OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital Debuts New Operating Rooms as Part of $17 Million Renovation Project
OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital has reached a major milestone in its $17.2 million renovation of surgical services, opening two newly constructed operating rooms and modernized support spaces as part of the project’s first phase. The upgrades are already in use, with the first surgery in one of the new suites performed on July 22.
The overall renovation, which will unfold in multiple phases, is designed to enhance safety, streamline workflow and support advanced surgical procedures now and in the future. Phase 1 includes two of three planned operating rooms and updated spaces that improve how surgical teams prepare and deliver care.
“These are modern, thoughtfully designed spaces that reflect how far we’ve come in our surgical care,” said Ressa Hutchison, surgery manager at O’Bleness Hospital. “Our teams have more space to move, advanced technology to support them and a more comfortable, efficient environment to care for patients.”
Each suite features state-of-the-art Steris surgical LED lighting with shadow-reducing sensors, integrated with a Steris CleanSuite airflow system that helps maintain a sterile environment. Many of the surgical room systems, including lighting, airflow and equipment settings, can be controlled remotely from a high-tech nurse’s station. Staff say this gives them greater flexibility and helps streamline workflow throughout the day.
“This kind of remote functionality allows us to focus more on the patient and less on managing the room,” Hutchison said. “It’s a big step forward for efficiency and safety.”
Additional amenities, such as blanket warmers in every room, may seem small, but staff say they help create a more calming and supportive environment for patients as they prepare for surgery.
According to Hutchison, the newly opened suites are among the most advanced in the region. Future phases of the project will include construction of a third operating room and a dedicated endoscopy suite.
“This project is a major investment in the health of our region,” said LeeAnn Lucas-Helber, president of OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital. “It means patients in Athens and throughout southeast Ohio can receive high-quality surgical care in the most up-to-date environment without needing to travel far from home.”
The hospital performs more than 3,000 surgeries each year. Lucas-Helber says the new spaces will support growth while improving both care quality and provider experience as the project continues. The project is anticipated to reach final completion in early 2026.
