Distressed and angry are just a couple of the emotions I felt after learning of the closing of state-run health clinics according to a Aug. 3 Tribune article. This action is a perfect example of those in power deciding the fate of those who have no voice.
Statements from patients and physicians concerning the Salt Lake clinic specifically describe an example of healthcare at its best: yearslong relationships; compassionate and trusted providers; medical, dental and psychological care; accessible and affordable. Isn’t that what we all desire for ourselves and our families?
Rep. Paul Ray, R-Clearfield, seems to believe that this kind of health care can be easily replaced. His reasoning is that many medical clinics will do pro bono work or will accept those who are now on the expanded Medicaid program. What dream world is he living in? The reality is that replacing a longtime trusting relationship with a medical provider or finding a good therapist that is even taking new patients is next to impossible.
Rep. Ray Ward, a physician, said that he felt bad that he had to vote to defund these three clinics, and the 13,000 patients that will be affected will have the inconvenience of finding another clinic. This is not just an inconvenience. Thousands of senior citizens, children, hard-working parents and many homeless people will be without a safe place to go to receive much-needed, and many times, life-saving care. Do we really want to do this?
With all the fiscal waste and questionable expenditures that we know are happening within our state government, why can’t our legislators find the dollars to save these clinics? Contact your representatives. We are learning that in 2020, silence from us is no longer an option.
Judy Garcia, West Haven