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In recent years, the role of hospitals in their communities has grown exponentially. Where we once were expected to provide only acute and emergency medical services, now we are often the key resource for primary care, health education and health support services in many of the communities we serve. Our mission, to extend the healing ministry of Jesus, has called us to shoulder that growing responsibility with skillful hands and joyful hearts. And the community benefit staff of each of our 10 ministries has risen to that challenge. Dr. Albert Schweitzer once said, “I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” Following that advice, community outreach activities have set a standard for service that brings joy and comfort to thousands of individuals and families in need. Throughout our 25th Anniversary year, the ministries of the St. Joseph Health System made great strides in improving the access and affordability of preventive, primary care and educational services in Northern and Southern California, Texas and New Mexico. In response to our comprehensive “Community Health Survey,” completed in 2007, we launched a variety of initiatives to address the nation’s growing problem of childhood obesity. We also expanded options for prenatal, dental, health assessment, fitness and nutrition education. These efforts touch the lives of city residents, agricultural workers, young mothers, children of low-income families, mental health patients and many others in our communities. I invite you to “click through” the sections of this report for more detailed information on the wonderful community outreach and service initiatives implemented by our ministries. I want to thank each of our community benefit staff members for the wonderful work they do. But that tribute is minor in contrast to the gratitude and admiration of those who rely on them for care. In the words of the Chinese philosopher Confucius, “He who wishes to secure the good of others, has already secured his own.” By that standard, our community benefit staff receives bountiful blessings each and every day. Thank you everyone for responding so effectively to your communities’ needs. Your tireless efforts may be rewarded in more ways than you can anticipate. Sincerely, |
