976
The new facility was accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals.
An Outpatient Surgery Department and preadmission testing programs were started in response to a growing need of the community.
1978
The Medical Emergency Radio Communications (MERCI) system was implemented at the hospital.
1979
On January 10, a fire began in the medical electronics room about 4:12 p.m. resulting in total loss of electricity, phones, etc. All 99 patients were evacuated to area hospitals and nursing homes or discharged home. Clean up began and the new hospital was scheduled to reopen on January 14. However, snow hit the Ottawa area, postponing the opening until January 15.
1980
On May 19, the Alcohol Rehabilitation Unit opened on the third floor, west.
1981
A Respiratory Rehabilitation program was implemented for sufferers of chronic obstructive lung disease.
1982
The Ambulatory Surgery Unit was opened on the hospital’s fourth floor. On October 12, the revised Corporate Bylaws were approved by the Corporate Membership. These Bylaws changed the internal corporate structure to that of a typical corporation, with the officers of the Corporation being the Chairman, two Vice-Chairmen, Secretary and Treasurer. The President of the Corporation will be the Chief Executive Officer. Phyllis Leighton was elected the first Chairman of the Board. She is the first woman to serve in this position.
1983
CHO was designated a Level II perinatal center.
1984
The North Central Service Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary, was formed. A joint venture physician office opened in Seneca. In December, a joint venture CT scanner started operation at the hospital. The venture was between CHO and a corporation owned by 13 CHO physicians. More than 100 people attended the Hospice Town Meeting to express their support of the program, which is designed to help those terminally ill patients for whom curative therapy is no longer appropriate. CHO provided the seed money for the first year of the Hospice Program and acted as its catalyst.
1985
A parcel of land valued at more than $80,000 was donated to CHO by Ottawa Silica Company. Located in the East Gate Subdivision, the lot lies adjacent to hospital land and is to be used for the construction of medically-related facilities. In April, HospitaLodge, a program for people who need to stay overnight at CHO, but are not inpatients at CHO, was introduced to fulfill the needs of patients scheduled for ambulatory surgery or early morning testing and relatives of inpatients. In October, the corporate membership rejected the proposal to form a parent corporation. The hospital and other corporations were to report to the parent corporation and hospital corporate members would be members of the new parent corporation. A Lifeline Emergency Response System valued at more than $12,000 was donated to CHO by the Marseilles Sesquicentennial Celebration Committee. Lifeline connects an individual’s home via telephone to an emergency response center located at CHO, providing the subscriber with a means of getting assistance in medical and environmental emergencies. Thus, the system helps elderly and disabled people to maintain their independence and live on their own. CHO demonstrated its commitment to good health by implementing a new stricter smoking policy for the protection and comfort of patients and those who visit and work in the hospital. As a result of the policy, smoking is strictly limited to specifically designated areas only. In November, CHO implemented Home Health Services, a continuation and enhancement of the home health care previously provided by Ottawa Visiting Nurse Services. The service enables residents of LaSalle County and parts of Putnam and Kendall Counties to receive a wide variety of medical services in their homes, including skilled nursing care, IV therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, social services, laboratory services, homemaker services and mobile meals.
1986
A free-standing Physical Therapy Office opened in Yorkville. A new hospital/community education department was developed to respond to the quest for information by community residents on a variety of health-related issues. In December, nine CHO departments and areas were combined to form Support Services, implemented by ServiceMaster, Inc. Departments involved included Purchasing, Receiving, Dispatch, Sterile Processing, Linens, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Medical Electronics and Dietary.
1987
In September, the Volunteer Inservice Program was implemented to expand volunteer participation in more CHO areas. The program has grown significantly through the year and volunteers are involved in lab runs, respiratory therapy home visits, community services, clerical functions, supply runs and assistance on patient floors.
1988
The Care-A-Van transportation service was implemented, run and staffed completely by volunteers. The Medicare Counseling Program began, which gives area residents access to help in filling out their Medicare Part B claims for physician and outpatient treatment, as well as any supplemental or Medigap claims. Volunteer counselors are available by appointment at the hospital for free service; a small fee is charged if a counselor visits in the home.
1989
Announced a number of changes in the management team. Robert Chaffin was named Vice President of Finance in May and Robert Schmelter began his duties as President in September. They replaced Chuck Moss and Yale Wolk, respectively. Judy Christiansen, Vice President of Patient Services, acted as interim President. Purchased 5 lots in the Eastgate Subdivision for $110,000 from US Silica. Initiated 24-hour physician coverage in the Emergency Department. Terminated the Support Services Agreement with ServiceMaster. Closed the Yorkville office.
1990
Developed a Master Facility Plan to help alleviate space problems created by the increase in outpatient activity. Applied for and designated as a Rural Referral Center by the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), the agency that administers Medicare. In response to the severe healthcare worker shortage in the United States, recruited two laboratory technicians from the Philippines. Recruited Dr Vyas, an obstetrician to the medical staff. CHO’s Obstetrics Department was renamed the “CHO Family Birth Center” with a special emphasis on the birthing room concept and a family-centered delivery and post-partum experience.
1991
Terminated the management agreement with Primedica, who had been providing management services for Respiratory Care and developed the service in-house.
1992
Dennis Rodeghero was hired as administrative manager of the hospital’s mental health and substance abuse program. The hospital recruited a child and adolescent psychiatrist and implemented the services in September. CHO is the only provider of these services in LaSalle and neighboring counties. Smith, Hinchman, and Grylls, architects from Detroit, Michigan were hired to implement the Karlsberger facilities plan. The Karlsberger plan outlines space requirements for the hospital’s construction and renovation program. Home Health was moved to the old Prudential building on Lafayette Street as a result of its growth. The hospital decided to go to a smoke free environment within the buildings. The renovation of the fourth floor medical/surgical unit was completed by Halm Brothers. The renovation program included painting, carpeting and new nurses’ stations. The pharmacy department was remodeled and relocated to an area adjacent to the storeroom. A controversy over the existing CT Agreement developed among Board members which ultimately resulted in Robert Renwick and Helen Bach resigning from the Board. Subsequently, Ferracuti brought a shareholder derivative suit against CHO-DSS. The hospital sought an IRS private letter ruling on the CT Agreement and received it as well as terminating the existing Agreement and formulating a new Agreement with CHODSS. Albert Guthrie estate donated approximately $200,000 to the hospital. Kemper Securities was named as bond consultant and underwriter. Diversified Health Resources was named as the Hospital’s CON consultant. Koch Corporation of Lexington, Kentucky was awarded the contract for window replacement in the patient towers. All windows not affected by the construction/renovation program were replaced with low E LOF glass.
