OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital

Originally from Argentina, Dr. Bustos developed an interest in rural surgery through his early experiences providing care abroad, where he saw the impact accessible, high-quality surgical services can have on patients and families.

“Van Wert Hospital gives me the unique opportunity to continue that path in combination with advanced surgical technologies that aren’t widely available elsewhere,” Dr. Bustos said. “I am committed to providing patients with exceptional care while allowing them to remain close to their homes, their support systems and their communities.”

Inspired by his father and sister, who are both general surgeons, Dr. Bustos said he was drawn to a career that combines medicine, technology and hands-on skill.

“Watching their commitment and compassion shaped my own path, inspiring me to pursue surgery with the same sense of purpose,” Dr. Bustos said. “Serving patients has become the greatest source of fulfillment for me, and it’s a responsibility I carry with pride every day.”

Dr. Bustos earned his medical degree from Universidad Nacional de Cuyo in Argentina. He completed a research fellowship in minimally invasive and robotic surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and general surgery residency at Saint Louis University.

“We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Bustos to our team and to Van Wert," said Scott Jarvis, MD, associate vice president Clinical Affairs, OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. "His expertise complements the strengths of our surgical team and will be a tremendous asset to the patients and communities we serve.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Bustos enjoys soccer, tennis, computer science, traveling and spending time with his wife and two children.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact OhioHealth Van Wert General Surgery at (419) 238-4909.

• A $500 donation from FOP Lodge 62 will support Paula’s Pantry at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital.
• The hospital’s food pantry provides short-term assistance and essential items to patients experiencing food insecurity.
• Community donations help the hospital connect people with immediate resources while directing community members to additional local food assistance.

A donation from the Van Wert Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 62 will help sustain OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital’s efforts to provide food and other essentials to patients and families in need.

The hospital’s food pantry provides short-term assistance to patients experiencing food insecurity. Hospital staff can connect patients with “Paula’s Pantry” when a need is identified, providing them with food to help meet immediate needs and information about additional resources available in the community.

“We’re fortunate to be part of a community that has always supported us as police officers and retired police officers, and we want to be able to give that support back,” said Bruce Showalter, president of FOP Lodge 62. “We just try to do what we think is right for the community.”

The $500 donation is part of the FOP Lodge 62’s ongoing commitment to supporting local organizations and community initiatives. The FOP also made donations to three other local pantries.

Paula’s Pantry includes a variety of shelf-stable foods that can be used to create simple meals, as well as essential items such as personal hygiene products and infant supplies.

“We know that food insecurity can create additional challenges for patients and families,” said Paula Stabler, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “Support from community partners like FOP Lodge 62 helps us meet people where they are and provide resources that can make a meaningful difference during a difficult time.”

The food pantry is intended for current Van Wert Hospital patients, their families and associates who need assistance. Community members seeking food assistance are encouraged to access other local resources, including the United Way of Van Wert County, Carla’s Cupboard and other community pantries.

“The hospital serves the residents of Van Wert County, and it’s important to us to support that,” Showalter said. “We don’t want to be a community where services are difficult to come by. We hope to continue supporting these efforts in the future whenever we have the opportunity.”

• Weapons-free screening begins Aug. 3 at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital to support a safe, secure environment for all who enter.
• Patients and visitors will enter through entrances #1 or #2 and complete a brief screening, including metal detectors and bag checks.
• Emergency care remains the highest priority, and screening is designed to minimize delays.

Beginning Monday Aug. 3, 2026, OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital will implement weapons-free screening at designated public entrances as part of a systemwide effort to support a safe, secure environment across OhioHealth care sites. While weapons have long been prohibited at OhioHealth facilities, screening helps reinforce that policy at the point of entry. 

Healthcare organizations across the country are facing increased safety challenges. In response to these evolving risks, OhioHealth continues to evaluate and enhance security measures to help maintain safe environments for care and healing. 

"Everyone who walks through our doors deserves to feel safe," said Chris Blaney, director, OhioHealth Protective Services. "As violence in healthcare settings continues to rise nationwide, we're taking proactive steps to better protect our patients, visitors, associates and providers. Weapons-free screening is one way we're helping create a safer environment while ensuring our communities continue to have access to the care they need close to home." 

Beginning Aug. 3, patients and visitors can expect: 

• Screening at designated entrances, including metal detectors, bag and purse checks, and support from OhioHealth Protective Services officers, with a process designed to minimize delays.
• Entry through Door #1 or Door #2 only:
  • Door #1: Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Door #2: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • Patients who receive cardiac rehabilitation may continue to use Door #6 and will be contacted with additional information.
• Around-the-clock onsite coverage by OhioHealth Protective Services officers.
• Emergency treatment and life-saving care to remain the hospital's highest priority at all times. 

Van Wert Hospital is working closely with local emergency medical services and other partners to support the implementation of the new screening process. Beginning Sept. 1, all OhioHealth associates entering the hospital will also participate in weapons-free screening. 

"At OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, maintaining a safe, welcoming environment is central to our responsibility to the community," said Paula Stabler, president, OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. "Weapons-free screening reflects our ongoing commitment to providing a safe place for those who come here for care and those who provide it." 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services awarded OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital a 5-star overall hospital quality rating for 2026
• The hospital is among 384 hospitals nationwide and 18 in Ohio to receive the 5-star designation
• Van Wert Hospital also earned a separate 5-star rating for cleanliness

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital has earned a 5-star overall hospital quality rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for 2026, the highest rating possible through the program.

