News & Observer | newsobserver.com | The true picture

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Published: Aug 27, 2008 12:30 AM
Modified: Aug 27, 2008 06:24 AM

The true picture

 

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I was as disturbed as anyone else to read about the recent problems at Cherry Hospital. However, there was one silver lining in this dark cloud that should not be overlooked. There were cameras in place (and working) to record what was happening.

This is a real step toward actual transparency, and whoever is responsible should be applauded. Cameras should be in place at all the state hospitals.

There is no doubt that there are very serious problems at state psychiatric hospitals. Only openness and a willingness to tackle these problems head-on will change the status quo.

Unfortunately, over the past six or seven years, this has not been the case. Employees willing to speak up are typically bullied and/or marginalized to keep them quiet. If true transparency does occur, there will be a lot more problems brought to the surface. This will be very painful, but there is no other way if things are going to truly improve.

Brian Sheitman, M.D., Cary

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The writer is a former clinical director at Dorothea Dix Hospital in Raleigh.
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