Reichert tours Auburn Regional

Swift changes and gradual growth continue at Auburn Regional Medical Center.

U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert, R-Wash., returned home Monday to have a look for himself.

Reichert toured the medical, surgical, acute rehab units and other service wings of the hospital, escorted by ARMC's newly appointed CEO and managing director Larry Coomes, Chief of Staff Richard McMonigal, MD, and other physicians.

"I am not surprised, really," Reichert said of the growing hospital. "These visits to our medical facilities throughout our region only highlights the fact we have some of the best medical care right here.

"Auburn Regional is truly one of those that offers that high quality of health care, emergency care, all the way to everyday medical needs," Reichert said. "And to look toward the future of Auburn Regional and how it is going to serve the public in the future, they have a plan, and that's good to know.

"It should bring some comfort to people who live in the area that there is a plan to provide high-quality medical service, not only today but in the future for our children and grandchildren."

Auburn Regional, which is celebrating its 90th year of caring, has more than 50 physicians on staff who perform surgery and anesthesiology. The hospital has eight operating rooms and 10 recovery beds.

Surgeons perform more than 5,000 inpatient and outpatient surgeries at Auburn Regional each year.

In October, Auburn Regional opens a new surgical unit on its nursing floor to allow patients to be cared for in one area.

Contact Auburn Reporter Regional Editor Mark Klaas at mklaas@auburn-reporter.com or 1-253-833-0218 (ext 5050).

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.