Bishop Gilmore reacts to news of Larned hospital

March 1, 2010

After months of discussion among representatives of Pawnee County, the Pawnee County Community Health Organization, Central Kansas Medical Center, and Catholic Health Initiatives, a way has been found to transfer the Larned hospital and its Critical Access Hospital certification to HaysMed Partners-Pawnee County, Inc. on 1 March 2010.  Crucial health services will thus continue in Larned and Pawnee County.

This was precisely what I requested following the 10 June 2009 announcement of the pending closure of St. Joseph Hospital.  I urged and supported this move and this transfer throughout the passing months.  And I am grateful to all who have finally made it a reality.  
I ask God’s blessing on this new step for health care in Pawnee County.

+ Ronald M. Gilmore
Bishop of Dodge City
1 March 2010