VCHS Celebrates Hospital & Nursing Home Week

May 8, 2011

(ORD) - A hospital is more than a place where people go to heal, it is a part of the community that fosters health and represents hope. Hospitals are central to a healthy and optimistic community. That's the message organizers are touting with the 2011 National Hospital Week theme "Champions of Care."

The event theme, announced this week, is the centerpiece of a promotional campaign aimed at uniting health care facilities across the country during the May 8-14 celebration.

"National Hospital Week, first and foremost, is a celebration of people," Bill Luke, Interim CEO of Valley County Health System said. "We're extremely proud of each member of our staff and we recognize the important role they play in providing excellent healthcare to our patients in the communities we serve."

The nation's largest health care event, National Hospital Week dates back to 1921 when it was suggested by a magazine editor who hoped a community wide celebration would alleviate public fears about hospitals. The celebration, launched in Chicago, succeeded in promoting trust and goodwill among members of the public and eventually spread to facilities across the country.

A full slate of activities is planned at Valley County Health System, including and employee BBQ on Wednesday. For more information, call 308.728.4247.