President's Perspective – Hospital Leaders Convene at AHA Rural Forum

Earlier this week, I joined health care leaders from across the country to discuss the current rural health care environment and the innovative solutions that are being explored by communities to ensure access to quality health care.

Register Now: 2026 Infection Prevention Conference – March 12-13

This two-day conference will help prepare health care professionals to be facilitators and resources for surveillance, prevention and control of infections.

Education and Networking Reception for Administrative Professionals – March 4

This educational session will feature hospital CEO/executive assistant pairs sharing how they work together to manage time, communication, decision-making and competing priorities.

KHA's Annual Workforce Surveys Submission Deadlines Are Quickly Approaching

The 2026 KHA Annual Vacancy and Turnover Questionnaire should be submitted on the new HIDI Advantage workforce portal and is due Feb. 27. The 2026 Kansas Regional Healthcare Compensation and Benefits Survey also is in the field, with submissions due by Feb. 27.

Nurse Aide Regulations: Naming Guidance and Education

KHA has developed Nurse Aide Regulations: Naming Guidance and Education to clarify the naming of personnel who are nurse aides or nursing assistants in our hospitals and to address statutory discussions and possible changes regarding the education of certified nurse aides.

KDHE Releases Immunization Requirements for 2026 – 2027 School Year

The Kansas Immunization Requirements and Recommendations for the 2026-2027 School Year are based on the AAP and AAFP recommendations, including the current recommended and minimum interval immunization schedules and the catch-up schedule for children who fall behind.

CMS Proposes Changes to Health Insurance Marketplace

CMS issued a Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters proposed rule that will set the standards for the health insurance marketplace in 2027.

Beware the Shopkeep's Potions! Tidings of Retail Kratom and 7-OH – Feb. 26 Webinar

This webinar will describe Kratom, 7-OH and their differences, explain the risks and toxicity, identify use and withdrawal syndrome and strategies for assessing patients' potential use and treatment of Kratom use disorder.

TJC, NQF Align Sentinel Events and Serious Reportable Events Lists – March 3 Webinar

To streamline safety event reporting and reduce confusion and burden, The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum announced they are aligning TJC's Sentinel Event List with the NQF's Serious Reportable Events List.

Save the Date for HFMA and KAHPAM Spring Conference 2026 – April 16-17

This conference will bring together professionals from across Kansas for timely education, meaningful dialogue and powerful networking, all focused on today's most pressing challenges and tomorrow's opportunities.

Federal and National News

MLN Connects Provider eNews from the Medicare Learning Network, President Announces Launch of TrumpRx to Lower Drug Prices, 2026 Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Application Cycle Is Open, Before You Go.