(February 2026) – Nearly 150 hospital leaders and advocates from across the state convened in Topeka in January for the Kansas Hospital Association's Advocacy Day. The event brought together hospital advocates and their elected officials to discuss the KHA membership's health care priorities.

The day began with 2026 KHA Board Chair Tammy Peterman, who welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of advocacy and engagement in the legislative process. Attendees heard from several elected officials, including Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi (R-Wichita), House Majority Leader Chris Croft (R-Overland Park) and Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes (D-Lenexa).

A panel of former elected officials enlightened attendees on how to engage elected officials and the best ways to communicate the issues most important to hospitals and the patients they serve. We wrapped up the education portion of Advocacy Day by hearing from former Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz, who discussed how industries can build advocacy and support. Each presenter shared their support and willingness to explore health care policies for Kansas hospitals during the 2026 legislative session.

The highlight of KHA's Advocacy Day is the opportunity for Kansas hospital leaders to meet with their state elected officials during lunch. Several of the advocacy topics emphasized by the KHA membership focused on ensuring financial viability, promoting health care workforce opportunities, protecting the integrity of the 340B program, and reducing the administrative burdens imposed by health insurance organizations.

The key to effective grassroots advocacy is personal interaction between elected officials and their constituents. We encourage hospital board members to join our grassroots advocacy team by meeting with your elected officials while they are in their home districts. Let us know how we can assist you in this effort.