ICYMI: Russell City Council Adopts Resolution
Supporting Medicaid Expansion in Kansas
KEY QUOTE: “It is estimated the expansion of Medicaid in Kansas would benefit the local healthcare sector in the following ways: $1,436,868 in annual healthcare spending throughout the county, $2,704,880 in new hospital revenue over the next decade, 56 new jobs created in the county and 167 Kansans would become eligible for health insurance, making it more likely they would get the mental and physical healthcare they need to join the workforce, care for their families and be productive citizens.”
Russell City Council Adopts Resolution Supporting Medicaid Expansion in Kansas
David Elliott, KRSL
January 3, 2024
- The Russell City Council met Tuesday and adopted a resolution supporting the expansion of Medicaid, known as KanCare, in Kansas.
- Healthcare is a significant part of the local economy said City staff. In October 2023, the Institute for Policy and Social Research at the University of Kansas released a study, The Importance of the Health Care Sector to the Russell County Economy. The study indicated that within Russell County, the healthcare sector employs more than 279 people directly and pays out $14.8 million in labor income based on 2021 data.
- In addition to providing direct employment and income, the healthcare sector creates multiplier effects as businesses and employees purchase local goods and services. With the multiplier effects, the Russell County healthcare sector supports 358 jobs and about $17 million in labor income.
- In addition to jobs and income, the healthcare sector provides economic development effects… A quality healthcare sector improves the population’s well-being, which, in turn, improves business productivity. Quality healthcare aids in recruiting and retaining businesses, workforce and retirees.
- According to City staff, Russell Regional Hospital, healthcare providers, pharmacies, durable medical equipment providers and other ancillary services are critical to the community.
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