FORT SCOTT — Ascension Via Christi in Fort Scott will close its emergency room effective Dec. 20.
Ascension Via Christi said the ER is being closed because of a steady decline in emergency room visits and economic challenges, according to a report from KOAM News.
Community residents told the TV station they are worried about the implications for those in need of urgent medical care. The next closest in-state emergency room is in Pittsburg, 34 miles away. The Nevada Missouri Regional Medical Center is about 20 miles away.
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, who recently completed a six-week state tour advocating for Medicaid expansion, voiced her criticism of the Fort Scott emergency room’s closure. In her statement, she expressed concern about the potential consequences of the decision.
“Now, even in emergencies, they’ll have one less place to turn, threatening their health and safety,” Kelly said.
