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. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman