Charlie's Letter To His Patients

Dear Patient,

As your doctor, I am writing you today to let you know about an important decision I have recently made. I have decided to run for a part-time position in the Florida House of Representatives. I'm writing to let you know that I will still be your doctor and will still be practicing medicine here in Vero Beach. As I've said many times, I love what I do, enjoy my patients, and enjoy practicing cardiology here in Vero Beach. I am glad to say I am not one of those "burned out doctors." I actually wake up every day grateful that I get to practice what I love doing in a community that I proudly call home, and I look forward to continue my practice for many more years.

That being said, however, there are many things going on at the State and Federal level which will impact all of us in so many ways, including how health care is delivered in this county. My interest in leadership in the health care arena has included being Chief of Cardiology, Medical Director of the Cardiac Cath lab at IRMC, and Chief of Staff for two years at IRMC. I currently serve as Duke Liaison for our new Heart Center and Medical Director of the Cardiac rehab service at the hospital.

As State Representative Stan Mayfield's eight-year term-limited tenure was approaching, I was encouraged by many people to consider running for his seat. Given the influence our federal and state governments have on our health care system, I felt there was a real need that doctors and patients had more representation in Tallahassee. That is why I have decided to run. As I mentioned, I am writing you, my patient, to assuage any concerns you may have. My patients will always be a priority, and I will plan my schedule accordingly. For the most part, most will see few changes, though I will likely take fewer new patients to balance the time demands. Should I be elected, I will be required to be in Tallahassee for several weeks spread throughout the year. With the hope of successfully winning the election in November 2008, I am already making plans to ensure that you receive the same level of care from my office during the days I will be in Tallahassee, which likely will include Saturday office hours.

If my run for office is successful, this change will take place in February of 2009. There will be no changes in my practice in 2008. Your understanding is greatly appreciated, but more importantly be assured that your health will remain the priority of this practice.

Sincerely,

Charles N. Celano, MD