Haywood Regional Medical Center Marks National Hospital Week, Honors Healthcare Heroes
May 11, 2020
Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is proud to join the American Hospital Association and healthcare organizations around the country in celebrating National Hospital Week, which is observed May 10-15. Each May, National Hospital Week provides an opportunity to pause and honor the millions of healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to taking care of people in their greatest times of need, and to recognize the positive difference hospitals and healthcare organizations make in the communities they serve.
“As our community continues the fight against COVID-19, the pivotal role our healthcare workers play in the well-being of society is clearer than ever,” said Rod Harkleroad, CEO of HRMC. “Their tireless efforts on the front lines of this disease and their commitment to quality care and patient safety year-round are critical to our mission of Making Communities Healthier. We proudly honor these heroes during National Hospital Week and commend their inspiring efforts to serve others.”
HRMC plans to host a celebration for its employees later in the year. In the meantime, community members are encouraged to leave a special note of thanks for hospital employees at www.thankahealthcarehero.com.
The hospital plays an important role in supporting the health and vitality of Haywood County and its surrounding community all year long. From welcoming 31 new providers and expanding services, to investing $3.8 million in new clinical technology and facility improvements, HRMC is committed to meeting the evolving health needs of the community and enhancing access to high quality care close to home.
As one of the region’s economic leaders, the organization employs more than 860 staff and contributed more than $9,248,543 in taxes to the local and state economies last year. Additionally, it is proud to sponsor a number of local community organizations and non-profits, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Community Kitchen, Blue Ridge Community Health Services, Haywood County Recreation and Parks, Haywood County Schools Foundation, Special Olympics, and more. Ensuring that everyone has access to the high-quality and compassionate care they need is a top priority for the organization and fundamental to its mission. In 2019 alone, HRMC provided more than $33,000,000 of charity and other uncompensated care, regardless of patients’ ability to pay.
“Haywood County is a wonderful place to call home, and we are privileged to have a significant impact on its health and economic well-being,” said Mark Clasby, chair of HRMC’s board of trustees. “As we celebrate National Hospital Week amid unprecedented challenges this year and begin to look to the future, we are aware that healthcare – like other aspects of life – might look a little different. What will not change, though, is our mission and our commitment to this community. We will continue to put the health and well-being of our neighbors first, ensuring safe places of care and a healthier community for us all.”