We are fortunate to have Mercy hospital here in our rural area. I have received good care when I’ve needed it, particularly from the infectious disease physicians. But these days, I wonder if there might be hidden troubles at the hospital, perhaps budgetary and/or staffing problems that show up as little hiccups in patient care.
My husband had a minor outpatient procedure at Mercy a couple of weeks ago. In the space of a few hours, the two of us noticed a nurse who could not stop yawning, a staffer who repeatedly called my husband the wrong name, a last-minute change of anesthesiologist (from one in scrubs to one in street clothes) and confusion on the part of the surgical desk staff about who they were to release.
What’s more, one professional disclosed to us that he was unhappy with the way Mercy was handling its staff.
Health care is a general mess in this country, we all know that, and patients aren’t the only ones impacted. I am sure it is difficult to run a hospital anywhere, rural or urban, balancing many challenges while ensuring great patient care. But when cracks in the facade become apparent, it’s hard not to lose confidence.
What’s going on at Mercy?
Cathy Enns
Bayfield
