Hagedorn Psychiatric Hospital. Photo care of Star-Ledger.

New Jersey social worker Susan Hollander Whitman was stripped of her duties after a letter she wrote opposing the planned closing of the Hagedorn Psychiatric Hospital was read at a state Senate budget hearing.

Whitman worked as a guardian for 19 elderly and incapacitated patients at the hospital in Lebanon Township. She wrote about the effect the closure would have on her charges.

“I cannot in good conscience advocate for them to be moved around and have their stability disrupted,” she said.

The Department of Health and Senior Services is investigating whether Whitman misrepresented her role in that office.

To read a NorthJersey.com article on the issue click here. And check out this Star-Ledger editorial that supports  Whitman’s action. NASW New Jersey Chapter Executive Director Walter Kalman, MSW, LSW, said the editorial reflects the chapter’s position on the issue.