I was greatly disappointed to read the recent article that inferred that there was some kind of loophole by which Goold Health Systems won state of Maine contracts during Joe Bruno’s time as CEO (Jan. 4). I have been with this company for 10 and one-half years and nothing could be further from the truth.

It is completely inaccurate to suggest that Bruno used his influence in the Maine State Legislature to provide government contracts to Goold. As a business leader and pharmacist, he was an advocate for common sense health care management practices and was transparent about his employment relationships. He left this company nearly eight years ago.

If the Sun Journal or anyone else thinks there is a “loophole” concerning disclosure that needs to be closed, then convince the Legislature to enact legislation, but don’t condemn current and former quality public officials such as Joe Brannigan, Brenda Harvey, Arthur Lerman, Joe Bruno, and others based on a perception of a problem. Maine is better than that.

GHS has been a proud partner of the state of Maine and other clients for more than 37 years, providing health care management in a productive and transparent way. For example, by maximizing the pharmacy benefit, we helped to save the state hundreds of millions of dollars in Medicaid costs through the years.

The 200-plus Goold employees take their responsibilities seriously and to suggest an impropriety without factual basis is inaccurate and unfair.

Jim Clair, Augusta

Chief Executive Officer, Goold Health Systems