Health Unit Coordinators Day

Health Unit Coordinators Day used to be celebrated on August 23, but since 2017 this holiday has been lasting the entire last week of this month. This day is dedicated to the coordinators of medical institutions who improve the quality of our lives – because they are administrators and organize the workflow of doctors, nurses and other medical personnel. These people are usually invisible, they are entry-level health workers, but without them, the functioning of medical clinics and centers is almost impossible. It is important to thank these professionals on their holiday.

History

In 1977, Myrna Lafleur conducted a nationwide survey and found that there were 52 official medical unit coordinator programs in the US. Also, according to the survey, she noticed that these people are interested in creating their own national association. In 1980, she contacted these health workers and initiated a general meeting in the city of Phoenix, scheduled for August 23, 1980.

The health workers gathered for this meeting, drafted a charter, and became the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators (NAHUC). The date of their meeting became their professional holiday – Health Unit Coordinators Day.

Interesting facts

The Second World War contributed to the emergence of the profession of coordinator of the medical unit. Before her, the staff of hospitals consisted of doctors, nurses, orderlies and support staff (cleaners, laundresses, cooks). All administrative matters had to be handled by nurses.

The war called for many doctors to the front lines, and nurses had to take on more responsibilities, replacing busy doctors. They simply did not have time for non-medical administrative matters. So there was a need for people capable of performing this difficult and responsible work.

How to celebrate

Celebrate Health Unit Coordinators Day with gratitude to the coordinators of medical institutions:

1. If you personally know a person of this profession, send him a congratulations.
2. Congratulate the coordinators at the clinic you visit.
3. Spread the word about the holiday on social media with the #nahuc hashtag.

When is Health Unit Coordinators Day celebrated in 2022?

Health Unit Coordinators Day is observed on August 23 each year.

Observations