OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital launches automated to-go market

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital in Van Wert, Ohio has debuted an automated on-the-go market for patients, visitors and staff.

The market offers a selection of to-go sandwiches, salads, drinks and more. Diners pay for their items using self-checkout kiosks.  

Diners can also use Sodexo’s Everyday App to order ahead of time and have their order be delivered to a selected pickup area or they can pick it up in the cafeteria.

Hospital staff will have 24-hour access to the market by scanning their badge. Hospital patients and visitors can access the market from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We were able to open Market Express weeks ahead of schedule thanks to some great teamwork,” said Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, in a statement. “It has already been a great addition for our patients, visitors, and our associates. This was part of an innovative effort to help with staffing while also supporting our sustainability initiatives.”

Automated markets and vending machines are becoming more widespread in hospitals due to their ability to provide expanded food access to hospital staff, patients and visitors.