To the Editor:

I was dismayed to read, as I have for years, another push to close Parkview hospital (“State must reject bid to ‘save’ Parkview,” p. A6, Jan. 30).

Why, and who benefits from this? Not the patients, as the “estimate” of $24 million to be saved does not mean those savings will be passed to the consumer or increase the pay of the lowest-paid staff.

Parkview has a wonderful program that saves lives called Healthy Choices, as their mission has always been preventative and wellness. Mid Coast since has made a version of it. One of the many reasons we need two hospitals is that competition often spurs innovative growth.

Two hundred and ninety people work at Parkview. It would really hurt them and the local economy if those people lost their jobs. Mid Coast has been buying medical practices that were independent and, sadly, excellent doctors have left.

Both hospitals have good nursing care. However, Mid Coast’s bottom line appears to be profit and expansion. Parkview’s bottom line is the whole person, giving each patient excellent, high-quality, professional medical care.

Keeping in-town Parkview means an ambulance can arrive at the hospital quickly. Traffic jams and added summer traffic from Brunswick Landing events on Bath Road can greatly delay arriving at the furthest facility.

For 50-plus years, Parkview, our in-town hospital, has been saving lives. I am not associated with Parkview or their religious beliefs.

Marji Greenhut
Brunswick