The story (Nov. 25, Daily Bee) about Commissioner Steve Bradshaw wanting to defund the Panhandle Health District over their mask mandate just stunned me. As a health care professional for nearly 40 years, I can attest to the fact that a paper surgical mask does nothing to impede your breathing. I have worn a surgical mask almost every working day of my career. (since universal precautions were introduced in the 1980s in response to the AIDS epidemic.)

If Commissioner Bradshaw is experiencing breathing difficulties, that could be an indicator that he has underlying health issues which means that (guess what) he should probably wear a mask when around others.

To even suggest defunding the Panhandle Health District when they provide so many services to our community is unconscionable, especially by one of our county commissioners. If you disagree with one of their policies, then stand up and make a coherent argument against that policy. Do not put their entire patient pool at greater risk to show off your power.

And if Mr. Bradshaw doesn't want to wear a mask, then don't. As per our sheriff, he is safe from prosecution.

DR. ROB HARRISON

Sandpoint