Stay the course
Dr. Randal Claassen caused quite a stir this past week when he suggested Marion County Commission consider a countywide hospital.
We could almost hear the old-timers from Marion grumbling about "taking away our hospital." There probably were similar rumblings in Hillsboro.
A countywide hospital or consolidation is a volatile, emotional issue.
It may take outside help to determine all the facts and gather all the needed information. Regardless, it won't be a quick decision. It might not be decided for years.
In the meantime, Marion County Hospital District #1 board of directors has decided to stay the course and continue with plans outlined for the future of St. Luke Hospital.
That's a smart idea.
While all the fact-gathering is occurring, the everyday operation of the hospital must continue. It's wise not to get bogged down in the "what-ifs" of things that may or may not happen.
The public will grumble and rumble. The topic will be cussed and discussed in coffee shops and on the street. Everyone will have an opinion.
But when it comes down to it, whether it's next year or 10 or 20 years from now, a decision is inevitable.
We hope those who make that decision will be as focused as the current hospital board and patient enough to weigh all the options.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
