Circleville's Berger Hospital sets reopening

CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) -- An OhioHealth hospital in Circleville has started the process of reopening after smoke shut down the building earlier this week.

According to OhioHealth, Berger Hospital will start a phased reopening process starting with the emergency department on Thursday at 7 p.m. The reopening will continue Friday with inpatient services, office visits, and Quest laboratories. Outpatient services offered by the hospital will remain closed until further notice.

The hospital was closed on Wednesday when an overheated pump caused smoke in some areas of the building. Watch previous coverage of the incident in the video player above.

"Hospital staff and remediation experts have been working since yesterday to sanitize and return the hospital to normal operating status and ensure the safety of patients and hospital staff," OhioHealth said in a statement.

In total, 55 patients from Berger Hospital were evacuated and either transferred to area hospitals, Circleville High School, or discharged if appropriate. Patients who are being cared for at other hosptials won't be readmitted to Berger, a spokesperson said.

Patients who had their appointments canceled due to the closure will be contacted by phone or via the MyChart app to reschedule.

Patients with other questions about appointments can call 614-566-1111.