Editor,

Having worked as a physician at a major hospital in New York City for nearly 30 years before moving to Whidbey Island, I have a deep appreciation for the integrity, goodwill and cooperative spirit that are needed in running a hospital. Since moving to Whidbey 15 years ago, I am glad to say that the many experiences both my husband and I have had at Whidbey General Hospital were very positive. It is a gem of a hospital, and we feel fortunate that it is here.

Because I care about WGH and its ability to function as an independent entity that is sensitive to the needs of our unique community, I feel moved to comment on the upcoming election of hospital board members.

The impression Rob Born made on me over the past months is extremely negative. In his various online postings, he comes across to me as overly opinionated and polarizing. His strident, argumentative and hyper-critical comments, his adversarial style, and his lack of relevant experience in the arena of hospital management all lead me to conclude that his election to the board would be very detrimental to the smooth and independent functioning of the medical facility that serves our island.

From my perspective, Georgia Gardner is by far the better and more qualified candidate. She has extensive and relevant experience, including past service on the WGH board; management skills and many years of work as a certified public accountant working in both the public and private sector, and experience as a state legislator dealing with difficult, multifaceted issues.

In addition, Gardner has a far more collaborative spirit, a quality that is absolutely essential to the smooth management of a major institution like our hospital.

Betsy MacGregor, M.D.

Langley