To the editor:
Twice over the last five months, an issue with my spine caused me to travel to Baystate Hospital in Springfield for MRIs. With those difficult trips in mind, I read with interest Peter Most’s recent column “Image enhancement.” I was unaware that Fairview Hospital is the only hospital in the state without MRI capabilities. Given my recent experience, I must say that I think Mr. Most makes a compelling case for an MRI in Great Barrington.
The southern Berkshires has an aging population who, as the column pointed out, would benefit significantly from having ready access to an MRI. Having more robust capabilities at Fairview may also attract families and businesses to our area, which would help economic development and give a much-welcome boost to our schools and communities. The column also makes the point that a local MRI could avoid the time and expense of travel to Pittsfield or, in my case, Springfield.
Whatever the reasons were in the past for not locating an MRI at Fairview Hospital, I would ask that Berkshire Health Systems reconsider this decision, especially given how critical an MRI can be for certain diagnoses.
It would be a big plus not only for Great Barrington but for all the towns in South County.
Leigh Davis
Great Barrington
