National Hospital Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Hospital Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Hospital Week is observed on May 7th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Hospital Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you need know about National Hospital Week.

📅 What day is National Hospital Week 2024?

In 2024, National Hospital Week is on Sunday, May 7th. It is the 1st Sunday in May; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all the fun details and facts about May 7, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Hospital Week is a special occasion celebrated from May 7 to 13, coinciding with Florence Nightingale’s birthday on May 12. It is a tribute organized by the American Hospital Association to recognize and appreciate the dedicated efforts of hospitals, health systems, and healthcare professionals in their life-saving work.

📜 National Hospital Week History

In 370 A.D., St. Basil the Great established a monastic institution in Cappadocia that included a hospital. This hospital primarily served as an isolation unit for individuals suffering from leprosy, but it also provided housing for the destitute, elderly, and sick. This example inspired the construction of similar hospitals in the eastern Roman Empire.

In 1099, the Knights Hospitallers of the Order of St. John took the lead in establishing military hospitals. These hospitals were strategically located along travel routes to ensure quick access and aid for soldiers injured in war. The Knights Hospitallers cared for approximately 2,000 patients and specialized in treating eye problems. Over time, this order came to be known as the St. John Ambulance.

The earliest hospital in what is now the United States was reportedly a hospital for troops on Manhattan Island, founded in 1663. The first hospitals in the country were mainly almshouses, with the first one opening in 1622 in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1751, the Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia became the first hospital in the United States to receive a license from the queen.

✅ National Hospital Week Facts

🔖 Beer as prescription medication
Certain hospitals keep beer with prescription labels readily available for individuals with alcohol addiction who may face life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

🔖 Children don’t like clowns that much
In a study focused on designing hospitals for children, researchers asked 250 young individuals about their opinions on clowns. The results revealed that most of the participants expressed dislike or fear towards clowns.

🔖 The creator of “Peter Pan” had a big heart
J. M. Barrie, the author of the story, decided to donate the rights to a children’s hospital. By doing so, he ensured that the hospital would receive financial support from the story’s profits, enabling it to continue its operations.

👍 Why Is National Hospital Week Important

This week is observed to express our appreciation for the efforts of healthcare personnel and hospitals. A simple “thank you” may go a long way.

Healthcare is one of the most essential professions in the world since it contributes to the preservation of human life. Their efforts must be acknowledged.

Sending thank-you cards and expressing gratitude helps to transmit positive energy. It demonstrates that we are compassionate and concerned about the contributions of others.

🙂 How To Observe National Hospital Week

⚡ Volunteer

⚡ Write a note of appreciation
Receiving a heartfelt handwritten message of appreciation can make a significant impact. Whether you choose to send a card to a specific healthcare professional or an entire department at the hospital, it adds a personal touch that is truly meaningful.

⚡ Spread awareness
Small, small hospitals are sometimes understaffed and may require your assistance. Go to the local community hospital and see if there are any ways you can help.

📅 When is National Hospital Week?

Discover all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about National Hospital Week. So be sure to check back soon.