Thank you for the informative articles regarding the loss of Maui Radiology Associates (The Maui News, June 23 and 24). Having worked in radiology elsewhere for many years, I realize this decision will definitely impact the quality of our medical care on Maui.
Patients don't realize the importance of highly qualified radiologists - they are in the background but they are the physicians who make recommendations to internists, surgeons, pediatricians, oncologists, etc., as to what course of action should be taken regarding a patient's care. Their correct interpretation of X-rays and procedures can make the difference between life and death.
Our Maui radiologists have proved to be top notch and have built the Maui Memorial Medical Center Radiology Department to be one of the best in the state. Our radiologists have made a commitment to the hospital and patients of Maui.
We should support our dedicated, extremely qualified Maui doctors and not outsource from a big Mainland corporation. Many of the doctors who work for these big corporations are part-timers who want to spend time on Maui, semi-retired or doctors who have a difficult time making it elsewhere.
I hope the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs will reconsider the recommendation of the 17 physicians comprising the hospital's Executive Committee in favor of Maui Radiology Associates. We need commitment to our Maui patients.
Janet Arnds
Lahaina
