For nearly 110 years, Mercy Health has addressed the growing needs of the Mahoning Valley, which includes the city of Warren and its surrounding communities. Mercy Health has been evaluating ways to meet the increasing health care needs of those living in Trumbull County, delivering on its promise of providing care when and where people live and work.

As part of this commitment, Mercy Health has announced the future development of land adjacent to the Kent State University at Trumbull Campus. 

During a September Kent State Board of Trustees meeting, the Board approved the sale of 62.88 acres, which Mercy Health intends to acquire for the development of a health care campus. 

“Our focus has always been and continues to be on our patients and their families,” said John Luellen, M.D., market president, Mercy Health – Youngstown. “Collaboration remains a cornerstone in fostering community development and we are grateful to work with another local organization to further provide care within Trumbull County.” 
The new health care campus may include the relocation of St. Joseph Warren Hospital as its current location remains landlocked and not able to support the expansion necessary to enhance care within Trumbull County.

Kent State President Todd Diacon, Ph.D., said part of the university’s mission is to serve as an engaged community partner to enhance the quality of life in Northeast Ohio and beyond. 

“Our mission is carried out by forming strong community partnerships with institutions and organizations to help create opportunities for learning for Kent State students and to provide a well-trained workforce for the region we serve,” Diacon said. “We enjoy strong partnerships with several health care institutions across the region. This partnership with Mercy Health provides a stellar opportunity for Kent State to offer expanded learning experiences for our students in nursing and various allied health programs.”

In addition to the existing practicums Kent State nursing students already have at Mercy Health’s Trumbull County facilities, and as a part of this land sale, the partnership will expand to include new practicum and clinical and internship opportunities for Kent State students pursuing associate degrees in radiologic and imaging sciences technology, physical therapy assistant technology, occupational therapy assistant technology, respiratory therapy technology and mammography certification.

Mercy Health identifies potential land parcels suitable for development by considering several criteria including infrastructure and environmental impact, amongst others. Additionally, the impact on community health is weighed greatly to ensure the health system is able to provide care where people need it most.