More than half of rural Kansas hospitals analyzed in a new report are considered at risk of closing, with a smaller group facing immediate closure. The Centers for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform report found that out of about 100 rural Kansas hospitals, 69 are at risk of closure and 28 are at immediate risk.
Kansas ranks highest among states included in the report for immediate closure risk, surpassing Texas, which has 26 rural hospitals at immediate risk, and Missouri, which has 11. The report also found 294 rural hospitals nationwide are immediately at risk of closing.
Cindy Samuelson, senior vice president of the Kansas Hospital Association, pointed to rising expenses driven by inflation—covering staffing, pharmaceuticals and supplies—alongside fixed reimbursement rates that limit hospitals’ ability to increase income. She also said low reimbursement from payers such as Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance is a major challenge.
The report notes potential impacts on rural communities, including reduced access to primary care, imaging and laboratory testing, and longer drives for patients when facilities close. It also warns that loss of healthcare can weaken rural economies and make it harder for rural industries and energy production to attract and retain workers.