Whidbey General: Past 'conflicts' no problem

This is in response to the article concerning Dr. Paul Zaveruha of Whidbey General Hospital and the hospital commissioner’s race.

Peter Borden, president of the Whidbey General Hospital board, has asked Dr. Zaveruha to withdraw from the race citing “conflict of interest” between being a commissioner and an employee at the same time.

I have worked at Whidbey General Hospital for 32 years. During this time Ted Christensen served as hospital commissioner and was the hospital pharmacist … he also owned the Coupeville Pharmacy. No one claimed conflict of interest.

Dr. Mark Gabrielsen served as hospital commissioner while maintianing his own private medical practice. No conflict was implied there, either.

In this election Mr. Borden appeared to be an unopposed candidate. Dr. Zaveruha believed that someone with a strong medical background would make a good alternative choice. Since Dr. Zaveruha announced his candidacy, Mr. Borden apparently withdrew from the race. Mr. Borden wants Dr. Zaveruha to withdraw also … citing possible conflicts of interest.

Now, Amy Ayers appears to want the commissioner’s position. Amy held a CEO position at Whidbey General Hospital until January of 2003, and then retired with one of the biggest retirement bonuses ever paid by the hospital.

Dr. Zaveruha is a skilled doctor who now holds the position of Director of Emergency Services at WGH. He is the kind of knowledgeable individual who would bring medical training and experience to the hospital commission … a definite plus.

Let’s get away from these political maneuers and put the right person in the job.

Jean Bintliff

Oak Harbor

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