1993
After more than twelve months of work, the hospital ended its relationship with SH&G and entered into a design/build agreement with Hospital Building and Equipment of St. Louis, Missouri. The contract with HBE saved the hospital approximately $8 million over the life of the project. The hospital sold the Seneca medical office building to Terry Love for $45,000. Constructed an 8,000 square foot medical office building on one of the Eastgate lots. Halm Brothers was awarded the contract to construct four 2,000 square feet physician suites. The hospital developed the medical office building as a condominium association with Dr. Choi purchasing one suite, one suite was leased to Dr. Rosborough, and one suite was developed as a time share with several physicians. The hospital left one suite open for physician recruitment. In anticipation of the construction program and restrictions on patient/visitor parking, a shuttle service was established using volunteer services. Ferracuti vs. CHODSS lawsuit was dismissed in April without prejudice, however, was reinstated as Kossow vs. Morehead, et all in September. The window replacement project was completed. The mental health and substance abuse services unit, formerly the Help Unit, changed its name to CHOICES which is the acronym for CHO Individual Counseling and Evaluation Services. The name change was for product identity and better reflected the changing environment in mental health services. The Illinois Department of Public Health approved the remodeling program for the CHOICES unit. The renovation segregated child and adolescent, adult mental health and adult substance abuse services. Halm Brothers was contracted to remodel the third floor. The hospital went online with Meditech January 5, 1993. Meditech is a completely integrated information system which includes patient care, clinical information and financial information systems. The Radiology Department became accredited for the service of mammography by the American College of Radiology. Maeanne Stevens was named Director of Nursing. The specialty of neurology was added to the CHO Medical Staff. The surgery department performed the first laporascopic cholecystectomy procedure. The Auxiliary of CHO donated the equipment used in this procedure, which cost in excess of $30,000.
1994
The hospital received a unanimous decision to proceed with its construction renovation program from the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board in January 1994. The hospital issued bonds through the Illinois Health Financing Authority. The bonds were underwritten by Kemper Securities. The hospital received a BBB+ rating from Standard & Poors. The CHO Foundation was formed. Bettasso, Bowermaster, Breipohl, Palmer, Spencer, Spicer and Spicer were named to the Foundation Board. Ground breaking ceremonies for the construction renovation program took place on June 30th. CHOICES opened an outpatient clinic in Joliet. In October, the hospital was named to HCIA Top 100 Hospitals List. This is an indication of the hospital’s organizational efficiency, profitability and quality of care. Bill Reagan was Chairman of the Board during the year the hospital was named to the HCIA Top 100 Hospitals List. John Jevitz accepted the award at a presentation in Scottsdale, Arizona. CHO began audiology services which are under the direction of rehabilitation.
1995
A Physician/Hospital Affiliation was formed to provide the hospital and physicians leverage in joint negotiations with third party payers. The hospital purchased the lease to the Mary L. Ferguson building in an effort to bring Kidney Dialysis Services, Home Health Services and outpatient mental health services to a campus site. The Governing Board approved the renovation of the obstetrics department and awarded the contract to Halm Brothers Construction. ER Physicians, LTD. began providing physician coverage to the emergency department. ER Physicians are composed of all residency trained emergency physicians and the hospital took over the billing of the services, thus increasing patient satisfaction. A nephrology clinic was started at CHO as part of Midwest Kidney Hemodialysis Unit. The specialty of Gastroenterology was added to the CHO Medical Staff. Phase II of the construction program was completed which included the emergency department, laboratory, x-ray, ICU/CCU, surgery/recovery, ambulatory, anesthesia, physical therapy and human resources. The CHO Auxiliary donated $12,000 from proceeds generated by Re-Runs. CHO Board contracted with HBE to remodel the business office. Midwest Kidney received their CON for six dialysis units to be placed in the old Mary L. Ferguson building, now named the Community Health Building.
1996
CHO contracted with Vissering Construction to renovate the Community Health Building in the amount of $820,000. A child and adolescent psychiatrist signed an employment agreement and begins work in July. The hospital in an effort to prevent St. Francis Hospital in Peoria from purchasing the Johnson Medical building, negotiated a deal with Jed Johnson to purchase the medical office building and the two adjacent lots. A strategic growth committee was formed by the Board to forecast future needs of the hospital as well as to revise the mission and vision statements. Halm Brothers Electrical Contractors was hired to design, implement and install a campus lighting program. HBE completed Phase III of the construction renovation project on March 28, 1996. Physical Therapy, laboratory, switchboard and the emergency departments are completed. Midwest Kidney began seeing patients in the fall of 1996. A cardiology clinic was established in the new outpatient services department. The hospital contracted with Halm Brothers Construction to construct a garage/storage-type building on the eastern edge of its campus. Hospital signed a lease agreement with IV MRI to provide mobile MRI services to our facility. The hospital survived the July flood and received $10,000 from Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). The specialty of neurosurgery was added to the CHO Medical Staff.
1997
The Hospital contracted with two anesthesiologists and began billing for the services in-house. Foundation bylaws were revised to make them more user friendly. The hospital established a web site on the Internet at www.community-hospital.org. Yung Chung, M.D. joined the CHO Choices staff as an employed physician. Community Health purchased and implemented a new “Point of Care” computer charting system that interfaces with the Hospital’s Meditech software and enables field staff to enter patient/visit information into a hand-held unit while they are in a patient’s home. G.I. Services moves from the Operating Room to the Outpatient Department making registration and discharge more convenient for the patient. Occupational Therapy Services were added to the Rehabilitation Services Department. Occupational Therapy provides intervention to address deficits in independent living resulting from illness or injury. Renovation of the Family Birth Center was completed adding two new birthing rooms (total of 4) which feature home-like decor along with state of the art technology. The Family Birth Center began offering anesthesia labor pain management services. Choices implemented a Partial Hospitalization Program which is a short term day program which allows patients to go home each night, thus reducing cost and increasing patient convenience. Computerized endoscopy equipment was purchased which gives the physicians the capability of retrieving a picture of the patient’s previous procedures enabling the physician to compare changes in patient’s condition. CHO joined the area’s first stroke network which is coordinated by OSF Healthcare and St. Francis Medical Center. The focus of the network is public education.
