To the editor:
It would seem that the Lakeridge Health Hospital Board and the Central East Local Integrated Health Network are playing Russian roulette with our health.
They are trying to close a much-needed Pulmonary Respiratory Rehabilitation program to save money. Data proves that for every dollar spent on rehabilitation $1.70 is saved in additional costs to hospitals.
They are closing this program that costs a mere $160,000 for the rental of premises and complete staffing. Documentation shows that most of the people on this board make this much in salary. Why not cut a few board members?
The Ontario Lung Association and the Ontario Nursing Association are also against the closure of this facility, knowing full well that the cancellation of this will mean more exacerbations and longer hospital stays, because the newly diagnosed patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) will not be given the necessary education to enable them to effectively manage this lung disease.
COPD is now the fourth largest killer of Canadians. It ranks just behind heart disease, stroke and cancer. A simple spirometry test will determine your lung function. A simple, non-invasive procedure should be a part of every yearly physical check up. Let's put a stop to putting dollars and cents before the welfare of our patients. Let our political leaders know how you feel about this issue.
Barry H. Brooks
Whitby
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