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I would like to commend Jennifer Vogt-Erickson for her exposé article in the Nov. 27 edition of the Albert Lea Tribune. Being political polar opposites, it is rare we agree on anything.

Jennifer hit this one out of the park, and I respect her for the effort she put into this article.

Presently Mayo’s primary focus appears to be image, money and control. I have no idea where the patient fits into Mayo’s current business plan. In the past I was very comfortable with the level of care I received in the Mayo system. That confidence began to wane about 10 years ago. It became obvious that I was nothing but a number in their system. Instead of a specialist I now had a “team” of doctors. The problem was I never saw the same doctor twice. Each new doctor would spend a couple of minutes reviewing my chart ask a couple of questions and make a judgment for continuing care without listening to my concerns, or consulting with other physicians that were caring for me. As one ages, most medical issues and medications needed for treatment become interrelated.

Recently I needed to go to an emergency room on a Sunday. I opted to bypass the Albert Lea ER and go to Mason City. I was impressed — the attending doctors and nurses they were polite and efficient. I received a panel of blood tests, IV fluids, EKGs, X-rays, a CAT scan and appointments for follow-up tests. I have been in countless ERs with family members across the country. I rate Mason City’s Mercy One as one of the best.

Currently I am seeing a neuro-ophthalologist in Mayo Rochester for a vision problem, each exam requires procedures by three to four technicians taking two to three hours, because of unnecessary wait times between procedures, before seeing the doctor for maybe four minutes. In the winter I also see a neuro-ophthalologist in Mesa, Arizona. One technician does all the tests, from the check-in, updating my chart, receiving a vision test, eye pressure test, dilating drops, field of vision test, photos of my retinas before seeing the specialist who fully explains my status and prognoses the process takes less than an hour.

My wife has a chronic health problem, and her doctor at Mercy One suggested she see a rheumatologist. After filling out a questionnaire online, Mayo rheumatology declined to see her.

She went online and located a qualified rheumatologist at Olmsted County Clinic and received a diagnosis that answered questions about diverse, reoccurring symptoms that have been tormenting her for decades.

I respect the doctors at the Albert Lea Mayo Clinic, but have lost all confidence in the Mayo system. If you live in southeast Minnesota you are trapped in the Mayo system unless you are able to travel, which we are, but, it’s a hassle to have doctors in different clinics and frustrating to coordinate their findings.

However, if you have a life-threatening medical issue Mayo is place to be.

Don Sorensen
Albert Lea