I was surprised and disheartened to receive a letter informing me that Sutter Lakeside Hospital is closing the Wellness Center. Having been a nurse in Lakeside”s Intensive Care Unit for 27 years, I understand the importance of exercise. So many of my patients were in poor physical condition due to lack of activity. The vision put forth by Sutter to create a place where the community could enjoy a variety of classes and activities to promote a healthy lifestyle is spot on, now more than ever. One of the few tools left to stem the tide of rising health costs is “preventive health care”. It is more than just a slogan; it is really true.
When the Wellness Center was created, its outreach program educated the community to the facility”s benefits.
Weight machines, workout equipment, yoga and pilates classes led by excellent teachers, and a variety of other classes to satisfy everyone in one location. It was unique, something that Lake County really needed. Not just a place to break a sweat but a place to come together and feel better about yourself.
As to why the Center is closing I really don”t know. Is it costing too much? Hundreds of paying members must count for something. What exactly does non-profit mean and how does Sutter meet that criteria?
It seems that Sutter is losing their vision if supporting Preventive Health is no longer a top priority. I would like to know what Sutter means by a community based hospital if the needs of the community are not met.
Aaltje “Tje” Koski
Upper Lake
