Editor:
With the preponderance of click bait gotcha, shockya headlines, we news consumers have become somewhat unshockable. The experience Anna Nusslock endured at St. Joe’s hospital broke through that wall (“State Sues St. Joseph Hospital,” Oct. 3).
As stated in the press release about the lawsuit against St. Joe’s hospital, ( Thank you Attorney General Bonta), Anna Nusslock arrived at the ER in medical distress after her water broke at 15 weeks. The doctor confirmed she could die without the needed care and then refused to treat her, citing hospital policy. (Policy set by catholic bishops, the celibate men who demand fealty from the faithful because they know all about this kind of stuff).
So many questions arise: What are the consequences if the doctor, who was “not permitted to provide” care, rejected the policy and honored her Hippocratic Oath? Rather than handing off a bucket filled with towels, why not call an ambulance for transport? And what prohibited a heads up to Mad River hospital that a critical patient was en route?
Given the disregard for state law, as well the stark lack of humanity, some serious investigative work and regulatory oversight is needed. Apologies and fines are a good start, but this rises to a need for community protection from religious zealotry.
Anna Nusslock had such courage to share her story for the benefit of others. I am very grateful and full of admiration for Anna Nusslock. And I can’t help but hope that those who were involved in the horrors of that night will learn, and resolve to emulate her courage going forward.
Sheila Evans, Eureka
Editor:
Shame on St. Joseph Hospital and anyone who supports their policy. Don’t you dare claim to be pro-life.
Garrett Snedaker, Eureka
This article appears in Combating the Barred Owl Invasion.