Speeches by Secretary Elaine L. Chao
Archived Speech — Caution: Information may be out of date.
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao
Remarks at Mattel
Children’s Hospital
UCLA Medical Center
Los Angeles,
California
September 18, 2002
Good Afternoon. First, let me thank all involved at UCLA Medical Center for making my visit so special. And I want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Quiej for giving me the unforgettable opportunity to see their beautiful daughters. May God bless them both and speed their recovery.
When I heard about the twins’ surgery and remarkable road to recovery, it was important for me to come here personally and commend the nursing team that cares for them. It has been a pleasure to meet and talk with them today.
While much attention has been paid to the skilled surgeons who accomplished this miracle, we also need to remember that skilled nursing care was crucial to the successful outcome as well.
It is important to note that, even as we speak, there are other nurses inside this building making equally significant contributions to their patients’ lives.
Our nation’s nurses are called to care everyday, touching the life of every patient in their charge. Sadly though, fewer and fewer Americans are entering this noble profession. As a result, our country is in desperate need of nurses, nursing assistants and nursing support personnel.
The problem is compounded by our success: the baby boom generation is aging and living longer, placing greater burdens on the health care system.
Today, I issue a very specific appeal—for more Americans to follow the Call to Care that these men and women say “yes” to everyday.
As Secretary of Labor, I lead the government Department responsible for helping Americans who are looking for a new job or greater opportunity.
Well, here is one of the best opportunities I know of for a rewarding, long-term career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that about one million job openings for registered nurses will be created by 2010.
I want Americans to know that if they have the desire to enter the nursing profession—whatever their economic or educational status—there are many resources available to help them achieve that goal. There are programs to help you sponsored by the Department of Labor, HHS, the private sector and the Department of Defense.
If you dream of making such a difference in the life of others, I hope you will seek out a career in nursing.
Thank you again to all of you for having me here today. It has been such a pleasure to meet you.
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Archived Speech — Caution: Information may be out of date.
