Critical need for ICU beds

I’ve worked in the Sacred Heart ICU for many years. Most days, we are lucky if we have one open bed to admit a trauma victim or other critically ill patient. There is no question in my mind that we desperately need more ICU beds.

While it is true that certain types of patients will seek care at Deaconess because of its acquisition of Rockwood Clinic, all the serious trauma patients brought to Spokane from a four-state area end up at Sacred Heart (the only remaining Level II trauma center in the Inland Northwest).

I am outraged that the owners of Deaconess continue to try to inhibit Sacred Heart’s request for more ICU beds. They are putting their profit margin ahead of the needs of people in crisis.

Clark Peterson

Cheney