Reconsider doctor contracts

An open letter to Drs. Olsen, Brininger, Bledsoe and Crossley:

My purpose in writing is to ask you to reconsider your decision to not renew the contract of Dr. Scott Baldridge. I firmly believe that Mountain Home cannot afford to lose this physician.

Dr. Baldridge has consistently proven himself to be an asset, not only to the group of physicians at Trinity Mountain, but also to the community. I have witnessed firsthand his ability to communicate and care for the youngest to the eldest of Mountain Home.

His medical expertise, care and concern for each and every one of his patients rises above the expectation one might have for a city of our size -- often reserved for those in much larger cities.

I, personally, appreciate the fact that his DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) status greatly enhances the practice in his ability to offer hands-on treatment through spinal manipulation and treatment. This allows me to utilize the clinic for more than just your standard medical treatment. This, too, is of great benefit to our community.

In addition, Dr. Baldridge and his staff understand the process of working with our retired and active military personnel, greatly easing additional stress for his patients.

The disruption to not only Dr. Baldridge and his family, but ultimately to his patients, is truly a human factor that should also be taken into consideration.

I am concerned, as a taxpayer, that this decision to not renew Dr. Baldridge's contract will end up costing the county money. The figure I have heard is $50,000 that will be targeted for the purpose of recruiting another physician for Mountain Home. In today's economy, this seems like an unwise use of taxpayer funds -- especially since there is already an extremely competent, willing, and well-liked physician already here, working and established, who more than adequately fits that need.

In conclusion, I have no false expectations that this letter will sway your decision. However, I do hope that just good business sense and a desire to do what is best for Mountain Home will.

M. Michelle Yalch