Prairie View, Inc. in Newton was visited by Governor Laura Kelly as part of her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour. During her visit, Governor Kelly toured the Adult Outpatient Program, Crisis Services Department, and Behavioral Urgent Care Center. She also met with Prairie View Inc.’s leadership team to discuss the potential impact of Medicaid expansion on behavioral and mental health services.
Governor Kelly emphasized the importance of expanding Medicaid to increase access to healthcare for those in need of comprehensive mental health treatment. She urged the Kansas Legislature to vote in favor of debating and voting on Medicaid expansion when they reconvene on April 26. Expanding Medicaid would provide access to health care for an additional 150,000 Kansans, improve the health care workforce, and reduce costs for everyone.
Kansas ranks 48th in access to mental health care among all 50 states and Washington, D.C., according to a report by Mental Health America. The rankings are based on factors such as treatment accessibility and insurance costs. Prairie View, Inc. President and CEO Marcy Johnson expressed support for Medicaid expansion, highlighting its potential to save lives and provide critical services to more Kansans.
Local legislators representing Harvey County and surrounding areas were invited to attend the tour at Prairie View, Inc. Kansans are encouraged to contact their legislators to advocate for Medicaid expansion