From new life to restored health, hospitals serve as community centerpiece
In these unprecedented times, hospitals and the heroes within their walls have become a symbol of a nation united against a new foe and fortified by those willing to adapt, innovate and sacrifice in uncharted waters.
During National Hospital Week May 10 to 16, Penn State Health recognizes the extraordinary commitment of all its employees across all departments and buildings, not only now but all year long.
From environmental services workers whose dedication to details keeps patients safe to the business professionals in every department who are working to keep operations running smoothly, all deserve gratitude.
Whether swabbing people at the drive-through testing sites, coordinating deliveries of food donated to our staff, rescheduling patient exams and tests or caring for COVID-19 patients, the health system is thankful for everyone who is doing their part.
The usual group celebrations and appreciation events at our hospitals are temporarily on hold due to the virus. Penn State Health St. Joseph will recognize staff during Hospital Week with a delivered lunch and small appreciation gift.
Health system leaders Steve Massini, Penn State Health CEO; Deb Berini, Hershey Medical Center president; and Joe Frank, St. Joseph Medical Center interim president, have shared their gratitude daily, but all three agree that the most important voice is that of our patients.
“Thank you for all you are doing for all of us,” one patient wrote in a card sent to our Hershey Incident Command Center. “You are true heroes.”
“Thank you for your commitment to our community’s health,” wrote another person. “I am grateful for the sacrifices you are making to care for the sick in a time like this. You are seen and appreciated. You inspire me to love and serve others.”
A grateful St. Joseph Medical Center patient who went to the Emergency Department and was admitted for a procedure, wrote on Facebook, “With everything going on with COVID-19, the hospital truly has amazing precautions in place to assure you don’t come in contact with anyone who has the potential to test positive for it. The nurses and doctors were simply amazing and still friendly during this trying time! Keep up the amazing work!”
Even though our buildings and our staff look a little different these days, we are continuing to do what we’ve always done – safely and expertly take care of people, 24/7/365.
To see or share special wishes for the many heroes working together in our hospitals, visit thisispennstatehealth.org/heroes.
You can also share by tagging us on social media and use the hashtag #heroeslooklikeTHIS
Twitter: @PennStHershey
Facebook: @Pennsthershey
Instagram: @pennstatehershey
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