How is new clinic not competition?

Regarding the June 27 article, “Expanded clinic to be built in Monroe.” One correction and two questions. First of all, Providence has not had a clinic in Monroe for 30 years; they purchased Monroe Family practice in 1995, hence only a 17-year presence. Two questions: 1) Why would there be a need to bring in a cardiologist, orthopedist, ear, nose and throat physician and a podiatrist when they already exist here, if not to compete with them?

And 2) If the new clinic is not meant to compete with Valley General Hospital, then why do they feel it is necessary to threaten local physicians to either become part of their system or be driven out via competition from their own doctors? Somehow the words of Providence do not seem to agree with their actions.

Charles R. Strub, MD

Monroe