National Hospital Week is designed to recognize the commitment of healthcare workers to advancing health in the United States. This year, it will be held May 10 through 16 and was recognized by a proclamation at a recent Milford City Council meeting.
“Whereas, in 1953, National Hospital Week was established as a time of the year to reflect on the important contribution that hospitals make to provide safe, high-quality healthcare; and whereas, National Hospital Week celebrates hospitals and the healthcare providers who, day in and day out, support the health of our communities through compassionate care, constant innovation and unmatched dedication; and,” Mayor Todd Culotta read. “Whereas, the nurses, physicians, hospital and healthcare workers that provide care and support to Delaware patients are vital lifelines to the health and well-being of communities.”
Culotta continued.
“Whereas, Delaware hospitals and systems provide a range of health services including acute inpatient care as well as outpatient, emergency, behavioral health, rehabilitation, long-term acute care, primary care and more; and whereas, patients and communities rely on the wide range of critical health care services that only hospitals and health systems can provide; and,” Culotta read. “the celebration serves as a reminder that hospitals are foundations of the communities that build them and serve people from all walks of life in every community.”
Culotta concluded by honoring Bayhealth Hospital Sussex Campus and PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital, Sussex Campus as well as the hardworking people who support hospitals throughout the state. Culotta also commended Pam James, the wife of Councilman Jason James, who works for Bayhealth.
According to the American Hospital Association, National Hospital Week began as a day, celebrated on May 12, to honor the birthday of nurse pioneer Florence Nightingale. It was initially created to promote trust in hospitals in the wake of the Spanish flu epidemic. In 1953, it was expanded to a full week.
