We have an excellent EMS agency, but its recent history has been tortured to say the least. Our community survived the Kaiser insurance debacle. And, we’ve suffered from the State’s Medicaid Fraud investigation, a misguided effort to punish providers who did the best they could to provide lifesaving care in our isolated setting.

Now, thanks to the hard work of our Hospital District Commissioners, concerned citizens and staff, the planned merger of San Juan EMS and Fire Districts will provide a more secure and efficient emergency response system for all of us.

Please join me in thanking the outgoing district commissioners for their many years of service. And, in giving best wishes to the incoming commissioners to master the challenging work that lies ahead.

Loren Johnson, MD

San Juan Island