Caring for Medina: The People Behind Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital
By Charlie Pistone, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- At Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital, patient care goes far beyond treating illnesses. Nurse Manager, Chad Ziegler, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tom Rogers explained the mission is rooted in community involvement, prevention, and supporting both patients and caregivers. Both leaders explained that healthcare is not just about helping people once they arrive at the hospital, but also about improving lives throughout the community. “We want to make sure that patients are having a good experience, but also safe and quality care,” Ziegler said. Rogers also agreed with that message, explaining that prevention is one of the most important parts of healthcare.
From both men, healthcare is about building relationships and supporting the people around them. Ziegler described Medina Hospital as a welcoming place where employees work closely together and care about one another. He explained from the moment he walks into the hospital each morning, coworkers greet each other and create an environment that feels connected and supportive. His daily responsibilities include checking with staff, reviewing safety goals, and speaking directly with patients to ensure they understand their care and medications before leaving the hospital. Rogers, who recently transitioned to a new role, has a past in the military after serving for 29 years. He noticed similarities between military service and community healthcare because both focus on helping people.
The two leaders also spoke about the importance of public health and preventative care outside the hospital walls. Rogers stressed the value of exercise, healthy eating, and regular medical care in helping reduce heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions. Ziegler highlighted programs such as walking paths, safety fairs, and educational outreach events that encourage healthier lifestyles throughout Medina County.
Both Ziegler and Rogers encouraged young people interested in the medical field to volunteer, shadow professionals, and explore the many different paths within the medical field. “You don’t know where you’re going to end up,” Ziegler said, “There’s just so many different ways to grow.”
Charlie Pistone, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Dr. Thomas Rogers, South Submarket Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Cleveland Clinic.