1998
A clinical bone densitometer was purchased to expand health services geared to women. The Board of Governors approved a policy which would prevent the selling of office space as a condominium. Rehabilitation Services began offering the Life-Fit Program which is a supervised exercise program for at-risk patients. Choices Behavioral Services offered an eight-week Social Skills Development Program for children and adolescents, age five through twelve. This Program is designed to help children acquire the skills needed to feel confident and at ease in social situations. CHO Hospice introduced a Bereavement Program in December for families of those who have died at CHO or were a hospice patient. Choices opened a mental health outpatient clinic in Princeton. The unit is staffed with a psychiatrist, mental health therapist and a psychiatric nurse. CHO began offering Otacoustic (OEA) testing for infants. This simple screening detects hearing loss which if undetected can lead to language, social, emotional, and later academic development problems. The Adult Day Care Center located in the Ravlin Congregate Building was remodeled thanks to a $17,000 donation from the CHO Auxiliary. CHO was among a group of 18 hospitals from the Illinois Department of Public Health Region 2 recognized for emergency services for children. The Hospital received the recognition after a comprehensive review by the Illinois Department of Public Health verifying the presence of required equipment, supplies, protocols and specialized training specific to pediatric patients. CHO Foundation provided seed money to establish The Family Room, which is a joint venture of the CHO Foundation, LaSalle County Health Department, and the LaSalle County Housing Authority. The Program provides incentives in the form of maternal and baby supplies for documentation of pre and post natal care and effective parenting skills. This Program is specifically designed for teenage mothers and low-income families. Choices closed the Joliet Mental Health Clinic due to low referrals and staffing issues. Merrill Gildersleeve, M.D. relocated to South Carolina after nearly 20 years of practice at CHO and the Ottawa Medical Center. The Hospital signed an agreement with Alliance Imaging to provide MRI services to the Hospital. The state-of-the art 1.5 tesla G.E. unit is at the Hospital three days per week. The Hospital purchased a 32-acre tract of land across Norris Drive from Skymont Corporation for $320,000. The land begins at the Fox River and extends eastward to meet the parcel of land owned by Gladfelter’s Chapel. The purchase helps expand the Hospital’s options for further development. The court ruled favorably for the physicians and the Hospital in the Kossow vs. Morehead, et al lawsuit. CHO and sixteen Illinois hospitals filed a motion to intervene in the settlement of The People of the State of Illinois vs. Philip Morris, et al for the purpose of participating in the settlement negotiated between the Illinois Attorney General and the tobacco industry. The hospital’s intent is to convince the court that the hospitals are entitled to receive a portion of the settlement proceeds which the tobacco industry has agreed to pay the State.
1999
CHO Governing Board decides to add 13,000 square feet to Rehab Services. Celebrate Health presents first program. Corporate Bylaws are amended allowing for each governor to serve three consecutive three-year terms. Hospital received an additional $1 million in reimbursement due to Medicare Geographic Reclassification being accepted by HCFA. The Blanche Poltrock Estate donates $42,000 to CHO. Alliance Imaging begins to provide Mobil Lithotripsy services. Hospital closes the outpatient psychiatric clinic in Princeton due to decreasing utilization. Hospital engaged Deloitte and Touche to provide financial advisory services to assist in the management of the CHO Funded Depreciation assets.
2000
Auxiliary donated $90,000 to be used to pay for the therapeutic pool in Rehabilitation Services. It is the only pool of its kind in LaSalle County. Hospital implemented a new wage and salary program for hourly employees in an effort to attract and retain quality staff. Medicare implements new hospital reimbursement system (PPS) for outpatient services.
2001
Rehabilitation Department expansion is completed and occupied. Hospital adds Craig Kestenberg, D.O., child and adolescent psychiatrist to its medical staff. Hospital sponsors public meeting on Bioterrorism in response to the events of September 11th. Governing Board approves HBE as the design/builder of the Outpatient Expansion project.
2002
Hospital contracts with The Greeley Company to consult with the Medical Staff to rewrite the Medical Staff Bylaws and to reorganize the Medical Staff organization and functions. Hospital begins to offer complimentary medicine services such as yoga, massage therapy, and Reiki. Governing Board approves OSF Affiliation. Hospital completes project to provide fire protection sprinklers in patient tower. Hospital now has fire sprinklers in the entire building. Hospital installs latest generation of CT Scanner from General Electric at a cost of $837,673. Pain management clinic conducted by Dr. Gary Koehn is added to CHO services.
2003
Hospital signed a design-build contract with HBE to expand Outpatient Services. Hospital received a three-year accreditation decision from the JCAHO. Dr. Jason Goliath, a general surgeon, joined the hospital staff. Began offering Reiki services to OB patients. Recruited Dr. Joseph Pierri, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Contracted with Medical Outsourcing to provide PET Scanning services one day per week. Hired Mesirow Financial Services to be the underwriter for the 1994 bond refinancing project.
2004
Completed the Expansion Project involving the GI Lab, Emergency Room, Pharmacy, Respiratory Therapy, Laboratory waiting, Conference Room, Surgical storage, Patient Accounting, and Volunteer Services. Cost of the project was $2.9 million with an additional $500,000 for moveable equipment.
2005
Robert Schmelter passed away after an extended illness in February. Robert Chaffin was named interim CEO until May when he was confirmed as the CEO. Opened Women’s Health Services and named Terri Jacobs as the Coordinator and Jason Goliath, MD as the Medical Director. Working with VOA of Chicago, developed a Master Facility Plan to address areas needed for change. Contracted with Vissering Construction to build a 3 story, 33,000 sq. ft. building on hospital grounds to house financial and information services and two floors of physician offices. The cost of the building was to be under $5 million.
2006
Completed the “1050” building in the spring and began occupying with newly recruited physicians – twin OB/Gyn’s, Urology, ENT and Family practice. Continued working on the Master Facility Plan with Farnsworth of Bloomington as the architectural firm. Added full field digital mammography.
2007
In April, signed letter of intent to build cancer center as a joint venture with radiation oncologist Dr. Kevin Khater and Illinois Cancer Care. In May, broke ground on 2,000 sq. ft. addition to radiology department, which will house a new MRI unit with Total imaging matrix technology allowing for full body imaging with reduced scan times and better image resolution. In August, broke ground on 16,000 sq. ft. cancer center, a joint venture between the hospital, radiation oncologist Dr. Kevin Khater and Illinois Cancer Care. In October, recognized by the Premiere healthcare alliance with the 2007 CareScience Select Practice National Quality Award for Excellence in Quality of Patient Care and Efficiency. CHO was among 49 hospitals selected nationally for this honor out of 4,700 eligible.
