Pubdate: Wed, 30 Aug 2006
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Seamus McGlynn, RN, MHSc

VIHA HEAD'S LETTER IS OUT OF TOUCH

Howard Waldner, the Vancouver Island Health Authority's chief 
executive officer, defends the health authority's record with classic 
ivory-tower explanations.

Waldner denies what Dr. Anthony Barale and others working in the 
front lines of mental health and addiction services have to say about 
their frustrations in helping those who are mentally ill, those who 
are addicted and those who have a combination of both, many of these 
people being homeless and transient.

I have worked for VIHA for more than 12 years and have felt the 
frustration over the disconnect between those at the top levels of 
VIHA bureaucracy and those at the front lines. Get switched on, Mr. 
Waldner. Start by listening to what's really happening. Your 
defensive letter tells me you're not.

Seamus McGlynn, RN, MHSc,

Retired team leader,

Mental Health and Addictions,

Nanaimo.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman