Governor Laura Kelly advocates for Medicaid expansion to improve mental health care in Kansas

Governor Laura Kelly recently visited Prairie View, Inc. in Newton as part of her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour. During her visit, she 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 comprehensive mental health treatment for those in need. 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.

According to a report by Mental Health America, Kansas ranks 48th in access to mental health care among all 50 states and Washington, D.C. 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. Photos from the event are available for media use