2008
Becomes the first hospital in the area to use the crystalens® Accommodation Lens for cataract surgery patients. Became the first hospital in the area to begin using a state-of-the-art SPECT CT camera, which has the capacity to pinpoint the location and extent of disease anywhere in the body. Respiratory Care department receives the Quality Respiratory Care Program award for the sixth consecutive year from the American Association for Respiratory Care. Hospital receives another three-year accreditation in mammography form the American College of Radiology. In April, opens $6 million addition to Radiology Department. The 2,000 sq. ft. addition houses a new Siemens Tesla Magnetom MRI unit with plans to also include a Dual Source CT scanner. Began doing business as Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center to communicate the types and levels of services now provided at the facility and to acknowledge the current service area, which extends beyond Ottawa. Marketing Department receives Gold Aster Award in the total advertising campaign category for the My Choice campaign from Marketing Healthcare Today and Creative Images. Laboratory receives JCAHO Re-accreditation for the 14th consecutive year with surveyor noting, “It was the best survey I’ve completed.” Ottawa Regional Foundation donates an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to both the Ottawa National and American Little League organizations. In June, hospital contracts with new ER group, MEDS (Midwest Emergency Department Services). The new group provides all board-certified in emergency medicine physicians during regular coverage. Hospital begins using RF Surgical Detection System, an FDA-approved technology that alerts surgical staff if surgical supplies or equipment remain in a patient prior to surgical site closure, thereby reducing infection. In August, Fox River Cancer Center opens providing patients in the Illinois Valley with the latest treatment options and trials in cancer therapy. The Fox River Cancer Center is a joint venture between Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center, Radiation Oncologist Kevin Khater, MD, PhD, and Illinois CancerCare. Open House held in October. Ottawa Regional purchases Dual Source CT scanner, the latest technology available for Ct scanning. In August, the hospital partners with OSF St. Francis in the Heart 7-7-7 program to provide fast and accurate care to patients experiencing a heart attack. Hospital holds 2nd Autumn Leaves Gala in October. Raises $35,000 for OB unit. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary buys four computers (2 laptops and 2 desktops) for patient and visitor use. Ottawa Regional adds third level to its parking deck adjacent to the 1050 Medical Office Building in October. Ottawa Regional breaks ground on new Outpatient Mental Health Building in November. Ottawa Regional gets its first “reverse-commute” patient from Chicago when a patient chooses to come to Ottawa rather than go to Mayo Clinic for a nuclear medicine test using the SPECT/CT. Hospital employees donate 10 boxes of food to benefit the community during the holidays. Ottawa Regional begins using the ACUSON S2000 ultrasound with capabilities to provide 3D and 4D imaging. Ottawa Regional begins construction on a two-level parking deck in front of the main hospital; implements shuttle service and valet parking.
2009
Ottawa Regional Auxiliary celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a year-long series of events to raise funds to purchase the Acuson Ultrasound. Ottawa Regional remodels medical/surgical patient rooms, giving the unit a hotel-like feel with wall sconces, flat screen TVs, carpeting and window treatments. Ottawa Regional Hospital Auxiliary “Walk 3 Miles for a Healthy Heart” nets $1,558. Respiratory Care Department receives Quality Respiratory Care Program award from the American Association for Respiratory care for the seventh consecutive year. On February 17th, Ottawa Regional closes on property on the Southside of Ottawa owned by Centrue Bank at 401 East McKinley Road. Emergency Department honored by OSF St. Francis Heart Hospital for being among the hospitals in its Heart 7-7-7 Network that have good time for getting patient experiencing a heart attack to the cardiac catherization lab at OSF St Francis in Peoria. Of the hospitals in the network, Ottawa Regional is the farthest away. Hospital begins implementation of Allscripts Electronic Health Records system. Ottawa Regional Foundation purchases CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) ventilators for each of the eight ambulances belonging to Ottawa Regional’s emergency medical services system. Ottawa Regional Hospital becomes a Safe Sitter site. Education staff certified to offer the nationally recognized Safe Sitter program. Ottawa Regional begins utilizing Intellidot Bar Coding patient safety system to ensure right patient, right medication, right site, right time and right dose. Intellidot is featured on Oprah Show with Dr. Oz, Dennis and Kimberly Quaid and medical professionals from Cedar Mt. Sinai Hospital. Dawn Trompeter promoted to Vice President, Finance in March. Ottawa Regional Foundation receives an Aster Award for excellence in medical marketing for its newly-designed brochure, “Seeds of Advancement.” In June, the Adult Day Center received a new patient transportation vehicle. The Chevrolet minivan, which was modified with custom equipment to support special accessibility needs, was purchased with grant money from the Federal Transit Administration and the Illinois Department of Transportation. On July 21st, the hospital breaks ground on its Marseilles Medical Office building. The 4,400 sq. ft. building will house two primary care physicians. In August, the hospital’s Marseilles Medical Office Building while under construction is recognized as a Green Building of America Award-winning project. Hospital’s EMS Coordinator, Rosemary McGinnis receives “Unsung Hero” award from the national Association of Emergency Medical Educators. In September, main entrance with new canopy and upper level of parking deck opens. Upper level of parking deck has 106 spaces. Adult Day Center changes its name to Connections Adult Day Center in September to better reflect its mission of connecting participants with activities in the community. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary hosts “Totally Pink” with nationally recognized breast cancer survivor and speaker Becky Olson. The 400 attendees packed the Ottawa Township High School auditorium. Employees donate 42 food baskets to United Way for families in need during holiday season. In November, the CHOICES outpatient mental health building, while still under construction, is named a Green Building of America Award-winning project. This is the second Green Building of America Award received by Ottawa Regional. Earlier in the year, the hospital’s Marseilles Medical Office Building was also named a Green Building of America Award-winning project. Nuclear Medicine Department at Ottawa Regional Hospital becomes the first in the Illinois Valley to receive a 3-year accreditation in Nuclear Medicine from the American College of Radiology. Dr. Kevin Khater, radiation oncologist and partner with Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center in Radiation Oncology of Northern Illinois at the Fox River Cancer Center, is named President of the Board of Regional Directors of the American Cancer Society. In December, lower level of main hospital parking deck opens. The lower level has 80 spaces for a total of 186 parking spaces directly in front of the main hospital. There is also a designated area for physician parking only. On December 31st, closed on a deal to purchase the practice assets of the Ottawa Medical Center, forming a new, for-profit subsidiary of the hospital, Ottawa Regional Medical Center. The new primary group is the largest primary care physician group in LaSalle County.
2010
In January, Ottawa Regional receives full accreditation by the Joint Commission. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary purchases Site-Rite system, to aid in the insertion of IVs and PICC lines. The ultrasound guided system makes intravenous access easier, particularly for patients with small and/or hard to find veins. Six Emergency Department nurses earn emergency trauma care certification. Ottawa Regional contracts with Central Illinois Radiological Associates, a group of 64 radiologists, who will help the hospital expedite and expand its radiology and diagnostic imaging interpretation capabilities. Respiratory Care department receives Quality Respiratory Care Program award for eighth consecutive year from the American Association for Respiratory Care. Dr. Cynthia Cabalfin and Dr. Raul Guerrero join Ottawa Regional Medical Center and move their practice from the 1050 Medical Office Building to the Ottawa Regional Medical Center, 1614 E. Norris Drive.
The John Stuart Ryburn Memorial Hospital opened at 713 Clinton Street. The hospital was presented to Ottawa by Cecilia Ryburn, widow of Dr. Ryburn, in whose memory the hospital was erected.
1909
Solomon E. King left a bequest of $40,000 and a new section of the hospital was built on the corner of Madison and Clinton Streets. The original building was then converted to a nurses’ home--it was connected to the new section by a ramp. The new section was known as the King and City Annex.
1939
A new addition was built. It ran in front of the original Ryburn building and connected with the King and City Annex.
During WWII the remains of the original 1895 Ryburn building was torn down and a new wing was built. The Nurses’ Home was moved to 717 Clinton Street when the hospital purchased the Leix property. During subsequent years, the Funk property at 723 Clinton and the former Bailey-Walsh Funeral Home at 729 Clinton were added to the Ryburn property.
