SHELBY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—After an illustrious career spanning over 40 years, Theresa Roth, PhD, RN, Director of Critical Care at OhioHealth Mansfield and Shelby Hospitals, is bidding farewell to the healthcare community. Her remarkable journey has left an indelible mark on patient care and hospital operations.

A Journey That Comes Full Circle

Roth’s professional voyage began where her passion ignited: nursing. In 1985, she received her diploma from the Mansfield General School of Nursing. Her unwavering commitment led her to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at The Ohio State University in 1991. From her early days as a staff nurse at Mansfield Hospital, Roth steadily climbed the ranks, eventually assuming pivotal roles as nurse manager and nurse director. A brief stint as an information systems consultant only reinforced her conviction that her heart belonged in the hospital. “I missed being able to have that impact on the local level,” Roth reflected. “This is my community. This is my home. This is where I really want to be.”

A Trailblazer in Healthcare

Roth’s legacy extends beyond hospital walls. Her tireless efforts led to Shelby Hospital’s accreditation as a Critical Access Hospital. This achievement not only enhanced access to care in the rural community but also paved the way for the Transitional Care Unit (TCU)—affectionately known as the Swing Bed program. The TCU allows patients to receive acute inpatient or skilled nursing care within Shelby Hospital, eliminating the need for distant travel to larger cities like Cleveland or Columbus. It was a monumental step toward keeping care local.

Transforming Spaces, Impacting Lives

Roth’s impact reverberated through physical spaces as well. She spearheaded Shelby Hospital’s $10 million surgical program expansion and orchestrated a stunning renovation of the front lobby. These enhancements not only elevated the hospital’s facilities but also underscored Roth’s commitment to patient well-being.

Community Champion

Beyond her hospital duties, Roth immersed herself in community service. Her journey included pivotal roles with organizations such as:

  • United Fund of Shelby: Roth’s early involvement in this volunteer association set the stage for her subsequent contributions.
  • Mansfield Cancer Board
  • Shelby Foundation Board
  • Shelby Rotary
  • Richland County Foundation
  • Shelby Chamber of Commerce Board

Her leadership extended to the Shelby Rotary, where she served as both vice president and president. Last year, Roth’s exceptional contributions earned her the prestigious Athena Award, recognizing her excellence in professional leadership, community service, and mentorship.

A Bright Future

As Roth bids farewell to her esteemed colleagues and the community she holds dear, she looks forward to embarking on a new adventure. Her retirement plans include trekking the Camino Frances, an 800-km route across the northern expanse of Spain. Meanwhile, Karen Brown, Roth’s successor, will assume her role next month.