Editor:

At this writing, it occurs to me that the emergency room doctor may not have considered that although Medicare is our first insurance, we have backup coverage with Anthem/Blue Cross. He had that information so they probably have the same guidelines. 

This is a public expression of thanks to the SMMC Visiting Nurses who saved the day when my handicapped 85-year-old husband was declared well enough to go home rather than stay at the hospital overnight, following a headfirst fall down six steps into concrete and a ride in what I have come to call the “911 Wagon.” No broken bones, no concussion symptoms, but considerable professional bandaging was required beginning with a turban size to protect the forehead, that was healed in about two weeks using progressively smaller ones. Not to mention the knee and hand and footcare.

Nevertheless, in my letter to President Obama’s healthcare team, I mentioned that it would be good for Medicare to consider covering such a first night hospital visit. The physical therapist from SMMC Visiting Nurses took my husband for a walk with the handicap stroller today from The Farragut to Stop & Shop, to ascertain that he has gained back the strength to go shopping independently. The therapist will return for one more week, for which I am most grateful. The Visiting Nurses kept our spirits up during a time when I didn’t feel competent to take responsibility for the bandaging and other related services.

Mrs. Everett R. Nordstrom

Kennebunk