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A major healthcare milestone has been reached in western Kansas as Citizens Health in Colby has officially completed construction of its new hospital building.
The modern facility marks a significant step forward in improving rural healthcare access for the region.
Hospital leaders confirmed that several departments have already started transitioning from the old hospital, which is located next door, into the new building. The full relocation process is expected to take approximately three weeks.
Expanded Medical Services for the Community
The newly constructed hospital is designed to increase space and efficiency, allowing Citizens Health to grow several critical medical services.
According to hospital officials who spoke with KSN News, the facility will support expansion in:
- Family practice care
- Specialty medical services
- Maternal health services
- Surgical care
These improvements aim to ensure patients can receive comprehensive care close to home, reducing the need to travel long distances for treatment.
Keeping Healthcare Local in Western Kansas
Jenny Niblock, Chief Strategy Officer at Citizens Health, emphasized the importance of providing quality care locally.
She explained that traveling to larger cities for medical treatment often pulls patients away from their communities and families. By expanding services in Colby, Citizens Health hopes to minimize that burden and keep care within the local community.
“We want people to get care at home, not spend hours traveling away from their families and support systems,” Niblock said.
A Transformational Investment in Rural Healthcare
David McCorkle, CEO of Citizens Health, said the new facility will significantly improve how the hospital operates.
He noted that the upgraded layout and infrastructure will allow the organization to work more efficiently and deliver higher-quality healthcare well into the future.
The hospital construction project took two years to complete and reflects broader efforts across the state, including Kansas receiving $222 million for rural health initiatives, to strengthen medical services in underserved areas.
The opening of the new Citizens Health hospital in Colby represents a major investment in western Kansas healthcare.
With expanded space, improved efficiency, and plans to grow family, specialty, maternal, and surgical services, the facility is positioned to deliver better care while keeping patients close to home.
Hospital leaders believe the new building will have a lasting impact on the community by improving access, reducing travel burdens, and strengthening rural health services for years to come.
FAQs
Where is the new Citizens Health hospital located?
The new hospital is located in Colby, Kansas, directly next to the former hospital building.
How long will the move into the new hospital take?
Hospital officials say the full transition of services will take about three weeks.
What services will expand in the new facility?
The hospital plans to expand family practice, specialty care, maternal health, and surgical services.