Editor,

There is not much time to raise this important issue.

Throughout the last 20+ years of difficulties at Whidbey Hospital (WGH, WhidbeyHealth) there has been one constant. The hospital board. Bad decisions by the board are legendary, and I can cite many for you with quotes, as needed.

The decision that is being made currently to hire a management firm of debatable quality and reputation on a three-year contract is, I am afraid, another bad decision.

A far better option exists at this point. The hospital can submit a request for proposal to local hospital groups including the university, Providence, Swedish, Virginia Mason, and CHS.

For over 20 years “local control,” has meant “no control.“ A good hospital system with local resources, quality control and proven management can turn this around.

Affiliating with a well known and trusted hospital group will have a positive impact on the community. Local doctors will remain as well as local nurses and hospital support staff. Local medical personnel will be treated better, paid better, and will have prestige that they have not known up to this point.

As a local physician I am tired of having to refer my patients off island.

As a local taxpayer I am tired of paying money each year for a hospital that I do not trust, and will not allow my family to attend. We could change this and change it now.

Mark Borden MD, FAAEM

Coupeville