[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 67 (Tuesday, May 11, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S5097]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    YAKIMA VALLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

 Mr. GORTON. Mr. President, this week hospitals and communities 
across America are celebrating National Hospital Week. This week is set 
aside to celebrate the caring and commitment of our nation's hospitals 
and health systems and the workers, volunteers and other health 
professionals who are there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for their 
neighbors who need them.
  An example of this dedication is Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital in 
Yakima, Washington. I want to commend Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital 
for receiving the American Hospital Association's 1999 NOVA award. 
These awards spotlight innovative community partnerships that respond 
to local needs.
  Yakima Valley Memorial was chosen as a NOVA award winner for creating 
the Children's Village for children with special health care needs. The 
entire building has the feel of an old western town. It features logs 
on the outside, stone floors, a covered wagon for a reception desk and 
an elevator disguised as a mineshaft stocked with treasure.
  More important than the architecture is the integrated services of 
fourteen area health, education and service providers that work 
together at the Children's Village. Children that used to travel two 
hours or more for care now have access to specialty care in their local 
community. Parents can schedule a single appointment for their child 
that combines several treatments and therapies. The village also offers 
specialty clinics for fetal alcohol syndrome, cardiology, neurology, 
and cleft lip and palate.
  I am proud to recognize Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital for its 
achievements. It is an outstanding example of a hospital that makes a 
difference in its community.

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