Rome Health Expands Surgical Robotics Program with Opening of Kaplan Center for Surgical Services
With the July 7 opening of the new Kaplan Center for Surgical Services, Rome Health has expanded its surgical robotics program to meet growing demand and enhance patient outcomes.
The expansion includes the addition of a second da Vinci Xi™ Surgical System, which is now in use at the new facility. Rome Health offers a broad range of robotic-assisted procedures, including bariatric, colorectal, general surgery, gynecologic, thoracic and urological operations.
“This significant investment ensures that our surgeons have access to the advanced technology they need to deliver the best possible outcomes for their patients,” said Robotics Coordinator Maureen Fischer, RN. “Bringing a second robot online allows us to offer more patients the benefits of minimally invasive, robot-assisted surgery right here in our community.”
Rome Health launched its surgical robotics program in June 2024 with support from the Rome Health Foundation. In just over a year, the program has grown rapidly, driven by surgeon adoption and strong clinical outcomes.
“Robotic technology complements our surgeons’ expertise by extending the capabilities of our eyes and hands,” said Fischer. “For patients, it means smaller incisions, faster recovery time, minimal scarring and pain, less trauma on the body, and shorter hospital stays.”
The program is led by Robotics Medical Director Po Lam, M.D., a fellowship-trained urologist specializing in robotic procedures for prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer. Credentialed surgical specialists include Dr. Lam, Keneth Hall, MD; Samuel Molica, DO; Pedro Del Pino, MD; Alberto Del Pino, MD; Theresa Wendel Ruddy, MD; Lauren Giustra, MD, Ankur Desai, MD, and Krislyn Flint, MD. Additional surgeons are expected to join the robotics team in 2025.
Fischer emphasized that the opening of the Kaplan Center and the activation of a second robot also support the hospital’s long-term strategic goals. “By expanding our robotics program and opening the Kaplan Center for Surgical Services, we’re not only enhancing the patient experience but also strengthening our ability to attract and retain exceptional specialists,” said Fischer. “This ensures that our community has access to the best care out there, right here at home.”
The Rome Health Foundation has played a critical role in advancing the robotics program. “We extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who shares our vision for advancing care in our community,” said Chester W. DiBari III, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Your generosity has brought this groundbreaking technology to Rome Health, elevating the standard of care and improving outcomes for our patients.”
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About Rome Health
Rome Health is a non-profit health care system based in Rome, N.Y., providing services to
patients throughout Central New York. From primary and specialty care to long-term care,
Rome Health delivers quality, compassionate medical care for every stage of life. We are a
comprehensive health care system that connects you to the best clinicians and the latest
technologies so they are easily accessible to you and your family. Rome Health is an affiliate of
St. Joseph’s Health and an affiliated clinical site of New York Medical College.