The CMS Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings are designed to help patients and families compare hospitals based on measures tied to quality and safety. The 2026 ratings evaluate hospitals across five categories, including mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care.

“These recognitions come from the dedication our teams bring to patients every day,” said Paula Stabler, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “We are deeply committed to caring for patients like family, and we’re proud to provide the kind of high-quality care our community deserves close to home.”

Van Wert Hospital was among 384 hospitals nationwide and 18 in Ohio to receive a 5-star rating this year. The hospital also received a 5-star rating for cleanliness based on patient survey responses.

“We are committed to providing a clean, safe environment to all of our patients, visitors and associates,” said Paul Bohner, manager of Environmental Services at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “This would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the entire environmental services team.”

CMS star ratings are based on publicly reported hospital performance data collected by the federal government. The methodology is intended to provide consumers with a simplified overall summary of hospital quality performance.

These recognitions add to a growing list of national honors for Van Wert Hospital, including being named earlier this year among the nation’s Top 20 Rural and Community Hospitals by the National Rural Health Association.

The full list of 2026 CMS 5-star quality hospitals is available here. The list of hospitals receiving 5-star cleanliness ratings is available here.

The drive is designed to help ensure local residents have access to nutritious food. Volunteers from all three organizations will work together to distribute food and essential supplies to families in need.
 

The organizations host several drives throughout the year, with many events providing several tons of food to hundreds of families in just a few short hours.
 

“Supporting access to healthy food is an important part of improving health in our community,” said Paula Stabler, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “It’s through collaboration like this that we can help put food on the table for local families who need it most.”

Van Wert Hospital is the only hospital in Ohio to receive this distinction.

The designation is based on an evaluation conducted by The Chartis Center for Rural Health using the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX, a comprehensive and objective assessment of rural prospective payment system (PPS) hospital performance across the United States.

The Top 20 Rural and Community Hospitals represent the highest performers among the hospitals named to the Top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals list. Hospitals were assessed across eight pillars of performance:

• Inpatient Market Share
• Outpatient Market Share
• Quality
• Outcomes
• Patient Perspective
• Cost
• Charge
• Finance

“This recognition reflects the incredible work of our entire team,” said Paula Stabler, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “Our focus has always been on serving our patients and community with compassion and excellence, and I’m proud that our efforts are being acknowledged on a national level.”

An official recognition by the National Rural Healthcare Association will take place at its annual rural health conference in May.

To view the full list of recipients, click here.

To learn more about OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital's services and programs, click here. 

About the National Rural Health Association

The National Rural Health Association is a national nonprofit membership organization with more than 20,000 members. The association provides leadership on rural health issues through advocacy, communications, education and research and works to improve the health and wellbeing of rural Americans.

About the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX

The Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX uses publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to compare rural and Critical Access Hospitals across market, value-based and financial performance indicators. The INDEX evaluates 36 indicators across eight pillars to provide a comprehensive view of rural hospital performance and serves as the foundation for many of rural healthcare’s most prominent awards.

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital has reached a major milestone, performing more than 1,000 robotic-assisted surgeries since launching the program in 2020. This milestone marks years of local patients choosing robotic surgery with surgeons they know and trust.

“We’ve had the robot for five years now,” said Thomas Conte, MD, Van Wert Hospital chief of surgery. “As a rural facility, we’re on the cutting edge. It gives patients access to relatively new technology without having to travel to a larger center.”

Since the program began, Van Wert Hospital surgeons have expanded how robotic-assisted surgery is used, performing everything from appendectomies to colon resections using minimally invasive techniques. They operate the da Vinci® Surgical System, which replicates their hand movements with robotic precision.

“We each have hundreds of cases under our belt,” Dr. Conte said. “That experience matters. It builds confidence for patients and helps everything run smoothly in the operating room. This is very much a team effort. Nurses and everyone in the OR play a role in that success.”

Van Wert Hospital surgeon Jeremy Stoller, MD, said reaching 1,000 cases is a proud moment for the team.

"Hitting this milestone is reflective of the fact that we have transitioned completely to using robotic surgery for any minimally invasive hernia and abdominal surgery,” he said. “In the past, some surgeries required large incisions. Now we can do more procedures through small incisions, which means faster recovery and less post-surgical pain.”

Patient Richard Hines turned to robotic surgery to receive advanced care without the added stress of traveling far from home. When diverticulitis sent him to the emergency room multiple times, surgery became necessary.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect,” Hines said. “But after talking with Dr. Conte, I felt completely comfortable. He explained how the robot works and how it would help during the surgery. That made a big difference going in.”

Recovery turned out to be much easier than he anticipated. Pain was minimal, and within a couple of days, he didn’t need any medication. Being able to recover close to home added to the comfort. His wife could visit easily, and there was no need to travel back and forth.

“I was actually a little bummed when they told me I was being discharged,” Hines said. “I had such great care.”

Robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly used as an alternative to traditional open surgery and standard laparoscopic procedures. The system provides surgeons with a clearer, three-dimensional view and precise control, helping them work in areas that may be difficult to reach with other instruments.

