DHSS Press Release |
Date: August 20, 2007 DHSS-88-2007 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DHSS RESPONDS TO HEARINGS FORMAT
Meconi expresses shock and disappointment at the revealed format
New Castle - In a letter to House Majority Leader Richard C. Cathcart, Delaware Health and Social Services Cabinet Secretary, Vincent P. Meconi responded to today's announcement revealing the format for the public hearings being conducted on the Delaware Psychiatric Center (DPC) on Tuesday from 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the House Chamber of Legislative Hall in Dover.
"I wanted to go on record expressing my shock and disappointment that, after weeks of unfounded and unsubstantiated claims being made against the DPC, my senior leadership team and I will not have the opportunity to address the members of the panel and the public with facts and information that they absolutely need in gaining an understanding of the hospital, its patients and its staff,"said Meconi. "This format, to say the least, is a great disservice to panel members and anyone else who is truly interested in receiving facts regarding the DPC and its operations."
The Secretary's letter strongly urged Rep. Cathcart to reconsider the format as presented and provide DHSS and DPC staff the professional courtesy of being allowed to inform the members of the panel and the citizens of Delaware with full facts and information on broad questions and specific issues that may be raised in the August 21st hearing.
"An opportunity to speak and respond 3 weeks later is not an effective way to dialogue and attain understanding of the complex mission and operations of the Delaware Psychiatric Center," explained Meconi. "A format allowing for open dialogue during both hearings between myself, hospital leadership, and your panel is the least that our patients and employees deserve in this discussion."
If Rep. Cathcart does not reconsider his format, DHSS is requesting that the panel obtain signed waivers from employees who allege any misconduct or retaliation so that DHSS may engage in an open discussion on the issues that are raised. Likewise, signed waivers should be obtained from any patients or their family members who make any claim of inadequate or inappropriate treatment so that DHSS may respond to the specific concerns raised. Signed waivers allowing the Department to provide full facts and information on employee and patient issues is, without question, the only way that panel members can feel that they have participated in a valid, fact-finding process.
"Any other format lacks credibility and only contributes to ongoing allegations that undermine the staff and patients at this very important facility," added Meconi."
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
