To the Editor:

Although my address precludes me from voting in Portage County referendum Nov. 8 regarding the Portage County Health Care Center (PCHCC), I couldn’t agree more. The residents and employees impacted must be represented and this, in my opinion, necessitates a binding referendum to determine the fate of the PCHCC.

In our current political climate in Wisconsin, there are too many private interests bulldozing over the actual consumer.

My strong feelings on this issue are attributed to experiences and observations in the care of my grandmother, mother and father received during that most critical period bridging loss of independence and ultimately palliative care. Our entire family is so appreciative and challenged in expressing our deep-felt gratitude for their quality of care.

How this level of care came about is a direct reflection on the decades of community commitment, support and focus on providing an environment of life and respect. Sentiments are often expressed by my parents and grandmother. I’ve also had several relatives who received rehabilitation services at the PCHCC. They eventually returned to the community, better for the experience.

It should be noted I come from the perspective of 40 years as an advanced practice registered nurse, and I have been directly involved in nursing home inspections to evaluate level of care and best practice.

What PCHCC provides to its consumers is extremely difficult in the current economic climate of municipal budgetary restraints. I get that. However, I believe also that privatization, let’s be clear that’s what this proposal is, is not a situation to be subjected to the free market system. We’re talking about our loved one’s well-being, taken care of by staff supported by the belief that quality is worth far more than low-bid provisions of services.

When this support, belief, attitude, oversight and accountability is absent, it’s the consumer that receives the brunt of the consequences. Exceptions to privatization negatively impacting quality of care are identifiable, but quality of care does not seem to be the issue, rather a building infrastructure.

Simply stated, if quality of care isn’t broke, shouldn’t the discussion be on improving infrastructure that’s necessary? Let the people of Portage County decide. Their track record in the arena is better than most, in my opinion. Brick and mortar are one thing, client satisfaction and staff morale must be considered paramount.

Paul Helbach

Brule