“Our techniques and training are the same as any other bigger hospital with regard to the robotic platform,” Dr. Stoller said. “I think for our hospital and community, that is a big deal. Patients can trust in what we do, that our goal for every single patient is to offer standard of care robotic surgery." 

To learn more about robotic-assisted surgery at OhioHealth, click here.

OhioHealth is proud to announce that Tom Lyons, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, has earned the CCI Anesthesia CRNA of the Year award. This national award recognizes his outstanding contributions to patient care, clinical excellence, and leadership within the anesthesia field. 

The CCI Anesthesia CRNA of the Year award is given to a CRNA who demonstrates exceptional skill, compassion, and dedication to their practice. Lyons was selected for his unwavering commitment to patient safety and his collaborative spirit, which have made a significant impact on both his patients and colleagues at Van Wert Hospital. His ability to provide high-quality care in a community hospital setting exemplifies the values of both OhioHealth and CCI Anesthesia. 

"Receiving this award is a tremendous honor, and it’s truly a reflection of the incredible team I work with every day at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital," said Tom Lyons. "To be recognized by an organization like CCI Anesthesia is humbling. I am passionate about providing the best possible care to our community, and this award inspires me to continue striving for excellence in everything I do for our patients." 

The recognition highlights the strong partnership between OhioHealth and CCI Anesthesia, which focuses on delivering superior anesthesia services and enhancing operational efficiency in healthcare settings. This collaboration ensures that communities like Van Wert have access to top-tier medical professionals and patient-centered care. 

"We are incredibly proud of Tom and this well-deserved national recognition," said Paula Stabler, President of Van Wert Hospital. "His dedication to our patients and his expertise as a CRNA are invaluable to our hospital and the community we serve. Tom’s commitment to compassionate, high-quality care embodies the spirit of OhioHealth, and we are thrilled to celebrate this significant achievement with him." 
 

More than 30 years ago, Stabler was looking for a way to stay active and have fun. That’s when she discovered an adult class at Kim Hohman’s DanceWorks in Van Wert and decided to give it a try. That decision sparked a hobby that would span decades.

She joined adult hip hop and jazz classes, learning choreography, rehearsing with her peers and even competing.

“I just enjoy moving,” Stabler said. “I love music, and I’ve always been into music and dance. Even when my boys were younger, we would just listen to music and dance around the house.”

Dance quickly became a family affair. Her oldest son started at the same studio when he was just three years old. Stabler kept dancing alongside him, and together they built memories on and off stage. By the time he graduated high school, they had both earned trophies for participating in 15 years of classes.

Stabler’s love of dance even shaped major family milestones. At her wedding, she and her husband surprised guests with a flash mob that transitioned from a slow ballad to a hip hop routine. Their wedding party joined in, and the celebration ended with a dance-off between the men and women.

“It was so much fun,” Stabler said laughing. “No one saw it coming. We just went for it and had the best time.”

The tradition carried into the next generation at her son’s wedding, this time surprising the guests with a mother-son routine. The choreography was created by fellow Van Wert Hospital associate, Administrative Nurse Manager, Chelsey Young, who also happens to be an instructor at Kim Hohman’s.

“We practiced weekly for about four weeks before the wedding,” Stabler said. “We again started out with a slow song and then busted into a hip hop choreographed routine. It was a lot of fun.”

Dance is still part of Stabler’s life, even if she doesn’t perform every week. Her nine-year-old granddaughter now dances at the studio where both Stabler and her son spent countless hours. Her son has become a devoted “prop dad,” helping backstage at competitions and recitals, and he even joins the other fathers for the studio’s annual dads dance.

“It’s come full circle,” Stabler said. “It’s been such a big part of all of our lives. Now it’s my granddaughter’s turn.”

This year marks Kim Hohman’s DanceWorks’ 30th anniversary, and Stabler is tempted to lace up her dancing shoes once again, “If they bring back an alumni dance, I might just go for it one more time.”

That pull is really about what dance has always given her.

“It helps relieve stress. It gets your body moving, it makes you laugh and it brings you together with other people. We’d make ourselves laugh all the time. It’s just the greatest time.”

Secret Lives is an ongoing series that shares the unusual past careers and unique hobbies of OhioHealth associates, physicians and volunteers.

With more than 30 years of experience as women’s health provider, Craig Hanson, MD Obstetrics/Gynecology at OhioHealth Van Wert says from his perspective -- women wait an average of ten years before they seek help for their symptoms of pelvic floor health issues. 

“Pelvic floor disfunction is anything from urinary leakage, to prolapse, to muscle weakness, and urologic disorders,” explains Dr. Hanson. “They can be brought on by back disorders, herniated discs, and just general problems like obesity or poor muscle tone.” 

Pelvic floor disorders are common – at least one in three women will experience one at some point in their lives. 

“A lot of people assume that nothing can be done for this,” Dr. Hanson says. “To help, there are a combination of things. First, physical therapy.” 

Dr. Hanson cautions – there is a lot of misinformation on social media about this topic. The best source to get help or information from is a certified pelvic floor physical therapist. 

“They can help a lot. Especially if you’ve had a nine-pound baby or larger – you may want to consider seeing one sooner rather than later,” Dr. Hanson says. “No matter how you delivered, you can benefit from pelvic floor therapy.” 

Dr. Hanson explains it’s mandatory in Europe for women to receive pelvic floor therapy for the first three months after childbirth. 

