CHANUTE — Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center (NMRMC) and the Foundation of NMRMC announced Wednesday an award of nearly $1.9 million in Congressional Community Project Funding.
The money will be used toward expanding rehabilitation services and modernizing diagnostic imaging capabilities for southeast Kansas residents.
Congressman Derek Schmidt secured $688,000 in federal funding for essential medical imaging equipment, including a TIMS 2000 SP Mobile Cart Package, Emergency Department Digital X-Ray System, two LOGIQ E10 Ultrasound Units, and a Portable C-Arm imaging system.
Senator Jerry Moran secured an additional $1.22 million to support construction of a shelled space that will be developed into a new Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center on the hospital’s campus.
“These federal investments represent a tremendous commitment to the health and well-being of the patients and communities we serve,” said Wendy Brazil, Chief Executive Officer of Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. “Healthcare technology continues to evolve rapidly, and these investments will allow us to enhance our diagnostic capabilities, improve workflow efficiencies, and expand access to specialized rehabilitation services.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, while chronic obstructive pulmonary disease continues to be among the nation’s leading causes of death.
“The demand for cardiopulmonary rehabilitation services continues to grow throughout Southeast Kansas,” said Amanda Hamilton, Director of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation. “This expansion will allow us to serve more patients, provide additional resources for recovery, and continue delivering the exceptional outcomes our program is known for. Access to rehabilitation services can improve quality of life, reduce hospitalizations, and help patients return to the activities they enjoy most.”
In addition to expanding rehabilitation services, the funding will modernize critical imaging technology used throughout the hospital. New equipment will enhance emergency care, surgical imaging, women’s health services, and diagnostic capabilities across multiple departments.
“This funding reflects what can happen when community leaders, healthcare advocates, and elected officials work toward a shared goal of improving healthcare access,” said Kelli Olson, Imaging Services Director. “These projects will have a lasting impact on healthcare in Southeast Kansas and help ensure patients have access to advanced services without leaving the communities they call home.”
“The Foundation is proud to support projects that create lasting benefits for our patients and communities,” said Anna Methvin, Director of the Foundation of Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. “We are grateful to Congressman Schmidt and Senator Moran for recognizing the importance of investing in rural healthcare and helping make these projects possible.”
Construction planning and equipment acquisition efforts will begin following final federal appropriations and project implementation processes.
