WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center is joining the American Hospital Association (AHA) in observing National Hospital Week, taking place May 7 – 13. During Hospital Week, Camden Clark will commemorate its 125th anniversary of serving the Mid-Ohio Valley and surrounding region as part of its celebrations.
“There is a rich history of healthcare and dedication to our community at Camden Clark,” Steve Altmiller, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, said. “There are traditions and roots here that grow strong, like we have, to be the foundation of our community for 125 years, and we look forward to continuing to provide state-of-the-art, patient-centered care to meet the needs of our communities for generations to come.”
On Tuesday, May 9, employees and community members are invited to celebrate the hospital’s history at the Camden Clark 125th Celebration Ceremony. Hospital leadership, state and local officials and other guests will highlight Camden Clark's 125-year legacy of service during the event program.
To mark the occasion, a life-sized 85-foot wall mural connecting the hospital’s North and South Towers has been installed, which features events throughout Camden Clark’s 125-year history. The foundation of the historic wall installation was derived from the book, A Legacy of Caring, written by Jean Young, RN in 1993 for Camden Clark’s 95th anniversary. Young was a former nurse at Camden Clark with a career spanning more than 40 years.
In addition to the formal celebration ceremony and historic mural installation, Camden Clark will host several other National Hospital Week events and activities to honor employees for their commitment to serving both patients and the community.
“Not only are we reflecting upon our 125-year legacy, but also honoring our team of dedicated, caring individuals during Hospital Week,” Altmiller added. “The efforts of our provider and clinical teams, along with our support staff, are evidenced by the quality, compassionate care provided to our community, each day."
According to the AHA, National Hospital Week is an opportunity to highlight innovative ways the 5,000 hospitals, health systems, networks and others across the country are supporting and connected to their communities.
The theme of this year’s National Hospital Week is #WeAreHealthcare, which focuses on the crucial role hospitals and health systems play in the communities they serve:
- Ensuring access to equitable care – Hospitals work to ensure all individuals are able to access equitable healthcare regardless of circumstance.
- Benefitting communities – Hospitals serve as cornerstones within communities, advancing overall health and wellbeing.
- Supporting public health – Hospitals protect the health of their communities through widespread efforts.
- Prevention and wellness – Hospitals offer holistic approaches to health and invest in long-term wellness programs.
- Innovation, research, and quality improvement – Hospitals play a key role in research and quality care for a better, healthier future.
Pictured from left to right, Sean Smith, Camden Clark Chief Operating Officer, Joe Campbell, Camden Clark Board of Directors, Shari Vance, MD, Camden Clark Chief Medical Officer, Sara Young, Daughter of Jean Young, Nancy Brooks, retired nurse and Director of the Camden Clark Physicians Leadership Academy, and Steve Altmiller, Camden Clark President and CEO.
