Jackson, UM and community physicians met today to learn more about privatization efforts of Jackson’s Emergency Room services and discuss strategies to defeat the dangerous outsourcing proposals which threaten to alter the mission of our public hospital.
At the meeting, physicians voiced their concerns and frustrations with the misinformation that is being spread by Jackson’s management. Both Jackson’s doctors and admitting doctors agreed that they must work to get the truth out, and make sure their perspective on Jackson’s operations are heard. The reality they face everyday while trying to care for patients and carry out the mission of Jackson is much different, they said, than what is being portrayed. Everyone present agreed that keeping Jackson out of the hands of private companies is vitally important to the mission and quality of care they deliver.
Several obstacles were discussed at the meeting, such as the constant spread of misinformation about Jackson – whether it be the latest opinion page in The Miami Herald, inaccurate statements made by Financial Recovery Board members and Miami-Dade County commissioners or false statements made by Jackson CEO Carlos Migoya himself.
Physicians are among several other groups who are convening in an effort to defeat ER privatization, including women’s groups, students, faith leaders, retirees, and community leaders. The next step: Jackson’s doctors will be busy educating elected leaders and the community on the services provided in the Emergency Room through meetings with commissioners, Miami Herald Letters to the Editor, radio show interviews and community group meetings.
The move to stop Jackson’s ER privatization is quickly building throughout our community. We’ll keep you informed as the campaign unfolds!