[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 35 (Thursday, March 14, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E368]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          WOMEN IN HEALTH CARE

                                 ______


                      HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 14, 1996

  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of all women in 
the health care field.
  As the health care industry continues to change dramatically and 
rapidly, these professionals remain steadfast in their dedication to 
the well-being of the aged and infirm. They work hard to keep up with 
the changing market, while unfailingly remaining committed to helping 
the sick.
  And no matter what their position, everyone contributes in an 
essential way. I honor the efforts made by all women in all roles in 
providing the best quality work toward meeting the needs of patients.
  When I read today the Northern New Jersey Visiting Nurses 
Association's newsletter, I was reminded of the challenges facing our 
health care workers. Their mission: Keeping people healthy by providing 
quality community health service by skilled and caring individuals and 
promoting the health and well-being of the entire community.
  Nursing in particular demands such a broad array of skills and 
knowledge combined with attributes of compassion and commitment. From 
many of the health care professionals with whom I am acquainted, I know 
of the extraordinary job they do at continually re-educating themselves 
in medicine, disease, and an ever-changing, high-technology 
environment, while never losing sight of their most important 
responsibility--the health and well-being of their patients.
  This sense of duty is astonishing. I was recently told of a home 
health aide who during the January blizzard, when so many of us were 
home and safe, walked a couple of miles through 5-foot snowdrifts to 
care for her patient and walked home. I was told of the health workers 
who stayed 2 or 3 consecutive days working extra shifts at the hospital 
to meet the needs of patients. Mr. Speaker, I applaud them.
  These are truly multitalented individuals who fill an essential role 
in our communities. Their job not only requires strong leadership and 
skill, but also a heart and soul unfamiliar to many of us. Today I rise 
to honor them--those individuals who help us stay healthy and serve us 
when in need.

                          ____________________