There comes a time in everyone’s life or everyone’s business that change will and must occur.

That time could be now for the Butler Health System.

Don’t be in a hurry to scream that the sky is falling. That may well be just a sprinkle of sadness from those who are shedding a tear at the possibility that BHS could possibly no longer be as independent as it has been.

It surely comes as a shock to many, but to those closest to the situation, including the Board of Trustees that will make the final decision, it will be a decision made with great caution and with the long-term best interest of the community first and foremost in their minds.

Right now, there are more questions than answers. The announcement from president and CEO Ken DeFurio stressed the position that this is not a sale or a takeover by one company or the other.

This “letter of intent” gives both parties a bit of protection as they go through the process of evaluating whether the actions will be good for the organizations and the communities to be served.

We are certain some people will be opposed to this before the ink is dry on the paper it is printed on.

Some are just dead set against change and can’t imagine a world where the local hospital isn’t completely free and clear of outside influence.

There is no such thing in this world as “no outside influence.” The world keeps getting smaller and smaller.

It is up to the leaders of such organizations to stay ahead of changes and to be wary of what failing to change could mean.

Please be supportive of BHS as they move forward in this process. They have a good track record of transparency in dealing with Butler County.

Maybe this merger will all happen and maybe it won’t. But there is a time for every season. Maybe the time is now for the Butler Health System.

— RV