Natalie Koester is a physical therapist and the director of rehabilitation services at OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center. She explains it’s important for physical therapists to get to know the patient and knowing their deficits, and building a plan that’s specific for them. She also cautions against relying on information you find online. 

“It’s important to know the source and understand their credibility,” she says. “For specialized therapy, we do years’ worth of training to learn and to learn it really well and then to be able to provide patients the best care.” 

The OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center provides additional rehab services -- beyond those seeking help for pelvic floor disorders. To learn more visit: Rehabilitation Services | OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center. 
 

“This is the same advanced technology used at larger OhioHealth facilities in Columbus,” said Paula Stabler, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “Now, patients in our community can receive the same high-quality care close to home, ensuring they remain comfortable with providers they know and trust.” 

Philips EPIQ CVx is a premium cardiovascular ultrasound system offering numerous powerful FDA-cleared AI applications and advanced diagnostic solutions. This technology shortens the time it takes to perform and interpret an exam [1-5], while improving accuracy and reproducibility [1,5,6,7]. It also enhances resolution and streamlines workflows while elevating quality and clarity to boost clinical confidence [8] in treating patients with conditions including pulmonary hypertension, congenital heart disease, coronary disease and heart failure. 

“The introduction of 3D imaging is a significant upgrade,” said Taylor Dahlinghaus, manager of Radiology Support Services at Van Wert Hospital. “We’ve always provided echocardiography services, but this new technology improves image clarity and allows us to see detailed views of the heart like never before.” 

“As the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and other conditions continues to rise, early diagnosis and effective treatment are more critical than ever,” said David Handler, general manager of cardiac ultrasound at Philips. “Leveraging automation and AI-based technologies that make echo exams easier, faster and more reproducible, clinicians at OhioHealth Van Wert can effectively and efficiently treat routine and complex cardiac issues, advancing patient care and improving outcomes.” 

# # # 

_{[1] The Auto Measure feature can reduce the quantification time by 51%. VM9 claims document 270472 A. 
[2] The AutoSTRAIN application utilizes two automation technologies: Auto View Recognition and Auto Contour Placement. While the implementation of these automation tools drives simple, fast workflow for robust and reproducible GLS measurements, the user retains the ability to edit and override the automation to facilitate good clinical practice. AutoSTRAIN – automated global longitudinal strain (GLS) measurement, Verena Roediger, PhD. PM, TOMTEC/Philips White Paper. Printed in The Netherlands. 4522 991 45791 * FEB 2019. 
[3] After performing 10 echo exams with the Compact 5500 system there was 80% agreement that the AutoStrain LV application was fast and easy to use. 275264C_Protego Claims List for Marketing Communications and 277399 Protego User Preference 
[4] Reduce your 2D diagnostic echo exam time by 20% by incorporating Philips automated solutions into your everyday echo. 270472_VMQ9.0 Claims Evidence Report 
[5] HeartModel study (4522 991 17141 * MAY 2016) by Dr. Roberto Lang: Automated transthoracic three-dimensional echocardiographic quantification of the left heart chambers 
[6] Conclusion: RT3DE yields accurate and reproducible RV volumes. The calculated percentile curves may facilitate the clinical use of RT3DE to analyze RV function in children. This study done with Philips 3D AutoRV. Laser, K. T., et al. (2018). “Validation and Reference Values for Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Right Ventricular Volumetry in Children: A Multicenter Study.” J Am Soc Echocardiogr 31(9): 1050-1063. 
[7] Henry MP, et al., Three-Dimensional Transthoracic Static and Dynamic Normative Values of the Mitral Valve Apparatus: Results from the Multicenter World Alliance Societies of Echocardiography Study. J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2022 Jul;35(7):738-751.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.echo.2022.02.010. Epub 2022 Mar 1. PMID: 35245668; PMCID: PMC10257802. 
[8] TrueVue and the OLED monitor. Based on responses from 38 respondents. Jungen et al., PLoS One 2015 Oct 14;10(10); Left Atrial Appendage Closure Guided by Integrated Echocardiography and Fluoroscopy Imaging Reduces Radiation Exposure.} 
 

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital President, Joy Biscoff, has been named Vice President of Enterprise Shared Services for the OhioHealth system. In her new role, Joy will oversee Laboratory Services, Food and Nutrition Services, Patient Support Services (EVS, parking, patient transport, language services), Rehabilitation, Ambulatory Imaging and Pharmacy for the entire OhioHealth system. 

Bischoff was named president of OhioHealth Van Wert hospital in 2023. Until recently, she had also served as OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital’s president since 2021. In these roles, Bischoff made a lasting impact in the community in several ways. For example, her dedication to cultivating strong relationships with community partners led to a monthly food distribution event in Kenton with the West Ohio Food Bank, and a $100,000 OhioHealth commitment to the YWCA of Van Wert County. 

At Van Wert Hospital, Bischoff led the team in achieving significant financial improvement in fiscal year ’24. She also provided guidance through the hospital’s integration process, increased transparency with the community by launching a series of community leader luncheons, and developed a strategic plan focused on driving ambulatory growth which included securing an investment in the pharmacy department worth $3.1 million. 

“I’m proud of the work of our team in Van Wert and I am excited to see our continued growth in services as we strive to provide high quality care close to home,” Bischoff said. “I look forward to this next chapter in my career as I take on a new challenge and role within OhioHealth.” 

