Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s two clinics that recently opened in Lawrence County have been welcomed with open arms, as they should, because this provides another option for health care needs.

While the naysayers are quick to point out the things that are wrong with southern Ohio and Lawrence County, it is inarguable that residents have tremendous health care resources right here at home. Many of these rival those in larger metropolitan areas.

Of course, Lawrence County still needs its own hospital or comparable facility, something we do believe the Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization and St. Mary’s Medical Center will make a reality. But in the meantime, area residents have one of the most important tools when it comes to finding the right medical treatment or facility: Choices.

With full-fledged hospitals — King’s Daughters Medical Center, Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cabell Huntington Hospital and Southern Ohio Medical Center — as well as a variety of clinics and specialty medical facilities like Nationwide, Lawrence County and the Tri-State has become a hub for health care.

This is vital when it comes to economic development and growth.

The most important thing residents should consider is very simple: Who can provide the best care for any given health concern?

It isn’t about brand or loyalty or who works where. The bottom line is that all these organizations focus on healing, often working together to accomplish these goals.

Children’s Hospital is a nice addition to Ironton and the entire region, making one of Lawrence County’s strengths even stronger.