National Hospital Week Puts Spotlight on Oakwood Staff

Hospitals are central to a healthy and optimistic community. That's the message members of the Oakwood Hospital staff are touting with the 2013 National Hospital Week festivities.

The hospital held an open house and breakfast on Monday to recognize its employees and its partnerships with the city of Dearborn.

"I hope people spend some time thinking about what the hospital is and what it means to the community this week," said Douglas Welday, executive vice president of operations for Oakwood Healthcare, Inc.

"We have a really long list of services that we provide in Dearborn and throughout the region. We are proud of the work we do, not only our acute care services, but also more importantly the community services that we provide."

With a team of more than 60 primary and specialty care physicians, specialists and health care professionals, Welday said Oakwood's employees offer more than 30 health services, including programs in orthopedics, health screenings, support services, occupational health services, and sports medicine.

"Our staff offers all the things that make wellness and health a part of your daily life," he said.

Dearborn Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. praised the partnership between the city and Oakwood Healthcare, presenting Oakwood officials with a proclamation to honor the hospital for its contribution to the community.

“Dearborn and Oakwood have grown together,” said O’Reilly. “I’m very proud of that partnership.”

The relationship dates back more than 60 years, to when the hospital first opened its doors in the community. The city and hospital have a long tradition of cooperation, O'Reilly added, as he referenced partnerships that have brought life-saving technology to the Dearborn Fire Department, such as the portable 12-lead LifePak EKG monitors that can help cut heart attack treatment times in half.

“This is the latest in technology and a significant investment in the community,” said O’Reilly. “It has helped save lives."

Welday thanked the mayor for his support. He also thanked the many staff members and volunteers on hand for the celebration.

“We’re proud of the work we do,” Welday. “All of the staff and our volunteers are really what makes Oakwood who we are.”

The open house also included free blood pressure screenings, a tour of a specialized HealthLink ambulance and demonstrations of the DaVinci surgical robot and the Cyberknife unit.