To the editor:

I have been following the recent news stories regarding the ongoing discussion about the re-establishment of Lawrence Memorial Hospital’s inpatient mental health unit. In the most recent story, “Widow left to wonder if suicide could have been avoided,” I found LMH CEO Gene Meyer’s comment about the number of people treated in the emergency room last year for a mental health issue to be appalling.

If 900 people had to go to the ER, because that was their only option of care, then it seems to me that there is a definite need for mental health services in this community. I realize LMH’s plight in wanting to be certain that the facility is viable; however, it seems to me that something is better than nothing at all.

It appears as if there is always plenty of support for cancer units and cardiac care facilities, but when it comes to mental health care, it is a topic of consternation. The problem is that it is not a money maker, and no one wants to admit it. Wouldn’t it be nice if LMH could pave the way and be a first-rate mental health facility in eastern Kansas? I challenge them to try.

Diane Lindeman,

Lawrence