Until a new president is named, Chris Clinton, Regional Market President, will be providing support to the Van Wert Hospital executive team. 

The YWCA serves hundreds of people in Van Wert and the surrounding counties, providing services such as survivor support for domestic violence and sexual assault, youth development programs and advocacy and education. However, the aging infrastructure has increasingly struggled to meet the needs of those it serves.

“It’s a cause that’s close to my heart,” said Paula Stabler, chief nursing officer at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “Not only do a I serve on the YWCA of Van Wert County board of directors, I also see the positive impact it has on our community first-hand. OhioHealth is excited to celebrate the expansion of our partnership with the YWCA.”

The new YWCA facility aims to provide modern amenities and improved living conditions for residents. Currently, residents share restrooms and kitchen areas, but the new building will feature private studio apartments and two-bedroom units, each with its own bathroom and kitchenette. 

"Our biggest excitement is that it's going to be offering more dignified living spaces for our residents,” Kimberly Laudick, president and CEO of YWCA Van Wert County, told WLIO. “Which may not always seem like a lot, but that is a huge step forward for these victims and survivors to heal with the trauma that they are facing. Just that minor little thing that we sometimes take for granted.”

The YWCA of Van Wert hopes to break ground on the new facility in May 2026, paving the way for enhanced support services and a more welcoming environment for everyone in need.

"I'm super proud of OhioHealth and their commitment to the Van Wert community,” said Joy Bischoff, president of Van Wert Hospital. “I'm happy to be a part of this in Van Wert. The YWCA does just amazing things for this community, for women, for children and I feel blessed to be a part of it.”

To learn more about community support at OhioHealth, click here.

To learn more about YWCA of Van Wert, click here.

OhioHealth family medicine resident, Cody Klinker, MD, has won the American Academy of Family Physicians’ (AAFP) Award for Excellence in Graduate Medical Education. Dr. Klinker is a native of Van Wert, Ohio and looks forward to returning home to serve patients in his community. 

According to AAFP, Dr. Klinker’s performance during residency training has ranked him among the top family medicine residents in the country. This award recognizes outstanding medicine residents for their leadership, civic involvement, exemplary patient care, and aptitude for and interest in the specialty. 

“It’s gratifying. This proves that all the work I put in is worth it,” Dr. Klinker said. “I want to be the best family medicine physician for my patients and the communities I serve.” 

In June 2025, Dr. Klinker will complete his residency with the OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital Family Medicine Program. He will begin practicing at OhioHealth Van Wert Medical Offices in August of 2025. 

“We are proud of Dr. Klinker, and we are excited to know he will be joining our team to provide patients the highest-level of care close to home,” said Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. 

Dr. Klinker was born at Van Wert Hospital and grew up in Van Wert County. He graduated from Crestview High School and went on to attend Ohio State University for undergrad and then University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences for medical school. 

“I always knew I wanted to be a family medicine doctor,” Dr. Klinker said. “I also always knew I wanted to return to home to Van Wert.” 

Looking to the future, Dr. Klinker hopes to practice full spectrum primary care for patients of all ages while also serving as a mentor for medical students. His interests also include sports medicine.
 

The initiative provided over 8 tons of food to more than 200 families in just two hours. 

"I think you're in awe the whole time,” Paula Stabler, chief nursing officer at Van Wert Hospital, told WLIO. “You don't really realize how many people need assistance, so just to see the cars lined up even an hour before we started here—to get that was just overwhelming, like it just fills your cup knowing that you were able to serve people in the community.”

Volunteers shared how rewarding it felt to give back to the community. Some like Verna Gillette, who used to rely on the pantry herself, found new meaning by helping others. She remembers standing in line to receive food and feeling a calling. 

“Ever since, I've been helping out here and I help inside at the food bank, and it has brought a purpose to my life,” Gillette told WLIO.

The next food drive is scheduled for August 27, 2024, from noon to 2 p.m. at Trinity Friends Church, located at 605 N Franklin St, Van Wert, OH 45891.

For those interested in volunteering, please contact James.Whitaker@OhioHealth.com or Kimberly.Everhart@OhioHealth.com. 

The restoration project was completed thanks to the collaborative efforts of Historic Main Street Van Wert and generous donors, including a key $6,000 contribution from OhioHealth. This donation, made in April, provided the final push needed to complete the project.

“OhioHealth has been in the Van Wert community just for a year, so when I first came into my position as the president, we really started to hear about the revitalization of downtown and figured how can we get involved,” Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert and OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospitals, told WANE 15.

The clock has been a staple of the city since its installation in the early 20th century. The recent restoration included repairs to the clock face, stained glass and chimes, along with updates to the clock's base and new LED lighting with color-changing capabilities for special occasions.

“When OhioHealth was approached about funding for the renovation for this clock, we were very excited to be part of the iconic piece of Van Wert history,” Bischoff shared with LimaOhio.com.

The clock's restoration is part of a larger $100 million downtown revitalization initiative that includes refurbishing 11 buildings, following the successful completion of 13 in an earlier phase. This ambitious project aims to attract new businesses, including boutiques and restaurants.

“Bringing this downtown back to life is important for that community pride and really just to help us grow here in Van Wert,” Bischoff said. “Revitalizing the downtown, getting foot traffic down here and drawing people in to be in Van Wert where they can have everything they need right here.”

