May 16, 2002 2 min read

Looking for shipmates Dear Editor:

We are part of a group of veterans who were assigned duty on the USS Sperry.

For a military reunion, we are trying to locate shipmates who served on our ship during the period of 1942-1982.

Anyone with information should contact:

George Gallas, secretary, USS Sperry (AS-12) Association, 116 S. Higby St., Jackson, MI 49203-1521, by phone 517-784-7810 or e-mail: george-carole@modempool.com.

George Gallas

Jackson, MI

Healthy report card

Dear Editor:

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council recently reported that patient mortality rates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery dropped 13 percent from 1995 to 2000. In a media release from PHC4, Marc P. Volavka, executive director of the state agency, said “The quality of care provided by Pennsylvania’s cardiac surgeons and hospitals, already excellent, keeps getting better and better.”

Working in health care is not easy these days. A consolidated health insurance market combined with a liability insurance crisis being driven by out-of-control personal injury lawyers who have a 70 percent error rate is making it tough.

But, it is good to know that while others attempt to drive a wedge between doctor and patient, healthcare professionals are working to ensure quality care. Our doctors, nurses, hospitals, and others all deserve a pat on the back for their fine skills.

Credit for quality care also should be given to advancements in medicine as well as in patient safety.

Years ago without bypass surgery many patients died unnecessarily at a young age. Now, with new technologies, medicines and procedures, patients have a greater chance of extending their years.

Patient safety initiatives play a role in the success of health care at all levels. While humans make mistakes, we also can learn from those mistakes. Building an open culture of learning, instead of blame, produces positive results instead of driving mistakes underground.

Enhancing the patient-doctor relationship is vital in today’s health care world. It’s important that we never forget that this sacred relationship is the foundation of care.

The Pennsylvania Medical Society congratulates the state’s cardiac surgeons and their hospitals for a strong report card.

Roger F. Mecum, M.D.

Executive Vice President

Pennsylvania Medical Society