Doctor deserves more

Re Andy Davis’ story, “ARcare doctor on top in pay”: I feel the story was somewhat short-sighted in that Dr. Steven Collier actually runs about two dozen clinics.

Without ARcare, I believe the city of Augusta would be in dire straits, not only because of its many employees, but because of its other contributions as well. ARcare has established a wellness center that has a workout room, plus facilities for area functions, such as the annual Chamber meeting. The new ARcare Center for Education & Wellness is for children 6 weeks to 4 years old, and has full day-care and education programs. Schoolaged children are cared for year ’round so their parents are able to work. A pediatric center is also located there. All of this is in addition to a clinic that treats the entire community.

I think Dr. Collier’s salary needs to be increased based on his contributions to our community and others. Reps. Mark McElroy and Kim Hammer obviously did not have the above facts when commenting on his income.

Thank you, Dr. Collier, for being there for Augusta, McCrory and the state of Arkansas.

JERRY A. KING

Augusta