1964
On December 7, a charter for a Not-for-Profit Corporation was filed.
1966
In January, the City of Ottawa transferred all of the Ryburn assets to the new Not-for-Profit Corporation.
1969
In early 1969, the Ottawa Silica Foundation presented the hospital with a deed to 30 acres of land as a building site.
1971
On March 25, the ground breaking ceremony for the new hospital building was held. The name of Ryburn Memorial Hospital was officially changed to the Community Hospital of Ottawa.
1974
On April 6, all patients were moved from the old hospital building and the new facility was opened at 1100 East Norris Drive.
1975
An inpatient mental health unit was opened on third floor east. Family-centered obstetrical program and Lamaze classes with certified instructors were implemented.
1976
The new facility was accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals.
An Outpatient Surgery Department and preadmission testing programs were started in response to a growing need of the community.
1978
The Medical Emergency Radio Communications (MERCI) system was implemented at the hospital.
1979
On January 10, a fire began in the medical electronics room about 4:12 p.m. resulting in total loss of electricity, phones, etc. All 99 patients were evacuated to area hospitals and nursing homes or discharged home. Clean up began and the new hospital was scheduled to reopen on January 14. However, snow hit the Ottawa area, postponing the opening until January 15.
1980
On May 19, the Alcohol Rehabilitation Unit opened on the third floor, west.
1981
A Respiratory Rehabilitation program was implemented for sufferers of chronic obstructive lung disease.
1982
The Ambulatory Surgery Unit was opened on the hospital’s fourth floor. On October 12, the revised Corporate Bylaws were approved by the Corporate Membership. These Bylaws changed the internal corporate structure to that of a typical corporation, with the officers of the Corporation being the Chairman, two Vice-Chairmen, Secretary and Treasurer. The President of the Corporation will be the Chief Executive Officer. Phyllis Leighton was elected the first Chairman of the Board. She is the first woman to serve in this position.
1983
CHO was designated a Level II perinatal center.
1984
The North Central Service Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary, was formed. A joint venture physician office opened in Seneca. In December, a joint venture CT scanner started operation at the hospital. The venture was between CHO and a corporation owned by 13 CHO physicians. More than 100 people attended the Hospice Town Meeting to express their support of the program, which is designed to help those terminally ill patients for whom curative therapy is no longer appropriate. CHO provided the seed money for the first year of the Hospice Program and acted as its catalyst.
1985
A parcel of land valued at more than $80,000 was donated to CHO by Ottawa Silica Company. Located in the East Gate Subdivision, the lot lies adjacent to hospital land and is to be used for the construction of medically-related facilities. In April, HospitaLodge, a program for people who need to stay overnight at CHO, but are not inpatients at CHO, was introduced to fulfill the needs of patients scheduled for ambulatory surgery or early morning testing and relatives of inpatients. In October, the corporate membership rejected the proposal to form a parent corporation. The hospital and other corporations were to report to the parent corporation and hospital corporate members would be members of the new parent corporation. A Lifeline Emergency Response System valued at more than $12,000 was donated to CHO by the Marseilles Sesquicentennial Celebration Committee. Lifeline connects an individual’s home via telephone to an emergency response center located at CHO, providing the subscriber with a means of getting assistance in medical and environmental emergencies. Thus, the system helps elderly and disabled people to maintain their independence and live on their own. CHO demonstrated its commitment to good health by implementing a new stricter smoking policy for the protection and comfort of patients and those who visit and work in the hospital. As a result of the policy, smoking is strictly limited to specifically designated areas only. In November, CHO implemented Home Health Services, a continuation and enhancement of the home health care previously provided by Ottawa Visiting Nurse Services. The service enables residents of LaSalle County and parts of Putnam and Kendall Counties to receive a wide variety of medical services in their homes, including skilled nursing care, IV therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, social services, laboratory services, homemaker services and mobile meals.
1986
A free-standing Physical Therapy Office opened in Yorkville. A new hospital/community education department was developed to respond to the quest for information by community residents on a variety of health-related issues. In December, nine CHO departments and areas were combined to form Support Services, implemented by ServiceMaster, Inc. Departments involved included Purchasing, Receiving, Dispatch, Sterile Processing, Linens, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Medical Electronics and Dietary.
1987
In September, the Volunteer Inservice Program was implemented to expand volunteer participation in more CHO areas. The program has grown significantly through the year and volunteers are involved in lab runs, respiratory therapy home visits, community services, clerical functions, supply runs and assistance on patient floors.
1988
The Care-A-Van transportation service was implemented, run and staffed completely by volunteers. The Medicare Counseling Program began, which gives area residents access to help in filling out their Medicare Part B claims for physician and outpatient treatment, as well as any supplemental or Medigap claims. Volunteer counselors are available by appointment at the hospital for free service; a small fee is charged if a counselor visits in the home.
1989
Announced a number of changes in the management team. Robert Chaffin was named Vice President of Finance in May and Robert Schmelter began his duties as President in September. They replaced Chuck Moss and Yale Wolk, respectively. Judy Christiansen, Vice President of Patient Services, acted as interim President. Purchased 5 lots in the Eastgate Subdivision for $110,000 from US Silica. Initiated 24-hour physician coverage in the Emergency Department. Terminated the Support Services Agreement with ServiceMaster. Closed the Yorkville office.
1990
Developed a Master Facility Plan to help alleviate space problems created by the increase in outpatient activity. Applied for and designated as a Rural Referral Center by the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), the agency that administers Medicare. In response to the severe healthcare worker shortage in the United States, recruited two laboratory technicians from the Philippines. Recruited Dr Vyas, an obstetrician to the medical staff. CHO’s Obstetrics Department was renamed the “CHO Family Birth Center” with a special emphasis on the birthing room concept and a family-centered delivery and post-partum experience.
1991
Terminated the management agreement with Primedica, who had been providing management services for Respiratory Care and developed the service in-house.
1992
Dennis Rodeghero was hired as administrative manager of the hospital’s mental health and substance abuse program. The hospital recruited a child and adolescent psychiatrist and implemented the services in September. CHO is the only provider of these services in LaSalle and neighboring counties. Smith, Hinchman, and Grylls, architects from Detroit, Michigan were hired to implement the Karlsberger facilities plan. The Karlsberger plan outlines space requirements for the hospital’s construction and renovation program. Home Health was moved to the old Prudential building on Lafayette Street as a result of its growth. The hospital decided to go to a smoke free environment within the buildings. The renovation of the fourth floor medical/surgical unit was completed by Halm Brothers. The renovation program included painting, carpeting and new nurses’ stations. The pharmacy department was remodeled and relocated to an area adjacent to the storeroom. A controversy over the existing CT Agreement developed among Board members which ultimately resulted in Robert Renwick and Helen Bach resigning from the Board. Subsequently, Ferracuti brought a shareholder derivative suit against CHO-DSS. The hospital sought an IRS private letter ruling on the CT Agreement and received it as well as terminating the existing Agreement and formulating a new Agreement with CHODSS. Albert Guthrie estate donated approximately $200,000 to the hospital. Kemper Securities was named as bond consultant and underwriter. Diversified Health Resources was named as the Hospital’s CON consultant. Koch Corporation of Lexington, Kentucky was awarded the contract for window replacement in the patient towers. All windows not affected by the construction/renovation program were replaced with low E LOF glass.
