Have you ever wondered why citizens of Mississippi have a difficult time obtaining good healthcare, or why folks in rural counties are often left with less that optimal healthcare options? To answer that question, look no further than our own government bureaucrats and politicians.

 

This month the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure sent a thinly veiled threat to physicians in a letter from Executive Director Kenneth Cleveland. In the letter, doctors are reminded that in Mississippi they are not free to practice medicine and give medical advice based on their knowledge and expertise, but must “obey” orders from the Department of Health and the Governor.

 

In the October 1, 2020 letter doctors are told, “Orders from the Mississippi Department of Health (MSDH) and the Governor's office are legally binding orders and should be obeyed...”

 

Does the Mississippi Department of Health or the Governor review my medical records before demanding my doctor obey their orders? Maybe instead of spending time visiting a doctor, the people of Mississippi should just call the Governor's office and get his advice first.

 

When Republicans were fighting against Obamacare one of the constant themes was “government should not get between a doctor and patient” but in Mississippi the Medical Board has reminded doctors that indeed they are in control of everyone's healthcare, not the doctor. It seems in Mississippi our government has embraced the Democrat platform of government run healthcare.

 

In 2020 we have witnessed unprecedented government expansion into our daily lives, our governor has issued orders and inserted himself into the healthcare decisions of every citizen and the state health department has reaped millions of federal dollars to fund their expanded role into the lives of citizens. Like any government agency, the MSDH must now justify their expanded role and do whatever it takes to ensure they continue to receive the increased funding.

 

This letter does not represent how a conservative government treats its people or the healthcare professionals in our state. This letter indicates that our government and the people who work for the people of Mississippi do not understand their proper place. The Mississippi Department of Health is not in charge of anyones healthcare. Healthcare is between you and your doctor, not between you, the governor, the department of health, and your doctor.

 

It's time Governor Reeves puts the people first, ahead of the this out-of-control state agency.