Why are you interested in serving on the hospital board? Serving on the hospital board is one way I can give back to the community. I have some experience to offer, and I hope I can assist the board in planning for the future.

How can PAHCS recruit more providers, especially primary care physicians? Recruitment of providers is very difficult as there are fewer doctors being trained. Many doctors wish to stay in metropolitan areas and work in clinics only. We must find the unique provider who wishes to practice in a rural setting and who also wants to work in hospital, emergency room, and clinic settings.

We must keep our equipment and facilities "state of the art," so we can recruit the providers and meet the needs of the consumers in our area. Investing in the growth and development of our community and schools is vital in the recruitment and retention of providers and families.

Would you support a tax levy to build a new hospital in Paynesville? If it is determined after much study and positive input from the area consumers that a new facility is needed, I would support a tax levy.

How important is it for PAHCS to remain an independent health care organization? What needs to be done to insure that PAHCS remains so? It is important for PAHCS to remain independent as it helps define our community. PAHCS is a large employer, and they offer a much-needed service to the area. If PAHCS is purchased or taken over by someone, many jobs and services could be in jeopardy.