The 2013 National Hospital Week theme, “A Guiding Light for Changing Times,” announced this week, is the centerpiece of a promotional campaign aimed at uniting healthcare facilities across the country during the May 12-18 celebration.

“National Hospital Week is a celebration of people.” Bill Bass, CEO of Centra Southside Community Hospital, said. “We're extremely proud of each member of our staff and we recognize the important role they play in extending a sense of trust to our patients and our communities.

The nation's largest healthcare event, National Hospital Week dates back to 1921 when it was suggested by a magazine editor who hoped a community wide celebration would alleviate public fears about hospitals. The celebration, launched in Chicago, succeeded in promoting trust and goodwill among members of the public and eventually spread to facilities across the country.