A recent series of front-page articles suggested Providence Everett Medical Center (PEMC) is unsafe. As a doctor, my primary concern is with my patients’ safety. Looking at the facts, I see there were issues with transfusion documentation, with facility airflow, and in documenting equipment maintenance. I was reassured to see that not one issue related to patient care or patient safety. But paperwork that accurately reflects care delivered is essential. PEMC’s prompt response was necessary, since patient safety is paramount.
I’ve spent 26 years in cardiology here at our Everett Medical Center. I’ve seen my neighbors rushed in with heart attacks, broken legs, and injured in terrible accidents. Some are so sick it looks like they can’t survive. And every day I’ve seen miracles happen at Providence-Everett, with desperately ill patients saved to live a normal life.
I’ve worked in 11 different hospitals through my medical career. Not one has been up to the level of PEMC in terms of top physicians, caring and competent nurses and modern high-tech facilities.
Let’s look at the facts: In 2000 PEMC was rated one of the top 100 hospitals in the United States; in 2001 the No. 1 heart hospital in Washington, and in 2002 the No. 1 hospital for vascular surgery.
My sister has a perfect driving record, with no accidents and no tickets for 30 years. If she’s stopped for a burnt-out brake light, or left her proof of insurance at home, she needs to correct these problems quickly. But these don’t mean that it isn’t safe to drive with my sister.
I’m lucky to have my sister, and my community is lucky to have the state’s top medical center right here in Everett.
President
The Everett Clinic
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