Letter to the Editor: For Superior Service, Support the Levy

 — by Greg Ayers —

Twenty-four hours.

I have been a physician and an executive for over 3 decades, so I can recognize quality patient care and superior leadership. In medicine, it’s not just costs, but cost effectiveness. In leadership, it’s motivating and guiding a team to achieve a common goal. Recently I observed both within 24 hours.

I was awakened at 03:47, the start of my day. I was serving a volunteer duty shift at Station 21. We were called to help one of our fellow residents who was having cardiac problems. We arrived to find a gentleman who was clearly in distress. Over the next 3 hours he received superior medical care. Care that was as good, if not better than he would have received in King County. During the event, a highly skilled paramedic, a physician on the phone, and no fewer than 6 volunteers provided medical care at a cost less than a trip to the ER. As far as quality – I learned later in the day that the patient was doing well. Tests showed he had not suffered a stroke; a substantial risk given his medical situation. This was cost effective care.

To finish my 24 hours – the Deer Harbor Marina fire. Upon my arrival, I found a propane tank burning, risking explosion. I helped to apply water to the tank in order to prevent catastrophe. I was 50 yards from the tank when a hand touched my shoulder. I was asked how I was doing. I looked up to see Chief O’Brien, out with the troops, motivating and guiding the team. I no longer focused only on the tank exploding; my thoughts changed to winning the battle. His leadership was paramount in guiding over 40 volunteers to achieve a common community goal.

While you consider the OIFR levy, I encourage you to review the data. We are provided with cost effective health care, rivaled by none. We have leadership that oversees a limited professional staff and motivates a team of volunteers. Summary – We all receive superior service. I encourage you to support the levy.