1993
After more than twelve months of work, the hospital ended its relationship with SH&G and entered into a design/build agreement with Hospital Building and Equipment of St. Louis, Missouri. The contract with HBE saved the hospital approximately $8 million over the life of the project. The hospital sold the Seneca medical office building to Terry Love for $45,000. Constructed an 8,000 square foot medical office building on one of the Eastgate lots. Halm Brothers was awarded the contract to construct four 2,000 square feet physician suites. The hospital developed the medical office building as a condominium association with Dr. Choi purchasing one suite, one suite was leased to Dr. Rosborough, and one suite was developed as a time share with several physicians. The hospital left one suite open for physician recruitment. In anticipation of the construction program and restrictions on patient/visitor parking, a shuttle service was established using volunteer services. Ferracuti vs. CHODSS lawsuit was dismissed in April without prejudice, however, was reinstated as Kossow vs. Morehead, et all in September. The window replacement project was completed. The mental health and substance abuse services unit, formerly the Help Unit, changed its name to CHOICES which is the acronym for CHO Individual Counseling and Evaluation Services. The name change was for product identity and better reflected the changing environment in mental health services. The Illinois Department of Public Health approved the remodeling program for the CHOICES unit. The renovation segregated child and adolescent, adult mental health and adult substance abuse services. Halm Brothers was contracted to remodel the third floor. The hospital went online with Meditech January 5, 1993. Meditech is a completely integrated information system which includes patient care, clinical information and financial information systems. The Radiology Department became accredited for the service of mammography by the American College of Radiology. Maeanne Stevens was named Director of Nursing. The specialty of neurology was added to the CHO Medical Staff. The surgery department performed the first laporascopic cholecystectomy procedure. The Auxiliary of CHO donated the equipment used in this procedure, which cost in excess of $30,000.
1994
The hospital received a unanimous decision to proceed with its construction renovation program from the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board in January 1994. The hospital issued bonds through the Illinois Health Financing Authority. The bonds were underwritten by Kemper Securities. The hospital received a BBB+ rating from Standard & Poors. The CHO Foundation was formed. Bettasso, Bowermaster, Breipohl, Palmer, Spencer, Spicer and Spicer were named to the Foundation Board. Ground breaking ceremonies for the construction renovation program took place on June 30th. CHOICES opened an outpatient clinic in Joliet. In October, the hospital was named to HCIA Top 100 Hospitals List. This is an indication of the hospital’s organizational efficiency, profitability and quality of care. Bill Reagan was Chairman of the Board during the year the hospital was named to the HCIA Top 100 Hospitals List. John Jevitz accepted the award at a presentation in Scottsdale, Arizona. CHO began audiology services which are under the direction of rehabilitation.
1995
A Physician/Hospital Affiliation was formed to provide the hospital and physicians leverage in joint negotiations with third party payers. The hospital purchased the lease to the Mary L. Ferguson building in an effort to bring Kidney Dialysis Services, Home Health Services and outpatient mental health services to a campus site. The Governing Board approved the renovation of the obstetrics department and awarded the contract to Halm Brothers Construction. ER Physicians, LTD. began providing physician coverage to the emergency department. ER Physicians are composed of all residency trained emergency physicians and the hospital took over the billing of the services, thus increasing patient satisfaction. A nephrology clinic was started at CHO as part of Midwest Kidney Hemodialysis Unit. The specialty of Gastroenterology was added to the CHO Medical Staff. Phase II of the construction program was completed which included the emergency department, laboratory, x-ray, ICU/CCU, surgery/recovery, ambulatory, anesthesia, physical therapy and human resources. The CHO Auxiliary donated $12,000 from proceeds generated by Re-Runs. CHO Board contracted with HBE to remodel the business office. Midwest Kidney received their CON for six dialysis units to be placed in the old Mary L. Ferguson building, now named the Community Health Building.
1996
CHO contracted with Vissering Construction to renovate the Community Health Building in the amount of $820,000. A child and adolescent psychiatrist signed an employment agreement and begins work in July. The hospital in an effort to prevent St. Francis Hospital in Peoria from purchasing the Johnson Medical building, negotiated a deal with Jed Johnson to purchase the medical office building and the two adjacent lots. A strategic growth committee was formed by the Board to forecast future needs of the hospital as well as to revise the mission and vision statements. Halm Brothers Electrical Contractors was hired to design, implement and install a campus lighting program. HBE completed Phase III of the construction renovation project on March 28, 1996. Physical Therapy, laboratory, switchboard and the emergency departments are completed. Midwest Kidney began seeing patients in the fall of 1996. A cardiology clinic was established in the new outpatient services department. The hospital contracted with Halm Brothers Construction to construct a garage/storage-type building on the eastern edge of its campus. Hospital signed a lease agreement with IV MRI to provide mobile MRI services to our facility. The hospital survived the July flood and received $10,000 from Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). The specialty of neurosurgery was added to the CHO Medical Staff.
1997
The Hospital contracted with two anesthesiologists and began billing for the services in-house. Foundation bylaws were revised to make them more user friendly. The hospital established a web site on the Internet at www.community-hospital.org. Yung Chung, M.D. joined the CHO Choices staff as an employed physician. Community Health purchased and implemented a new “Point of Care” computer charting system that interfaces with the Hospital’s Meditech software and enables field staff to enter patient/visit information into a hand-held unit while they are in a patient’s home. G.I. Services moves from the Operating Room to the Outpatient Department making registration and discharge more convenient for the patient. Occupational Therapy Services were added to the Rehabilitation Services Department. Occupational Therapy provides intervention to address deficits in independent living resulting from illness or injury. Renovation of the Family Birth Center was completed adding two new birthing rooms (total of 4) which feature home-like decor along with state of the art technology. The Family Birth Center began offering anesthesia labor pain management services. Choices implemented a Partial Hospitalization Program which is a short term day program which allows patients to go home each night, thus reducing cost and increasing patient convenience. Computerized endoscopy equipment was purchased which gives the physicians the capability of retrieving a picture of the patient’s previous procedures enabling the physician to compare changes in patient’s condition. CHO joined the area’s first stroke network which is coordinated by OSF Healthcare and St. Francis Medical Center. The focus of the network is public education.
