2021: Facing and embracing challenges
Welcome to the 2021 Summa Health Annual Report.
While the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact our organization in 2021, Summa Health’s commitment to innovation and collaboration resulted in the accomplishment of many key initiatives. As illustrated through the compelling stories featured within this annual report, Summa Health came together to face and embrace numerous challenges in an effort to provide ongoing compassionate care to our community.
As some of you may recall, it was not uncommon to have more than 200 – and sometimes close to 300 – COVID patients inside of our facilities during the height of the many surges of 2021. Making the year even more difficult was the ongoing staffing shortage that continues to be felt not only at Summa Health, but at healthcare organizations across the nation.
Despite these challenges in 2021, we progressed in construction on the Akron Campus’ new Juve Family Behavioral Health Pavilion, opened two new ambulatory centers and developed essential COVID-19 community outreach programs. We also updated our technology infrastructure, earned Magnet® redesignation at our Akron and St. Thomas campuses, and received the organization’s largest gift to date from Dr. Gary and Mrs. Pamela Williams.
Looking to 2022, Summa Health will continue to focus on the Juve Family Behavioral Health Pavilion, opening in early 2023. We will identify opportunities to further support philanthropy and increase involvement in government programs. We look forward to the Summa Health Epic Foundation go-live in the fall of 2022. And, we are committed to further investing in our people.
It’s our people who are truly the heart of Summa Health. Whether it be delivering care at the bedside or a helping hand to someone in need, the entire Summa Health family has gone above and beyond to care for those in our community.
Thank you for your support in making Summa Health an outstanding healthcare system. We hope you enjoy this 2021 Summa Health Annual Report and the many inspiring stories we have to share.
Cliff Deveny, M.D.
President and CEO
Summa Health
George Strickler
Chair, Board of Directors
Summa Health