West Central PA News

May is a significant month for the healthcare sector in the United States, as it marks National Nurses Month, National Nurses Week, and National Hospital Week. These observances provide an opportunity to acknowledge the vital roles that nurses and hospitals play in delivering healthcare services.

National Nurses Month is celebrated throughout May by the American Nurses Association (ANA). It serves to enhance understanding of the nursing profession, encourage young individuals to pursue nursing careers, and recognize the substantial contributions made by nurses. National Nurses Week, observed from May 6-12 since 1954, coincides with Florence Nightingale's birthday on May 12. Nightingale's work in the mid-1800s laid the foundation for modern nursing practices.

"Nursing is a calling. I cannot name another profession that impacts lives in so many ways," stated Heather Franci, Chief Nursing Officer at Penn Highlands Healthcare. "Today’s nurses are more than caregivers; they are advocates, teachers, critical thinkers, counselors and innovators – all while giving unwavering emotional support."

In addition to honoring nurses, National Hospital Week will be observed from May 11-17. This week emphasizes the essential services provided by hospitals and health systems across the country. Annually, these institutions care for millions of patients and employ a vast workforce dedicated to meeting community health needs.

Penn Highlands Healthcare highlights its commitment to providing high-quality medical care through its skilled staff. "Through their skill, compassion and selflessness, we are able to provide high-quality, advanced medicine in the communities we serve," notes Penn Highlands Healthcare.