Objection smacks of arrogance

SHARMLA DHARAMALINGAM of Cresslawn writes:

It is ludicrous to read in Kempton Express that Arwyp Medical Centre has objected to the provincial government’s plans to reopen Kempton Park Hospital.

I am further appalled to read the comments of Arwyp’s marketing official’s justification. Quote: “There is an over-supply of private hospital beds in the Kempton area, as well as a shortage of doctors and nursing staff, not to mention pharmacists.”

Arwyp’s self-serving position is absurd. A lack of capacity is hardly a justifiable objection as to why Kempton Hospital cannot reopen. Is it not logical to address the capacity constraints in Kempton Park, instead of objecting to the community benefiting from affordable health care?

Arwyp’s objection smacks of arrogance. This is not a matter of five-star hotels, bed counts and profitability. The issue here should be residents of Kempton Park having the convenience of affordable health care. I am fully convinced the benefit to Kempton Park residents outweighs Arwyp’s flimsy, self-serving objection.

Middle income earners like myself are not looking for five-star hospitals. We want peace of mind that our medical aid covers our medical needs, without us having to cough up to ‘top-up’ excessive medical costs.

I am on the second highest level with my medical aid company and as a resident in the area, I have used Arwyp and have bemoaned their absurd high costs.

I always have to cover the ‘out of contract’ rates the practitioners charge. Personally I fully support Kempton Hospital reopening and I am certain, others like me, will enjoy the benefit of affordable health care, instead of paying extortionist high prices?

This should not be a matter for Arwyp to decide but rather let it be put to the vote of the residents of Kempton Park. All in favour of Kempton Park Hospital reopening, let your voices be heard.