nee epeeeee [}2¢/ 7 To the People of Rongelep f wish to thank you for your letter of October 1, 1976, bringing to my attention your views on the medical care of those of you who were exposed to the radiation from the falleut. I have carefully considered your views and appreciate the opportunity to answer your questions. First, I weuld like to comment with regard to travel of Marshallese patients to the United States. Since only very few Americans know your language, it is indeed necessary for Marshallese attendants to accompany patients that come to the U.S. for treatment. Unfortunately, on two occasions, this did not occur for various reasone. JT have been assured, however, that every effort will be made in the future to have all patients accompanied by English-speaking Marshallese attendants. Also, when traveling outside the Trust Territory adequate travel funds will be provided. In addition, I will urge the Trust Territory officials to arrange necessary papers, such as passports, well in advance, Whenever the Brookhaven doctors are at Rongelap, they pive anyone with sickness the best treatment available under the circumstances. As in the past, any exposed person with a disease that appears to be caused by radiation exposure will be taken to the U.S. for treatment if necessary. In the case that adequate facilities are avallable locally, patients who require hospitalization will be treated in the Trust Territory hospitals. Dr. Knudsen will assist in the treatment of the patients at these hospitais. Wedicines needed for treatment at Rongelap that are not available from the Trust Territory Department of Health Services will, if possible, be provided by ERDA doctors. Wan 535 ' T