In the fall of 2009, I submitted a letter to this newspaper regarding the election between Aaron Heide and Mike Miller. I had observed Dr. Heide professionally since 2003, and I was concerned that the behavior I had seen in him would be detrimental to Valley Medical Center, if he were to be  elected to the Board of Commissioners of Valley Medical Center. Aaron has never seemed to demonstrate any interest in improving the medical care delivered by VMC to its community, but rather his actions have always seemed to be out of self interest in furthering his own career.

Unfortunately, Aaron Heide was elected, and my worst fears have come true. Anyone who has observed his rants during these hearings would likely be embarrassed that he represents an electorate that could not possibly have realized that this educated professional could act in such an unprofessional manner. Sadly, elections sometimes are decided by sound bytes and political rants, rather than insight in to the persona and qualifications of the candidate. Aaron Heide has no interest in improving Valley Medical Center, his competitor (he is paid director of the stroke service at Auburn Regional Medical Center). His motives appear selfish, not altruistic.

Our nation is a representative democracy in which some of our officials are elected and some are appointed. If the affiliation between UW Medicine and VMC comes to pass, the operations of VMC will be guided by five elected commissioners, five people appointed by the UW in consultation with many of our elected political officials, and three representatives of the most prestigious Medical Center in the Pacific Northwest. Yes, this may dilute Aaron Heide’s influence on the affairs of Valley Medical Center. Judging by his behavior at board meetings these past 14 months, I think that may be a good result.

Dr. Terence A. Block

cardiologist, Southlake Clinic Renton