In a region steeped in historical significance, the Regional Hospital of Scranton has embarked on a new chapter, marked by a recent ceremonial reopening that underscores its resilience and transformation. Dr. Patrick Conaboy, a native of Scranton and the current CEO of both Regional and Moses Taylor Hospitals, is at the helm of this pivotal moment.
“For a long time, this door has been closed, and it was symbolic of the fact that a lot of people in this community thought we were closed,” Dr. Conaboy shared during the reopening ceremony. “We never were, but you couldn’t come here, and the place looked dark, and people thought we were gone. We’ve never left, but we’re back now, and we’re better than ever.”
Recent Developments at Commonwealth Health
Michael Clark, President of Commonwealth Health, praised the advancements made since the acquisition by Tenor Health Foundation, which included Regional, Moses Taylor, and Wilkes-Barre General Hospitals earlier this year.
Moses Taylor Hospital has revitalized its pharmacy, ‘The Apothecary,’ and introduced the ‘Meds-to-Beds’ program, providing patients the convenience of having prescriptions ready upon discharge.
Expressing gratitude, Clark acknowledged Tenor president Radha Savitala’s leadership during this period of change.
Additionally, the Regional Hospital has been awarded the American College of Cardiology HeartCARE Center designation, a prestigious recognition for excellence in cardiovascular care.
“That designation is only earned by a few hundred hospitals in the United States. So you can know that you have the very best serving you right here,” Clark stated.
The focus remains on attracting new physicians and planning the establishment of a women’s center equipped with cutting-edge technology.
“We’re looking at other opportunities. A women’s center dedicated with the latest cutting-edge technology, and also the cutting-edge employees to operate that equipment,” Clark added.
U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-Luzerne) has proposed over $3 million in federal funds for fiscal year 2027 to establish a women’s imaging and breast care center at Moses Taylor Hospital. This center would offer comprehensive services including screening, diagnostic imaging, biopsy, and surgical procedures.
Bresnahan collaborated with State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski (D-Lackawanna) to ensure a future for the hospitals.
“Based off of the people that are here today, it shows that it took a village, it took a community to keep these doors open, and we’re very grateful to have been trusted to play a very small part in this process,” Bresnahan expressed during the ceremony.
Looking Back at Achievements
Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti, a Democrat running against Bresnahan for Pennsylvania’s 8th congressional district, praised the hospital executives for their dedication to progress under Tenor’s guidance.
“This is a place of great emotion, and it is so important that we continue to make sure that this hospital thrives right here in the heart of Scranton. It’s important to us from a morale standpoint, but also from an economic standpoint,” Cognetti emphasized.
She acknowledged the perseverance of hospital staff amidst recent challenges, stating, “Scranton is on the right track.”
Rep. Kosierowski, instrumental in securing a buyer, extended her appreciation to the community and local foundations for their unwavering support.
“Unfortunately, it is about the patients, it is about the staff, but we needed funding,” Kosierowski remarked. “This is an antiquated structure that needed funding and needed a little help. We have an enormous partnership with our foundations. We could not do this without our foundations here locally. So I’m really grateful that Tenor saw the pathway forward, and I’m grateful to be here today.”
The foundations involved include the Scranton Area Community Foundation, AllOne Foundation & Charities, Luzerne Foundation, Moses Taylor Foundation, NEPA Health Care Foundation, Allied Services, The Wright Center, and the Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
“They came up with millions of dollars to keep CHS at the table,” Conaboy expressed. “[They] all stepped up and actually wrote checks and kept this place going until we could stand on our own two feet. And I want to publicly thank them for that.”
Dr. Frank Kolucki, the chief medical officer, highlighted the hospital staff’s commitment to enhancing healthcare in Northeast Pennsylvania. “There have been so many positive things that have occurred. You’ve heard a lot of them from Dr. Conaboy, but from the recruitment of physicians, increasing services, revitalization of the structure, getting incredible new technology. So it’s a bright new day for healthcare in Scranton. We want people to know that we’re here to stay,” he stated.
Amidst applause, Clark cut a ribbon, symbolizing a new era for Regional Hospital. “Thank you very much and welcome to Regional Hospital 2.0,” Conaboy concluded.
