To the editor:

Re: “Eldercare inspections under fire,” (J-W Jan. 30).

The long-term care industry has been on a multimillion-dollar mission for the last 10 years to “partner” with its overseers. It has succeeded nicely in Kansas

Allowing facility officials to accompany state inspectors during the inspection process is one of the worst things that can happen to those living in long-term care facilities.

In effect, the state of Kansas is using Saddam Hussein tactics to silence long-term care residents and staff. That this despicable practice is actually in effect speaks to the power and influence of the long-term care industry.

This practice effectively ensures the silence of the staff and the residents. Staff is afraid to answer questions truthfully for fear of losing their jobs. Residents, vulnerable and at the mercy of their caretakers, do not dare complain about poor care in front of those who may be providing the substandard care.

The people of Kansas have two options: They can call the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and demand that federal funds are withdrawn from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment; and they can call their legislators and demand an in-depth audit of the KDHE.

It is imperative that the citizens, the press, the governor, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Medicare Fraud Control Units question and challenge this unethical practice.

Having constant access to the inspectors for days on end while the residents have no one to speak for them must be a dream come true for the long-term care industry.

Violette King, president,

Nursing Home Monitors

Godfey, Ill.