1998
A clinical bone densitometer was purchased to expand health services geared to women. The Board of Governors approved a policy which would prevent the selling of office space as a condominium. Rehabilitation Services began offering the Life-Fit Program which is a supervised exercise program for at-risk patients. Choices Behavioral Services offered an eight-week Social Skills Development Program for children and adolescents, age five through twelve. This Program is designed to help children acquire the skills needed to feel confident and at ease in social situations. CHO Hospice introduced a Bereavement Program in December for families of those who have died at CHO or were a hospice patient. Choices opened a mental health outpatient clinic in Princeton. The unit is staffed with a psychiatrist, mental health therapist and a psychiatric nurse. CHO began offering Otacoustic (OEA) testing for infants. This simple screening detects hearing loss which if undetected can lead to language, social, emotional, and later academic development problems. The Adult Day Care Center located in the Ravlin Congregate Building was remodeled thanks to a $17,000 donation from the CHO Auxiliary. CHO was among a group of 18 hospitals from the Illinois Department of Public Health Region 2 recognized for emergency services for children. The Hospital received the recognition after a comprehensive review by the Illinois Department of Public Health verifying the presence of required equipment, supplies, protocols and specialized training specific to pediatric patients. CHO Foundation provided seed money to establish The Family Room, which is a joint venture of the CHO Foundation, LaSalle County Health Department, and the LaSalle County Housing Authority. The Program provides incentives in the form of maternal and baby supplies for documentation of pre and post natal care and effective parenting skills. This Program is specifically designed for teenage mothers and low-income families. Choices closed the Joliet Mental Health Clinic due to low referrals and staffing issues. Merrill Gildersleeve, M.D. relocated to South Carolina after nearly 20 years of practice at CHO and the Ottawa Medical Center. The Hospital signed an agreement with Alliance Imaging to provide MRI services to the Hospital. The state-of-the art 1.5 tesla G.E. unit is at the Hospital three days per week. The Hospital purchased a 32-acre tract of land across Norris Drive from Skymont Corporation for $320,000. The land begins at the Fox River and extends eastward to meet the parcel of land owned by Gladfelter’s Chapel. The purchase helps expand the Hospital’s options for further development. The court ruled favorably for the physicians and the Hospital in the Kossow vs. Morehead, et al lawsuit. CHO and sixteen Illinois hospitals filed a motion to intervene in the settlement of The People of the State of Illinois vs. Philip Morris, et al for the purpose of participating in the settlement negotiated between the Illinois Attorney General and the tobacco industry. The hospital’s intent is to convince the court that the hospitals are entitled to receive a portion of the settlement proceeds which the tobacco industry has agreed to pay the State.
1999
CHO Governing Board decides to add 13,000 square feet to Rehab Services. Celebrate Health presents first program. Corporate Bylaws are amended allowing for each governor to serve three consecutive three-year terms. Hospital received an additional $1 million in reimbursement due to Medicare Geographic Reclassification being accepted by HCFA. The Blanche Poltrock Estate donates $42,000 to CHO. Alliance Imaging begins to provide Mobil Lithotripsy services. Hospital closes the outpatient psychiatric clinic in Princeton due to decreasing utilization. Hospital engaged Deloitte and Touche to provide financial advisory services to assist in the management of the CHO Funded Depreciation assets.
2000
Auxiliary donated $90,000 to be used to pay for the therapeutic pool in Rehabilitation Services. It is the only pool of its kind in LaSalle County. Hospital implemented a new wage and salary program for hourly employees in an effort to attract and retain quality staff. Medicare implements new hospital reimbursement system (PPS) for outpatient services.
2001
Rehabilitation Department expansion is completed and occupied. Hospital adds Craig Kestenberg, D.O., child and adolescent psychiatrist to its medical staff. Hospital sponsors public meeting on Bioterrorism in response to the events of September 11th. Governing Board approves HBE as the design/builder of the Outpatient Expansion project.
2002
Hospital contracts with The Greeley Company to consult with the Medical Staff to rewrite the Medical Staff Bylaws and to reorganize the Medical Staff organization and functions. Hospital begins to offer complimentary medicine services such as yoga, massage therapy, and Reiki. Governing Board approves OSF Affiliation. Hospital completes project to provide fire protection sprinklers in patient tower. Hospital now has fire sprinklers in the entire building. Hospital installs latest generation of CT Scanner from General Electric at a cost of $837,673. Pain management clinic conducted by Dr. Gary Koehn is added to CHO services.
2003
Hospital signed a design-build contract with HBE to expand Outpatient Services. Hospital received a three-year accreditation decision from the JCAHO. Dr. Jason Goliath, a general surgeon, joined the hospital staff. Began offering Reiki services to OB patients. Recruited Dr. Joseph Pierri, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Contracted with Medical Outsourcing to provide PET Scanning services one day per week. Hired Mesirow Financial Services to be the underwriter for the 1994 bond refinancing project.
2004
Completed the Expansion Project involving the GI Lab, Emergency Room, Pharmacy, Respiratory Therapy, Laboratory waiting, Conference Room, Surgical storage, Patient Accounting, and Volunteer Services. Cost of the project was $2.9 million with an additional $500,000 for moveable equipment.
2005
Robert Schmelter passed away after an extended illness in February. Robert Chaffin was named interim CEO until May when he was confirmed as the CEO. Opened Women’s Health Services and named Terri Jacobs as the Coordinator and Jason Goliath, MD as the Medical Director. Working with VOA of Chicago, developed a Master Facility Plan to address areas needed for change. Contracted with Vissering Construction to build a 3 story, 33,000 sq. ft. building on hospital grounds to house financial and information services and two floors of physician offices. The cost of the building was to be under $5 million.
2006
Completed the “1050” building in the spring and began occupying with newly recruited physicians – twin OB/Gyn’s, Urology, ENT and Family practice. Continued working on the Master Facility Plan with Farnsworth of Bloomington as the architectural firm. Added full field digital mammography.
2007
In April, signed letter of intent to build cancer center as a joint venture with radiation oncologist Dr. Kevin Khater and Illinois Cancer Care. In May, broke ground on 2,000 sq. ft. addition to radiology department, which will house a new MRI unit with Total imaging matrix technology allowing for full body imaging with reduced scan times and better image resolution. In August, broke ground on 16,000 sq. ft. cancer center, a joint venture between the hospital, radiation oncologist Dr. Kevin Khater and Illinois Cancer Care. In October, recognized by the Premiere healthcare alliance with the 2007 CareScience Select Practice National Quality Award for Excellence in Quality of Patient Care and Efficiency. CHO was among 49 hospitals selected nationally for this honor out of 4,700 eligible.
