Florida Hospital Volusia/Flagler Celebrates National Hospital & Nurses Weeks

Source: Florida Hospital

VOLUSIA/FLAGLER - 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 provide treatment and comfort to the sick, and are central to a healthy and optimistic community. That's the message organizers at the American Hospital Association are touting with the 2011 National Hospital Week theme "Champions of Care."

The event theme is the centerpiece of a national 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," said Daryl Tol, Florida Hospital Volusia/Flagler Market CEO. "We employ nearly 4,700 people and are extremely proud of each and every one of them. This week we honor each staff member, and thank them for not only caring for our patients with compassion, but also carrying out Florida Hospital's mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ."

As 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.

During this celebration, Florida Hospital Volusia/Flagler will also celebrate National Nurses Week. This additional celebration begins May 6, on Nurse Recognition Day, and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession. This annual national celebration focuses attention on the diverse ways America's 3.1 million registered nurses work to save lives and to improve the health of millions of individuals.

"Across the Volusia/Flagler region, Florida Hospital employs more than 1,200 nurses," said Michele Goeb-Burkett, Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center Vice President of Clinical Services/Chief Nursing Officer. "Our nurses play a vital role in extending our mission to our patients and community, and for this we are truly blessed."