The century-old clock will continue its role as a historic landmark for years to come. As of July 30, the clock is up and running smoothly.

To learn more about OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, click here.

Preparations are underway for the first event that will take place Tuesday July 23rd. OhioHealth leaders and associates will be volunteering alongside volunteers from United Way of Van Wert County and the West Ohio Food Bank to help distribute food and supplies. 

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital president, Joy Bischoff, said it’s imperative to come together to fight food insecurity for our community. 

“We know sadly food insecurity is a significant issue in rural and urban areas,” Bischoff said. “However, we have the dedication and commitment to help curb hunger in our communities.” 

The food drives are happening July 23rd and August 27th from noon to 2 p.m. at Trinity Friends Church at 605 N. Franklin Street, Van Wert. 

This isn’t the first time OhioHealth has teamed up with the West Ohio Food Bank to help end hunger. This year, the organizations kicked off a series of monthly food distribution events in Kenton, Ohio. In its first six months, the event has helped thousands of people, including 1,508 families, living in Hardin County. 

“At OhioHealth it is our mission to improve the health of those we serve, and that starts with making sure our neighbors can provide healthy meals for themselves and their families,” Bischoff said.

Volunteers are vital to the hospital by helping with various tasks which could include greeting patients, helping patients and visitors navigate the hospital, wheelchair assistance, and re-stocking supplies. 

“Volunteering gives people the opportunity to help make a difference in people’s lives and is a great way to give back to our community,” said Emily Lichtenberger from OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital’s volunteer services. “We’ve seen that it’s especially rewarding for our older volunteers because it provides a purpose, sense of fulfillment, and an opportunity to connect with others.” 

Interested volunteers will go through training as part of an on-boarding process and can expect a time commitment of serving 2-4 hours a week. 

Van Wert hospital is currently looking to add to its team of volunteers. For more information or to sign up reach out to Emily Lichtenberger by e-mail at Emily.Lichtenberger@ohiohealth.com. 
 

OhioHealth acquired Van Wert Hospital in March 2023. A lot has changed since then. 

One of the significant changes over the last year at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital was the launch of a new medical record system – streamlining the communication process between patients and their providers thanks to a $12 million investment. 

Van Wert Hospital has also expanded the use of minimally invasive, robotic assisted surgeries. Providing cutting-edge technology for a rural area has been described as a “game changer” by the hospital’s chief of surgery, Thomas Conte, MD. 

Other positive changes included the increase of starting pay for hospital associates from $14 to $16 per hour and the launch of a new meal service, Market Express, giving associates 24/7 access to salads, sandwiches, and more. 

As one of OhioHealth’s 15 hospitals, Van Wert Hospital launched an eICU and joined the system’s Stroke Network, adding layers of expertise, safety, and proactive care. 

“For more than a year now, we’ve been able to make a positive impact in the Van Wert community, and we are excited for the future,” said Joy Bischoff, president of Van Wert Hospital. “We are thrilled to be able to provide high-level care close to come for our neighbors. We benefit from the backing of a large system, so we have the financial stewardship to continue to provide this care for years to come.” 

Peggy Chaney, a recent patient at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, said she was amazed by the care and attention she received from hospital associates. Chaney said she wanted to make sure her story was “shouted from the rooftops.” 

"Here is what amazes me,” Chaney explained. “Every person I encountered since I came here the other day, no matter what color uniform they were wearing or what position they held, each one was willing to do something to help me even if it really wasn't their job. I have never seen compassion and empathy like this before.” 

“Kudos to everyone who made this a great experience for her,” said Kristy Mueller, RN, administrative nurse manager at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “I hope sharing this helps everyone recognize the good things our teams are doing for our patients.” 
 

Located on the corner of Main and Washington Streets, the clock is an iconic piece of local history. In 2023, Main Street Van Wert set out to raise $60,000 to fund the clock restoration and now, OhioHealth has helped the non-profit meet that goal. 

“I am honored to announce our enthusiastic support and funding for the renovations of the historic clock, symbolizing our commitment to preserving Van Wert's rich heritage," said Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “This collaboration between OhioHealth and the Van Wert community exemplifies our dedication to both preserving the past and building for the future.”

OhioHealth acquired Van Wert Hospital in March of 2023, one year ago, with the goal of becoming integrated into the community. 

“We appreciate OhioHealth for closing the gap on the fundraising efforts. We got through the finish line, and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Mitch Price, director of Main Street Van Wert. 

The clock was manufactured by the OB McClintock Clock Company out of Minneapolis, Minnesota which operated from 1917 – 1949. The clock has a detailed design which includes stained glass dials and copper cladding for the body of the clock. 

It will serve as a centerpiece with more than 50 buildings slated to be renovated in historic downtown Van Wert which include restaurants, shops, apartments, and offices. In total, the entire project has an estimated price tag of $100 million. 

There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony in June. Details will be announced at a later date.
 

Before the launch of CareConnect, patients were already using MyChart for results and messaging the providers, but they were not able to use it to schedule appointments or pay on accounts. This new system will allow patients to schedule appointments, see a provider virtually, and pay their medical bills all in one place. 

“The launch of CareConnect was part of the $12 million investment OhioHealth has committed to providing safe, effective care for our community, identifying patients who require screening and preventive care, improved treatment, diagnosis, decreased errors, and flexibility related to patient care,” said Paula Stabler, Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Director of Patient Care Services. 

