FARMVILLE — “Health Care from the Heart” has been the National Hospital Week theme this year — one adopted by Centra Southside Community Hospital this week.

“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. From providing treatment and comfort to the sick, to welcoming new life into the world, hospitals are central to a healthy and optimistic community,” a hospital press release stated.

The event theme, announced this week, is the centerpiece of a promotional campaign aimed at uniting health-care facilities across the country during celebration.

“National Hospital Week, first and foremost, is a celebration of our employees,” said Tom Angelo, CEO of Centra Southside Community Hospital.

“We’re extremely proud of our staff and we recognize the important role they play in extending a sense of trust to our patients and our communities.”

According to the release, the nation’s largest health-care 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.”