By Sierra Marling, Charleston Gazette-Mail
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — On Tuesday, WVU Medicine celebrated the grand opening of the new Thomas Orthopedic Hospital in downtown Charleston. It was an event that marked the continuation of a century-old health care legacy first established by Saint Francis Hospital.
Originally a 25-bed hospital founded by the Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration, from Williamsville, New York, Saint Francis provided care to Charleston residents since 1913.
This new orthopedic hospital comes at a time when the health care needs of West Virginia’s aging population are increasing.
Dr. Greg Rosencrance, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals, said the decision to open what he called the state’s only comprehensive orthopedic hospital was influenced — in part — by the high incidence of fractures among elderly patients, who often require specialized care.
Tuesday’s event was attended by WVU | Thomas Hospitals leadership, members of the orthopedic team and others, including:
- Albert L. Wright Jr., president and CEO of the WVU Health System
- Gordon Gee, West Virginia University President and WVU Health System Board chairman
- Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., and Joe Manchin, I-W.Va.
- Amy Shuler Goodwin, the mayor of Charleston
According to Rosencrance, this $23 million Phase 1 is just the beginning. Phase 2 will expand office space and physical therapy services.