2008
Becomes the first hospital in the area to use the crystalens® Accommodation Lens for cataract surgery patients. Became the first hospital in the area to begin using a state-of-the-art SPECT CT camera, which has the capacity to pinpoint the location and extent of disease anywhere in the body. Respiratory Care department receives the Quality Respiratory Care Program award for the sixth consecutive year from the American Association for Respiratory Care. Hospital receives another three-year accreditation in mammography form the American College of Radiology. In April, opens $6 million addition to Radiology Department. The 2,000 sq. ft. addition houses a new Siemens Tesla Magnetom MRI unit with plans to also include a Dual Source CT scanner. Began doing business as Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center to communicate the types and levels of services now provided at the facility and to acknowledge the current service area, which extends beyond Ottawa. Marketing Department receives Gold Aster Award in the total advertising campaign category for the My Choice campaign from Marketing Healthcare Today and Creative Images. Laboratory receives JCAHO Re-accreditation for the 14th consecutive year with surveyor noting, “It was the best survey I’ve completed.” Ottawa Regional Foundation donates an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to both the Ottawa National and American Little League organizations. In June, hospital contracts with new ER group, MEDS (Midwest Emergency Department Services). The new group provides all board-certified in emergency medicine physicians during regular coverage. Hospital begins using RF Surgical Detection System, an FDA-approved technology that alerts surgical staff if surgical supplies or equipment remain in a patient prior to surgical site closure, thereby reducing infection. In August, Fox River Cancer Center opens providing patients in the Illinois Valley with the latest treatment options and trials in cancer therapy. The Fox River Cancer Center is a joint venture between Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center, Radiation Oncologist Kevin Khater, MD, PhD, and Illinois CancerCare. Open House held in October. Ottawa Regional purchases Dual Source CT scanner, the latest technology available for Ct scanning. In August, the hospital partners with OSF St. Francis in the Heart 7-7-7 program to provide fast and accurate care to patients experiencing a heart attack. Hospital holds 2nd Autumn Leaves Gala in October. Raises $35,000 for OB unit. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary buys four computers (2 laptops and 2 desktops) for patient and visitor use. Ottawa Regional adds third level to its parking deck adjacent to the 1050 Medical Office Building in October. Ottawa Regional breaks ground on new Outpatient Mental Health Building in November. Ottawa Regional gets its first “reverse-commute” patient from Chicago when a patient chooses to come to Ottawa rather than go to Mayo Clinic for a nuclear medicine test using the SPECT/CT. Hospital employees donate 10 boxes of food to benefit the community during the holidays. Ottawa Regional begins using the ACUSON S2000 ultrasound with capabilities to provide 3D and 4D imaging. Ottawa Regional begins construction on a two-level parking deck in front of the main hospital; implements shuttle service and valet parking.
2009
Ottawa Regional Auxiliary celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a year-long series of events to raise funds to purchase the Acuson Ultrasound. Ottawa Regional remodels medical/surgical patient rooms, giving the unit a hotel-like feel with wall sconces, flat screen TVs, carpeting and window treatments. Ottawa Regional Hospital Auxiliary “Walk 3 Miles for a Healthy Heart” nets $1,558. Respiratory Care Department receives Quality Respiratory Care Program award from the American Association for Respiratory care for the seventh consecutive year. On February 17th, Ottawa Regional closes on property on the Southside of Ottawa owned by Centrue Bank at 401 East McKinley Road. Emergency Department honored by OSF St. Francis Heart Hospital for being among the hospitals in its Heart 7-7-7 Network that have good time for getting patient experiencing a heart attack to the cardiac catherization lab at OSF St Francis in Peoria. Of the hospitals in the network, Ottawa Regional is the farthest away. Hospital begins implementation of Allscripts Electronic Health Records system. Ottawa Regional Foundation purchases CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) ventilators for each of the eight ambulances belonging to Ottawa Regional’s emergency medical services system. Ottawa Regional Hospital becomes a Safe Sitter site. Education staff certified to offer the nationally recognized Safe Sitter program. Ottawa Regional begins utilizing Intellidot Bar Coding patient safety system to ensure right patient, right medication, right site, right time and right dose. Intellidot is featured on Oprah Show with Dr. Oz, Dennis and Kimberly Quaid and medical professionals from Cedar Mt. Sinai Hospital. Dawn Trompeter promoted to Vice President, Finance in March. Ottawa Regional Foundation receives an Aster Award for excellence in medical marketing for its newly-designed brochure, “Seeds of Advancement.” In June, the Adult Day Center received a new patient transportation vehicle. The Chevrolet minivan, which was modified with custom equipment to support special accessibility needs, was purchased with grant money from the Federal Transit Administration and the Illinois Department of Transportation. On July 21st, the hospital breaks ground on its Marseilles Medical Office building. The 4,400 sq. ft. building will house two primary care physicians. In August, the hospital’s Marseilles Medical Office Building while under construction is recognized as a Green Building of America Award-winning project. Hospital’s EMS Coordinator, Rosemary McGinnis receives “Unsung Hero” award from the national Association of Emergency Medical Educators. In September, main entrance with new canopy and upper level of parking deck opens. Upper level of parking deck has 106 spaces. Adult Day Center changes its name to Connections Adult Day Center in September to better reflect its mission of connecting participants with activities in the community. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary hosts “Totally Pink” with nationally recognized breast cancer survivor and speaker Becky Olson. The 400 attendees packed the Ottawa Township High School auditorium. Employees donate 42 food baskets to United Way for families in need during holiday season. In November, the CHOICES outpatient mental health building, while still under construction, is named a Green Building of America Award-winning project. This is the second Green Building of America Award received by Ottawa Regional. Earlier in the year, the hospital’s Marseilles Medical Office Building was also named a Green Building of America Award-winning project. Nuclear Medicine Department at Ottawa Regional Hospital becomes the first in the Illinois Valley to receive a 3-year accreditation in Nuclear Medicine from the American College of Radiology. Dr. Kevin Khater, radiation oncologist and partner with Ottawa Regional Hospital & Healthcare Center in Radiation Oncology of Northern Illinois at the Fox River Cancer Center, is named President of the Board of Regional Directors of the American Cancer Society. In December, lower level of main hospital parking deck opens. The lower level has 80 spaces for a total of 186 parking spaces directly in front of the main hospital. There is also a designated area for physician parking only. On December 31st, closed on a deal to purchase the practice assets of the Ottawa Medical Center, forming a new, for-profit subsidiary of the hospital, Ottawa Regional Medical Center. The new primary group is the largest primary care physician group in LaSalle County.
2010
In January, Ottawa Regional receives full accreditation by the Joint Commission. Ottawa Regional Auxiliary purchases Site-Rite system, to aid in the insertion of IVs and PICC lines. The ultrasound guided system makes intravenous access easier, particularly for patients with small and/or hard to find veins. Six Emergency Department nurses earn emergency trauma care certification. Ottawa Regional contracts with Central Illinois Radiological Associates, a group of 64 radiologists, who will help the hospital expedite and expand its radiology and diagnostic imaging interpretation capabilities. Respiratory Care department receives Quality Respiratory Care Program award for eighth consecutive year from the American Association for Respiratory Care. Dr. Cynthia Cabalfin and Dr. Raul Guerrero join Ottawa Regional Medical Center and move their practice from the 1050 Medical Office Building to the Ottawa Regional Medical Center, 1614 E. Norris Drive.