January 7, 2022

Media Statement Issued by Kansas Hospital Association (KHA):

KHA Statement – Disaster Declaration and Executive Orders Provide Flexibility to Hospitals and Health Care Providers


(Jan. 06, 2022) – Kansas hospitals have continued to work with Governor Laura Kelly and legislative leadership to keep them well informed of the growing concerns of the current health care crisis. Kansas hospitals have an increased amount of patients, coupled with staffing shortages. Today’s disaster declaration and executive orders are welcome news. These actions provide hospitals with temporary regulatory flexibilities so they can best care for the communities they serve.
Hospitals are seeing a large volume of all kinds of patients, including those with emergent and chronic health care needs, in some cases, patients are more critical as they have delayed care. Delta is still circulating in Kansas communities, resulting in many critically ill people. Omicron is increasing, and hospitals are treating many seasonal respiratory diseases, including flu. The large volume of patients, combined with record staffing shortages, are affecting access to health care for everyone.
Kansas hospitals strongly encourage Kansans to take steps to protect their health. By staying healthy, Kansans can relieve the stress on the health care system. One way to accomplish this is to follow CDC and KDHE guidance, talk to your physician about how best to stay healthy, get vaccinated, wear a mask, wash your hands often and keep a safe distance. Learn more at www.StoptheSpreadKS.org.
The Kansas Hospital Association is a voluntary, non-profit organization existing to be the leading advocate and resource for members. KHA membership includes 249 member facilities, of which 123 are full-service, community hospitals. Founded in 1910, KHA’s vision is: “Optimal Health for Kansans.”

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