On Tuesday, May 22, a headline read, “NQ Chamber worried about patient safety.”
The article printed highlights the deterioration of the support for our central business district.
I’d like to make two points.
First: Mark Wright, North Quabbin Chamber of Commerce executive director, suggests that the local hospital at 2033 Main St. might close if government sets the number of nurses assigned to patients in hospitals. Presently, hospital executives and insurance employees set the number of nurses per patient. That is what Mr. Wright supports.
Second: How many hospitals has Mr. Wright worked in? How many patients with an income of less than $80,000 per year has Mr. Wright assisted in surviving a hospital visit? How many folks dear to Mr. Wright have tried to survive the blistering costs and heart-breaking lack of attention of a hospital visit when one attempts to hold insurance one can afford?
I agree with Mr. Wright that government is unreliable as a champion of the people. I do not agree that an increase of an aide and a registered nurse will increase the cost of care equal to the dire warning he sounds. I want his plan for improving the caregiver time with each desperate patient.
We must be clear as to why we support ballot questions. Having enough money available to pay the pharmacy rip-off is not a goal.
I suggest readers talk to a nurse about patient ratios. I do not suggest that you spend time in any hospital until we resolve this issue in the patient’s favor.
Lastly, I would see a plan by Mr. Wright for the resurrection of Athol’s two business centers using Athol’s reasoned Open Space Plan. North Quabbin Commons is a wonder. The years of planning and hard work by those involved are well-rewarded. The hugely important natural wetland behind Market Basket is performing wonderfully, despite all the activity. We can meet multiple goals, but we must think of our community first.
I thank the Athol Daily News for being here.
Earle Baldwin
Athol