As one who was active in hospitals and health care in Pittsburgh for many years (I was the CEO of Suburban General Hospital for 35 years), I have been appalled at the knockout competitive spirit in some quarters of our "not-for-profit" community service organizations.

Sure you want to do better than the other guy but not kill him if he is providing a quality community service! But if we must live in such a situation, I am delighted to see the approval of the Highmark-West Penn Allegheny Health System arrangement.

Here's hoping both Highmark and UPMC not only survive but also thrive so that the great personal and professional caregivers we have can continue their valuable service to the community.

JOHN B. MALLON
Ross

First Published: May 15, 2013, 4:00 a.m.