Ascension Via Christi has announced it will be closing its emergency department in Fort Scott on December 20th.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a statement expressing sadness over the decision. She said, “Bourbon County residents have already had to drive 30 miles to Pittsburg – or, in some cases, 90 miles to Kansas City – for most care since Mercy Hospital closed five years ago. Now, even in emergencies, they’ll have one less place to turn, threatening their health and safety. “
The Kansas Department of Commerce Rapid Response Team is reaching out to Ascension Via Christi leadership and will be sharing resources with employees who are now looking for work.
Governor Kelly has been touring the state to call for Medicaid expansion, and that will be her top priority in the 2024 legislative session. She said that will provide support in rural communities to keep health care accessible and affordable.
