To the editor:
After reading the article "Recovery won't be easy" it is imperative that I clear up several issues. It is not the Badlands Human Service Center's problem that St. Joseph's Hospital is having some difficulties.
1. When the hospital decided to drop in-patient addiction treatment, it was the center that hired the staff and continued the outpatient addiction treatment program.
2. When the hospital dropped outpatient psychological services, it was again the Badlands Human Service Center that stepped up to the plate and continued the service.
3. The Badlands Human Service Center has had a long-standing contract with St. Joseph's for psychiatric services with the provision the hospital recruit the psychiatrist. What have they done so far?
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4. The HSC has had a long-standing contract with St. Joe's for crisis beds for those persons with a serious mental health issue. The implication that the HSC has not been cooperative is unfair and totally uncalled for. Once again, the Badlands Human Service Center has stepped up to continue a facility for alcohol and drug treatment.
5. The hospital may have some serious issues, but they are not due to a lack of cooperation from the Badlands Human Service Center. When the culture, attitude and leadership of St. Joseph's Hospital changes, they will be on the road to recovery.
It now appears that they have made a good start and the hospital needs to take responsibility for the issues and not place the blame on others.
L. Joe Fry
Dickinson
Former regional director
Badlands Human Service Center
