Capital Campaign

Surrounded by major donors and hospital officials, the Rome Memorial Hospital Foundation launched the public phase of its capital campaign Monday, Sept. 13, to raise money for the hospital’s new 10,500 square foot Emergency Department.

“This hospital is absolutely critical to our community. We need it not only for our well being, but for our community’s continued growth,” said Foundation President William Tracy. “I appeal to everyone in the greater Rome community to participate in the ‘Building a Better Tomorrow’ campaign and give whatever you can. Your donation will be greatly appreciated by the entire community – each one of us who depends upon this hospital for our emergency care.”

With nearly $2.25 million pledged by major donors, foundations, hospital management, physicians and board members, the Foundation is now appealing to the general community for help in reaching its $3 million goal. The total cost of the construction project is $10.5 million.

“Our Emergency Department is the heart of our organization, but we are challenged by a lack of space for the growing number of patients who turn to us for emergency care,” President and Chief Executive Officer Darlene Burns said. “Anyone who has ever experienced the long waits and overcrowded conditions in our Emergency Department recognizes the undeniable need for expansion.”

The current Emergency Department was built in 1976 when the number of patient visits numbered less than 10,000 per year. In 2003, the Emergency Department staff treated 19,165 patients, a 3.4% increase over 2002. The number of seniors treated in the Emergency Department has climbed more than 20% in the last five years.

Extending out from the current Emergency Department towards Black River Boulevard, the new construction will nearly triple the size of the hospital’s Emergency Department from 3,700 square feet to 10,500 square feet. The number of treatment rooms will be increased by 75% from eight to 14.

Tax deductible contributions may be made to the Rome Memorial Hospital Foundation, 1617 N. James St., Suite 950, Rome, NY 13440. A member of the Foundation is available to meet with donors to discuss planned giving and naming opportunities for larger gifts. Contact the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Kerr Flanders at 337-5309 for further information or e-mail her at kflanders@romehospital.org.