Editorial: Patient ombudsman creates controversy

The 1999 Legislature created a Cabinet-level ombudsman to help patients in disputes with their health plans. But Gov. Kenny Guinn's selection last week of nurse Laurie England as health care ombudsman prompted protests by Assemblywoman Barbara Buckley, D-Las Vegas, who pushed for the legislation.

England has an excellent background, so that isn't the issue. Yet it is easy to understand why Buckley would be concerned about the choice, since England opposed the ombudsman bill during a hearing. It should be noted, though, that at the time England was a state employee advocating on behalf of the Guinn administration, which initially opposed the bill. But it is hoped in her new job England will be an aggressive advocate for patients, a critical position for those denied their benefits.

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