Annual Recognition of Healthcare Professionals

National Nurses Week

Each year, from May 6-12, U.S. healthcare facilities observe National Nurses Week. The dates are significant because May 12 coincides with the birthday of Florence Nightingale -- a trailblazer in nursing who greatly affected 19th and 20th Century policies around proper medical care. Nurses constitute one of the country’s largest health care professions. As trusted care providers, nurses are indispensable ensuring safe and quality inpatient and outpatient care.

“At Penn Highlands Healthcare, our nurses make a difference in the lives of everyone they touch,” said Heather Franci, MBHA, BSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Service Line Director Heart Center, Lung Center, Brain and Spine and Oncology Services at Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Our nurses are among the best in the region — if not the state – and I am proud to work with each and every one of them.”

National Hospital Week

From May 10-16, 2026, hospitals and health systems throughout the U.S. will celebrate National Hospital Week to recognize the more than 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks and others who provide care to their communities.

Established in 1921, National Hospital Week highlights the essential role hospitals play in community health, promotes trust and celebrates the dedication of healthcare workers. It provides a platform to educate communities on the challenges facing facilities such as rising costs and staffing concerns.

“Penn Highlands Healthcare values our skilled and compassionate physicians, nurses, providers and all employees – on the front line and behind the scenes who provide high-quality, advanced medicine in the communities we serve,” said Trina Johnson, DO, MBA, System Chief Medical Officer at Penn Highlands Healthcare.

When you receive care from Penn Highlands Healthcare, be sure to recognize your provider for the care they provide to you and our communities.