I read with amusement Captain Larry Foukas’ description of the medical coverage at La Plata County Jail (Herald, July 29.) Foukas stated staffing cost $629,000. This was not the case. The jail staffed four registered nurses and one licensed practical nurse, the same plan Southern Health Partners is proposing. Each nurse would have made in excess of $100,000 per year.
Foukas has the cost of providing medical care and salaries confused. The $629,000 covered both salaries and all medical costs. Foukas failed to mention the contract with SHP doesn’t cover mental health care. Mental health coverage was and continues to be provided by Axis Health.
When I resigned in February 2015, more than 50 percent of the incarcerated population was treated or counseled for mental health issues. Sheriff Smith phased out an RN position and overtime in October 2015 for medical. It was impossible to provide the coverage he demanded especially when also trying to cover sick and vacation days.
Foukas stated at times there was no medical coverage; this was true for reasons stated above. He failed to mention both the physician and I were on call 24/7.
The jail policy and procedure manual provides for deputies to pass medications when necessary. The nurse prepared the medication packets. The deputy simply had to verify the correct inmate was receiving the medication. Deputies were given eight hours of medical training and must demonstrate competency prior to being cleared to pass medications.
Last, the remaining nurses applied with SHP, but SHP declined to hire them with the exception of an RN hired in February 2016 from Denver who has since resigned. Income from five local nurses and other health care providers is now flowing to Tennessee, not exactly keeping local dollars local.
When the November 2018 election cycle is here, question what Sheriff Sean Smith and his staff state as fact. Check how he is spending your tax dollars and decide if he is truly being a careful steward with your tax money or spending with reckless abandon.
Wesley Rivera
Former La Plata County Jail medical administrator
Mancos
