Continuing on with our theme regarding health care...

You might want to check out this morning's article in the New York Times entitled, "Surgeon General Sees 4-Year Term as Compromised". Former Surgeon General Richard Carmona spoke to a Congressional panel, stating that during his four year term he had felt pressure to suppress public health report information for political reasons. Wow - more fuel for the consumer fire of outrage.

Don't miss reading further down in the article where it describes what Dr. Carmona is doing these days. He is now vice chairman of Canyon Ranch! How cool is that?

Although he has been affiliated with Canyon Ranch for some time now, his newfound notoriety will no doubt bring more awareness to his new surroundings. Not to mention it’s great for our industry to have someone of his background and character associated with a leading spa and wellness resort. Mel Zuckerman, owner of Canyon Ranch said in a 2006 press release, “Dr. Carmona has committed his life and career to saving and improving lives. His commitment to safety and preparedness, and his unwavering dedication to better health through prevention have changed the way that millions of people view health and well-being.”

As Vice Chairman, Dr. Carmona works with other Canyon Ranch executives, Medical Director Mark Liponis, M.D. (who I met during my stay at Canyon Ranch, Lenox) as well as the integrative medicine team on major projects like the Cleveland Clinic, which is recognized as one of the top medical research institutions in the United States. I believe Dr. Carmona will find enthusiastic support at Canyon Ranch for his commitment to scientific (instead of political) health care considerations.