(Nov. 10, 2023) – Last week, the Kansas Hospital Association Board of Directors met in person for the final time prior to the end of 2023. The KHA Board meeting kicked off with a presentation from Chris DeRienzo, MD, American Hospital Association's chief physician executive. Dr. DeRienzo highlighted the latest AHA initiatives, including its work to improve the health care workforce and the image of the nation's hospitals. AHA's dedication to promoting the positive stories of our industry is much appreciated.
The KHA Board also dedicated time to lean into the current financial status of Kansas hospitals. Through small group discussions, the KHA Board identified current challenges and potential strategies to support the KHA membership. This guidance will assist KHA staff as we continue to delve into this important issue, including exploring how the current environment in Kansas compares to other surrounding states.
Additional highlights of the November board meeting are bulleted below:
- Recognized Carrie Saia for her service as the KHA Board Chair for 2023. On behalf of the entire KHA membership and staff, we would like to thank Carrie for her leadership and service.
- Selected Tammy Peterman, The University of Kansas Health System, to serve as the at-large member on the KHA executive committee in 2024.
- Recognized those KHA Board members ending their service on the KHA Board. We would like to thank Sherri Vaughn, MD, Curt Colson, Lynn Fisher, MD, and Allen Van Driel for their leadership.
- Accepted the KHA associate membership application for AblePay.
- Shared highlights from the recent AHA Regional Policy Board meeting.
- Adopted the KHA finance and investment report, as well as the 2024 budget.
- Approved a KHA membership dues rebate for 2023. More information will be shared in the coming weeks.
- Recapped advocacy efforts on federal and state levels. KHA staff has been working on policy initiatives related to the upcoming 2024 Kansas legislative session, including several policies related to workforce and Medicaid. On the federal level, much attention has been given to Congress' end-of-year agenda concerning the federal budget. Additional federal issues include site-neutral payments, the 340B Drug Discount Program and rural emergency hospital requirements.
- Discussed KHA's public campaign to improve the perception of hospitals and health care in Kansas.
- Updated the KHA Board on the 2024 Health Care Virtual Career Day that will take place on Feb. 1, 2024.
Please let us know if you have questions or need assistance on matters affecting your hospital. KHA staff are available to assist you with your needs.
--Chad Austin