AI-assisted summary

Many rural Kansas hospitals are at risk of closure due to financial struggles and upcoming Medicaid reimbursement cuts.

Hospitals are critical to rural communities, providing essential health care, jobs, and economic stability.

Kansas has not expanded Medicaid, which forces hospitals to absorb costs for treating uninsured patients.

A temporary increase in the state's provider tax will bring more federal funds to some hospitals, offering a short-term financial lifeline.

Nearly every seat is taken during lunchtime at the Remnant Cafe in Parsons, Kansas, and Brian Williams is caught up in conversation about the happenings at the local hospital .

It’s not unusual for Williams, the CEO of Labette Health , to field questions about personal medical concerns or roa

See Full Page