Imagine a scenario in which institutions of medical science cooperate with each other for the benefit of patients. Imagine patient welfare as a priority overshadowing a ledger’s preeminence.

Imagine hospital administrators finally understanding and embracing the values and philosophy represented by the caduceus – the winged staff and intertwined snake symbol of the medical profession.

Imagine an atmosphere in which compassion takes precedence over imperial aspirations. Sadly, these remain but a dream with no foundation in the Twin Cities.

In their latest rendition of juvenile hysteria, hospital administrators digress from their usual worn script. No longer complacent battling competition, St. Mary’s is targeting three physicians in a seemingly frivolous lawsuit. I do not profess understanding the legalities of such contracts between hospitals and physicians, much less the need for them. Unlike the industrial world, what possible trade secrets could doctors share with another hospital?

Limiting the practice of physicians to placate disgruntled administrators smacks of coercion. Despite hospital preference, patients have every right to expect treatment by their own doctors.

Imagine the health care system we would enjoy if boardroom demigod malcontents ever realized how tired, disgusted and fed up people are with soap opera shenanigans. However, for all their alleged relevance, for a stipend St. Mary’s administrators will tear up these contracts and look the other way.

Imagine, our physicians may purchase redemption for thirty pieces of silver.

How utterly predictable!

Roger R. Turcotte, Lewiston