OhioHealth MyChart is a free, simple, secure, and convenient way for patients to manage their healthcare. MyChart can be accessed online at mychart.ohiohealth.com or via the OhioHealth app https://mychart.ohiohealth.com/MyChart/. Patients still have the option of requesting medical records in-person at hospital registration. 

Van Wert Hospital is the latest of OhioHealth’s 15 hospitals to move to CareConnect, creating an integrated system. 
 

Market Express is cashless, meaning orders are paid for using credit cards at self-checkout stations or through Sodexo’s Everyday app. 

To learn more about Sodexo’s Everyday App, click here. 
 

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital announced today it has raised its minimum wage for hospital associates from $14 per hour to $16 per hour. That change took effect Sunday March 17, 2024. 

This is part of a larger mission for OhioHealth to invest more than $1 million towards associates’ compensation and benefits. 
The plan also includes the process of comparing pay ranges to market data for jobs across Van Wert Hospital and Van Wert Physicians Group. This will be done in phases over the next six months. 
 

“The talent of our associates is our greatest asset,” said Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “We are committed to maintaining fair, equitable and consistent pay administration practices. OhioHealth’s compensation philosophy supports the goal to attract, motivate and retain associates using market-based pay ranges and practices that reward performance and development.” 
 

Approximately 100 Van Wert Hospital associates will benefit from the new starting pay rate. 
 

For more information about Van Wert Hospital and healthcare services offered, click here. 
 

The robotic-assisted surgery program at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital is expanding in use and breadth of services, giving patients more options for minimally invasive procedures. “I think it’s a game changer,” said Dr. Thomas Conte, the hospital’s chief of surgery. “I think people should feel blessed that we have this cutting-edge technology in a rural area.

“We’re creating the same standard of care at home as you would in a larger city,” said Dr. Craig Hanson, who also performs robotic surgeries at Van Wert.

Since December 2020, OhioHealth physicians have performed more than 800 operations using the da Vinci® Surgical System to treat a wide of array of conditions, including perforated stomach ulcers and colons, hernias and gallbladder disease. Other surgical services include bladder repairs as well as treatment of endometriosis and other urogynecological problems; additional growth has been seen in prostate surgery and the treatment of acid reflux disease. 

Robotic-assisted surgery is being used increasingly as an alternative to traditional open and other minimally invasive surgeries, such as laparoscopies. Robotic technology gives surgeons an enhanced and magnified view inside the patient’s body and provides them with a set of surgical “hands” that can move and maneuver more precisely than human ones.

However, a human being, not the robot, is 100 percent in control. “The robot doesn’t perform the surgery, it replicates my hand movements. It allows me to get in spaces I couldn’t otherwise access,” Dr. Conte said. “The robot is an additional tool we can use to help the patient.”

Dr. Hanson said the robotic system’s three-dimensional, panoramic imaging capability provides a much clearer view than laparoscopy. “It’s kind of like the difference between an old black-and-white TV and the latest generation HDTV, where you can see every blade of grass on the football field. It makes you a much more precise surgeon.”

Compared to traditional surgery, robotic procedures shorten healing time, allowing patients to get back to normal more quickly. “I’ve had patients tell me, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t feel this good,’ Dr. Hanson said. Less pain means reduced need for narcotics, and the risk of blood loss and infection also is lower.

“This reaps tremendous benefits for the patient,” said Dr. Conte. Robotic surgery isn’t always the better option, but when used appropriately, it can make a significant difference for both patients and their families and caregivers, he said.

At a recent meeting of the American College of Surgeons, about 40 percent of attendees responded yes when asked how many had 24/7 access to a robotic surgery system, Dr. Conte said.

“Little Van Wert is at least as good as half the places in the country, and better than the majority. For many things, small-town hospitals can do things at least as well or better than hospitals in large cities, and with more empathy. When you’re in a rural area, you want that personal touch,” said Dr. Conte.

The robotic surgery system at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital was made possible by a gift from area philanthropists Bruce and Julie Kennedy.

After 44 years of caring for patients he’s come to know and love, family medicine specialist Dr. Jerry Sell is stepping away from the practice he has cultivated in his rural hometown.

Dr. Sell, 76, a family medicine physician with OhioHealth, says the decision to retire at the end of the year was a difficult one. “It’s been my life work, my entire life.” A native of Rockford, Dr. Sell has been treating patients in the Rockford and Van Wert areas since 1979.

The day he opened his doors that July, Dr. Sell had 33 new patient appointments at the office.  In addition, “I had thirty-five pregnant ladies waiting for me to come to town. Some were overdue,” following the departure of the previous physician, he said. “I think my office staff wanted to run away.”

Dr. Sell hit the ground running, building the practice and honing his skills so he could provide the most comprehensive care possible, which came to include setting fractures, performing colonoscopies, treating skin cancer patients and delivering babies by Caesarean section. On the other end of the reproductive spectrum, “I’ve done almost all the vasectomies in the area.”

For the first 12 ½ years, Dr. Sell was the only physician in the practice. “I was never home,” he said. His wife, Connie, became not only his office manager but a member of an extended family of co-workers and patients. “We had a dedication to patients that helped develop continuity of care,” Mrs. Sell said. “We followed up with patients to make sure they picked up their prescriptions and that they were taking their medicine. If an elderly patient missed an appointment, we’d call their family.”

