Letter: UNM emergency room surpasses reputation

Editor,

My husband and I have each had to be admitted to an emergency room during the past summer, and we chose the facility at the University of New Mexico. I know a lot of middle-income people who choose to go to a different hospital because they have heard that the UNM emergency room is inadequate, understaffed or full of detoxing homeless people - not the best place to go.

I was one of those people, until after the recent employee insurance coverage change. Because I was uncertain about where I could go, I chose the place I knew was covered no matter what.

This letter is my attempt to spread the word that the UNM emergency room is nothing but efficient and the staff is conscientious, highly trained and thorough. Their cramped space does make it seem chaotic - there were patients in the hallways and passageways, but they were not forgotten.

Despite the overcrowded building, these professionals keep an eye on every patient. My problem was not a major priority and so I was in a hallway, but I never felt that I was less important than anyone else. In fact, the doctor listened to me and sensed that I was scared and confused. He sat for a long while with my X-rays, patiently and simply explaining what was happening and addressing all of my concerns.

This was so much more time and explanation than I have ever received from my retail doctor - the supposed specialist.

One incident that totally impressed me occurred when a violent crime victim was brought in by an ambulance - the teamwork was phenomenal. There was no question about what needed to happen or who was to perform. The entire team performed its job well and without hesitation. The focus and concentration was superb.

I have since changed my primary care physician to a UNM staff physician, and I am totally pleased with the attentive treatment I have received. The entire staff of doctors, physician assistants, nurses and techs are extremely respectful, compassionate and confident. My husband and I are convinced that they all are truly dedicated to healing and are not in the medical business for the money.

I would like to publicly and sincerely thank the entire staff, especially Dr. Darren Braude, Dr. Michael Richards, physician assistant Jeff Danska, a tech named Todd - who performed the best blood draw ever - and Nurse Technician Rochelle Ortolano. All of you are outstanding and exceptional.

Patti Sanchez

UNM employee