HOISINGTON — 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 are central to a healthy and optimistic community. That’s the message organizers are touting with the 2012 National Hospital Week theme, “Making Miracles Happen.”
The week-long event, beginning May 6 is sponsored annually by the American Hospital Association.  National Hospital week serves as a reminder that Hospitals are cornerstones of the communities that built and nurture them, and that hospitals serve people in every community from all walks of life.
“National Hospital Week gives us an opportunity to recognize the contributions of our health care workers and celebrate the great things happening in healthcare in our community today,” said Curt Colson, president and CEO. “Clara Barton is proud to provide vital services that are helping residents of Barton and the surrounding counties to get well and stay healthy.  
“This week, we will celebrate our professionals who play a vital role in providing healing care in peoples’ lives 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said. “CBH prides itself on the care provided by its professional staff.”
 “Healthcare is a challenging field and it takes a dedicated and talented group of individuals to deliver the level of patient care that is needed,” said John Moshier, human resource director. “We greatly appreciate the staff and their tremendous contributions to this medical facility in this community.”  In 2011, CBH provided emergency care to 2,338 patients, performed 1,446 surgeries, provided 24,329 outpatient treatment services and cared for 555 patients admitted to the hospital.
CBH will “make their own Miracles happens” by celebrating “Miracle Treat Day” during hospital week, explains event chair, Doris Meyeres, administrative secretary. Clara Barton Hospital’s Administration has purchased 175 Blizzards, one for each employee from the Hoisington Dairy Queen. They  will donate a $1 for every blizzard purchased, a total of $175 to the Children’s Miracle Network.  
The administration of Clara Barton Hospital invites the community to celebrate National Hospital Week, by joining them on Wednesday, May 9 for a “Community/Employee Meet and Greet” in the front lobby from 2-4 p.m. Cookies, tea, coffee and popcorn will be served. CBH will host the Chamber Coffee on Thursday, May 10 at 9:30 a.m. in the Turnbull Safe Room.
Employees will participate in employee only events throughout the week such as staff potluck, employee barbecue, and make your own sundae, adopt a department and scavenger hunt.
The community is welcome to visit the hospital to view the “Guess what baby picture belongs to what employee”. Baby pictures will be posted on the wall by the conference room.
Information about this event and services provided can be found at the newly-revised website http://clarabartonhospital.org or on Facebook.