The couple, who have been married 57 years, met at Rockford High School and married in May 1967. A month later, Dr. Sell was drafted and went on to serve four years with the U.S. Army as a preventive medicine instructor at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, where he earned an Army Commendation Medal.

Dr. Sell came home to earn his medical degree from The Ohio State University School of Medicine and completed his residency in family medicine art St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Dayton.

His academic performance gave him his pick of specialties and practice locations, but he chose family medicine and his hometown of Rockford to make the most impact. “I felt like I needed to come back. I had made that commitment. Family medicine was the most urgently needed,” he said. “Having a good family medicine physician is the key to getting the best care.”

Personal care has extended to the financial side. Instead of sending patients to a financial services office, “If you can’t afford care, just let us know and we’ll give it to you,” said Dr. Sell, who also made house calls and still does on a limited basis for patients unable to come to the office.

That’s not to say Dr. Sell has practiced medicine of a bygone era. His office was an early adopter of electronic medical records and was the first in the state to use electronic prescriptions, he said. “We had to wait on the state to write the rules.”

The practice eventually grew to three physicians, a nurse practitioner and 24 employees, many of whom were cross trained. Dr. Sell and his partners saw as many as 150 patients a day, but despite the busy schedule, he said, “we treated all the patients and staff like family.”

Longtime friend and colleague Dr. Thomas Conte said attempting to fill Sell’s shoes is a daunting task. “He’s an amazing physician and has such a wide spectrum of skills. I cannot think of enough words that are sufficient to describe how wonderful he is as a person and a physician.”

Dr. Conte recalls an event held several years ago to celebrate Dr. Sell’s career when he cut back his schedule. A woman attended with her 40-year-old son, whom Dr. Sell had treated as an infant. “He’s had a huge impact, and the community is going to feel it,” said Dr. Conte, chief of surgery at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “He very much deserves his retirement, but it will be a great loss to the community and the hospital.”

Dr. Sell and his wife look forward to more travel and spending time with family. Reflecting on his decades-long career he says, “Over time, you come to know your patients and even love your patients. It’s been a very rewarding practice, it’s been a lot of fun, and patients have appreciated it.”

 About OhioHealth   

Based in Columbus, Ohio, OhioHealth is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit, charitable, healthcare outreach of the United Methodist Church.   

Serving its communities since 1891, OhioHealth is a family of 35,000 associates, physicians and volunteers, and a network of 15 hospitals, three joint-venture hospitals, one managed-affiliate hospital, 200+ ambulatory sites and other health services spanning a 50-county area. For more information, visit ohiohealth.com. 

The hospital will continue to provide gynecologic procedures, such as hysterectomies or endometrial ablation. Women, who typically chose to deliver at Van Wert Hospital, can deliver at other area hospitals.

“Changes such as this are never an easy decision to make. As we look at the continued trends in labor and delivery, we want to make sure the highest quality resources and support are available for our obstetric and newborn patients,” said Joy Bischoff, president of Van Wert Hospital. “This higher level of support and care is not typically provided by most community hospitals. Across the nation, less babies are being delivered in rural and suburban hospitals.”

Van Wert Hospital will continue to meet the healthcare needs of Van Wert and its surrounding communities. Van Wert Hospital emergency department will be prepared if a laboring patient arrives to the hospital, or an emergent delivery is needed.

The Van Wert Women’s Health practice, located at 140 Fox Road, and adjacent to Van Wert Hospital, will continue to provide pre-natal and post-natal care, in addition to the gynecologic care. The practice will continue gynecologic procedures at Van Wert Hospital.

About OhioHealth  

Based in Columbus, Ohio, OhioHealth is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit, charitable, healthcare outreach of the United Methodist Church.   

Serving its communities since 1891, OhioHealth is a family of 35,000 associates, physicians and volunteers, and a network of 14 hospitals, three joint-venture hospitals, one managed-affiliate hospital, 200+ ambulatory sites and other health services spanning a 50-county area. It has been recognized by FORTUNE as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” 15 times since 2007.

For more information, visit ohiohealth.com. 

“Growth is a very important part of our strategic plan, its necessary to help defray some of the expenses that healthcare systems have to bear,” Steve Markovich, OhioHealth CEO said.   “But, most importantly, a chance to offer great quality care, in all communities we serve.”

The newest associates were greeted with a hero’s welcome. That’s exactly what these teams have been throughout years of a global pandemic, and throughout a storied history dating back decades.

“The most important thing is culture,” Markovich said. “When we talk about culture its two things, how do they embrace mission, and take care of their people, you can’t do the mission without the people.”

And the newest chapter includes a large, established health system in OhioHealth. And the teams can’t wait to get started.

“They have been excited, I think they can’t wait for the resources we will have now that helps keep great care, and keep our patients local,” Leslie Beining, Assistant Chief Nursing Officer said.

For Joy Bischoff, the interim president at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, she leads a team that has always done great work, but now has backing for growth, and for resources.

“It’s important to have the backing and resources of a large system, we have the financial stewardship to keep services in Van Wert for years to come,” Bischoff said.

It’s that commitment that has OhioHealth CEO Steve Markovich confident this will not only work but will take care to the next level in this community.

“We’ve done this before, have great experience, and our commitment to keep care local will make the difference,” Markovich said.