In a significant move to enhance healthcare services in Emporia and Lyon County, LMH Health and The University of Kansas Health System have entered into a strategic affiliation with Newman Regional Health (NRH).
This partnership, effective February 1, 2025, aims to strengthen healthcare delivery and ensure that medical decisions remain community-focused.
Objective of the Affiliation
The primary goal of this collaboration is to increase healthcare access and improve care coordination for patients in the Emporia region.
By leveraging the strengths of each institution, the affiliation seeks to provide comprehensive healthcare services while maintaining the independence of NRH.
Key Principles of the Agreement
- Independence: NRH will maintain its independent ownership and governance, ensuring that healthcare decisions are made locally.
- Collaboration: The partnership will explore opportunities to expand services and enhance patient care through shared resources and expertise.
- Community Focus: Emphasis will be placed on delivering care close to home, benefiting patients, physicians, and the broader community.
Statements from Leadership
Cathy Pimple, CEO of Newman Regional Health, emphasized the importance of local decision-making, stating, “This affiliation allows us to stay true to our mission while enhancing the quality of care for our community.”
Russ Johnson, President and CEO of LMH Health, highlighted the benefits of the partnership: “Our collaboration with NRH and The University of Kansas Health System will streamline care delivery and support the independence of community hospitals.”
Bob Page, President and CEO of The University of Kansas Health System, added, “We look forward to supporting care needs from routine to the most complex, ensuring local care for residents.”
Background and Context
Prior to this agreement, NRH had been in discussions with Stormont Vail Health for over a year. Ultimately, NRH determined that an affiliation with LMH Health and The University of Kansas Health System best aligned with their future goals and community needs.
Existing Collaborations
NRH has an ongoing partnership with LMH Health through OrthoKansas, offering orthopedic specialty care in Emporia. Additionally, NRH collaborates with The University of Kansas Health System via its Care Collaborative, focusing on enhancing patient quality and experience.
Geographical Proximity
The drive from Newman Regional Health to LMH Health’s West Campus in Lawrence is approximately 80 miles, or about an hour and 15 minutes, facilitating convenient collaboration between the institutions.
Institutional Profiles
| Institution | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Newman Regional Health (NRH) | A not-for-profit hospital serving Emporia and Lyon County, committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services to its community. |
| LMH Health | A non-profit, 174-bed hospital in Lawrence, Kansas, offering a range of primary and specialty care services, supported by 1,800 staff and 380 providers. en.wikipedia.org |
| The University of Kansas Health System | A comprehensive health system with a flagship hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, and over 150 hospital and clinic locations in the KC metro area, home to the region’s only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. |
The strategic affiliation between LMH Health, The University of Kansas Health System, and Newman Regional Health represents a commitment to enhancing healthcare services in Emporia and surrounding areas.
By focusing on collaboration and community-centered care, this partnership aims to provide patients with improved access to high-quality medical services while preserving the autonomy of local healthcare institutions.
