Dr. Jeffrey Lobel of Lima Memorial Health System uses the Mazor Robot to perform a neurosurgial procedure.
Photo courtesy of Lima Memorial Health System
LIMA — Monday marks 125 years since the founding of Lima City Hospital.
The 13-bed hospital opened in 1899 at the corner of East Market and Scott Streets, now home to Lima Senior High School.
Hospital records show 107 patients were admitted to the hospital during its first year.
A non-private room cost $7 per week, while private rooms went for $10 a week, according to a press release from Lima Memorial Health System.
“We believe that health care should be a local asset and we are proud to serve the Lima community,” Lynn Carpenter, vice president and chief operating officer, said during a press conference on Monday.
Lima City Hospital changed its name to Lima Memorial Hospital on Memorial Day 1933 after voters approved a bond issue to build a larger hospital.
The new hospital, named in honor of Allen County veterans who died in service to the country, was five stories tall with 144 patient beds.
Today, Lima Memorial’s capacity exceeds 300 patient beds.
The health system, which now spans several facilities and is affiliated with Toledo-based ProMedica, invested $30 million in 2019 to build a new medical center in Wapakoneta and make other upgrades at the main campus, including a new outpatient diagnostic center and redesigned inpatient rehabilitation wing.
Perhaps the greatest change in the last century has been in surgical and procedural care thanks to the advent of robotic technologies, Carpenter said.
“It allows our surgeons to deliver the best care: small incisions, great view,” Carpenter said.
The health system is commemorating the 125th anniversary of Lima City Hospital with a 5K run on May 18 and a rededication ceremony after the Memorial Day parade on May 27.
