Hospital Week Celebrates Strong Commitment in Season of Change

NEWPORT, Ark. (May 12, 2009) - Area hospitals have their “commitment” on display May 10-16, but officials say the sense of dedication lasts far beyond National Hospital Week.

“The people who meet the daily health care needs of this nation are a committed, compassionate group of individuals united by their calling to help others, Chip Camp, CEO of Harris Hospital, said.  “Health care is changing to meet new challenges, but our commitment is an enduring source of pride and confidence.”

National Hospital Week 2009, celebrated the week of May 10-16, is the nation’s largest annual health care event.  This year’s theme is “A Healthy Commitment in Changing Times,” a phrase organizers believe provides a positive view of the future.

“It’s always been about our people.  Change is inevitable but our goals and our mission are constant.  Our people want the very best for our patients and that’s what they bring to the hospital every day of the year,” Camp stated.

National Hospital Week began in 1921 and, over the decades, has helped revolutionize the public view of hospitals.  The health care industry employs more than 14 million workers throughout the U.S.