Mercy’s ‘extra mile’ is now a dead end

It is a rare and precious gift when you can find a doctor who can see past mental health and addiction struggles to serve a person's medical needs. I found such a doctor in Monica Meeker. She has provided both professional and personal care for my daughter for the past couple of years. I see Dr. Meeker as someone who is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and fight for the underdog.

Therefore, you can imagine my surprise when I went to an appointment with my daughter recently and saw a sign stating that the MercyCare Health Partners clinic at 600 Seventh Street SE is closing on Nov. 30. When I asked why, I was told it was a financial decision. Many of the people who struggle with mental health and addiction are unable to work because of their condition and are on state insurance. I took the following information right off the Mercy website:

Mission: To care for the sick and enhance the health of the communities we serve, guided by the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy. Excellence: We are committed to being patient-centered and providing responsive and personalized care to ensure the best possible outcomes in a safe and holistic environment. We provide superior service and quality by going the extra mile for our patients, their families and our co-workers.

I guess this mission statement only applies to those who can afford it and the 'extra mile” has become a dead end street.

Diana Jackson

Cedar Rapids