UH Samaritan Medical Center

03/30/2026

03/24/2026

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Mary MacDonald, M.D., who passed away on March 22, 2026, after 26 years of devoted service to our community.

Dr. MacDonald joined Samaritan Regional Health System in 1999 and spent her career as a trauma surgeon dedicated to the people of Ashland and the surrounding region. Her skill, compassion, and commitment to caring for those in need defined everything she did — both here and throughout a lifetime of service to medically underserved communities.

She was a beloved physician, a cherished colleague, and a cornerstone of this community. To her patients, she was a source of strength and reassurance. To those who worked alongside her, she was an inspiration.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband Evan, her five children, her four grandchildren, and her entire family. Dr. MacDonald's legacy of service and compassion will not be forgotten.

She will be deeply missed.

03/20/2026

Connecting with our community at the Richland County Chamber of Commerce Business Expo! Our Samaritan-opoly booth was all about one thing — helping YOU start your healthy journey. Ready to advance to better health?

03/19/2026

Our certified nurses are simply the best. Celebrating YOU today and every day — Happy National Certified Nurses Day from UH Samaritan Medical Center!

03/17/2026

Over 1,000 Ashland residents joined the annual St. Patrick's Day parade and creek dying event on Saturday. What a fun way to get in your steps and soak in some Vitamin D!

03/12/2026

March 12 is World Kidney Day — a global reminder to take care of your kidney health. We are grateful for our UH Samaritan Kidney Clinic team, who share their expertise through patient care and education. Dr. Aaron Young, Lisa Young, DNP, APRN-CNP and Destinee Williams, Practice Lead, provide the following helpful information to keep your kidneys healthy.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, 1 in 7 adults have kidney disease — and 90% don’t even know it. Even more concerning, 1 in 3 adults are at risk of developing kidney disease.
Kidney disease often develops slowly over time and may not cause symptoms in its early stages, which makes routine checkups and lab testing incredibly important—especially for those at higher risk.

Two of the most common conditions that damage kidney function are:
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)

It’s also important to be mindful of medications. Frequent use of NSAIDs (common over-the-counter pain relievers) can harm the kidneys and may lead to permanent changes in kidney function if used regularly.

Kidney specialists (nephrologists) care for patients with a variety of conditions including:
• Chronic kidney disease
• Kidney stones
• Electrolyte and acid-base imbalances
• Hypertension
• Congenital kidney conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• End-stage kidney disease

The good news: Many cases of kidney disease can be prevented or slowed with early detection and good management of risk factors.

Get routine lab work
Manage blood pressure and blood sugar
Talk with your provider about medications
Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle

Your kidneys play a vital role in keeping your body healthy. Take a moment this World Kidney Day to learn your risk and protect your kidney health.

03/09/2026

We are proud to share that UH Samaritan Medical Center has been recognized as a Distinguished Kindness Workplace by Random Acts of Kindness Foundation!

This recognition reflects the culture our team lives every day—treating patients, families, and one another with compassion, respect, and kindness. From small acts that brighten someone’s day to the extraordinary care our staff provides, kindness is at the heart of everything we do.

We are grateful for our incredible team members who make Samaritan a place where kindness thrives and healing happens.

Together, we’re proving that kindness truly makes a difference.

03/04/2026

UH Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute retained its largest class of fellows yet. What makes these physicians choose UH for training – and what keeps them here to care for our patients.

✨ World-class mentorship with leaders who have your back
✨ Collegial culture built on respect, not ego
✨ Hands-on learning with complex cases and research opportunities
✨ Personal investment from leadership in your growth
✨ A family atmosphere where attendings show up for you—24/7

Recent graduates are now serving across UH locations, bringing excellence systemwide. Four more fellows are starting this summer!

03/01/2026

Today is World Music Therapy Day — and we're celebrating one of UH Samaritan Medical Center's most unique and powerful healing resources.

Meet Audry Guildoo, our certified music therapist, whose evidence-based work supports patients across our care teams every day. Music therapy isn't just a playlist — it's a clinically proven practice that helps patients manage pain, reduce stress, improve communication, and heal in ways that traditional medicine alone cannot always reach.

We are grateful to have Audry and this incredible service as part of our patient care family. Here's to the healers who bring music to the bedside.

02/24/2026

Ready to build your computer skills?

We’re excited to offer an opportunity to learn computer basics in a supportive, hands-on environment! This course is perfect for beginners looking to gain confidence using a laptop for everyday tasks.

Bonus: Participants who complete all 6 weekly sessions will get to keep the laptop at the end of the course!

Spots are limited, so be sure to check out the flyer below for full details, including dates, times, and how to register.

Take the first step toward growing your digital skills today!