Kansas News
News stories from the past 60 days.
Nov 15, 2024 - Reports on a rural mental health summit in Plainville, Kansas, which included discussion of the role of rural faith leaders in connecting residents with mental health resources. Notes that, in areas where mental health professionals are scarce, residents may be more likely to seek help from local faith communities. Describes efforts to distribute mental health resource brochures to churches and provide mental health training opportunities to a range of rural community members.
Source: Kansas Reflector
Nov 14, 2024 - Highlights an initiative to increase vaccination for influenza among Kansas farmworkers. Discusses the increased risk of co-infection with H5N1 bird flu and seasonal influenza as well as the strain seasonal illnesses can place on low-staffed rural hospitals.
Source: KCUR, NPR
Oct 24, 2024 - Highlights challenges faced by a rural Kansas community in their efforts to address nitrate contamination in drinking water. Notes that agricultural practices and sandy soil have led to dangerous increases in nitrate levels over recent decades. Describes efforts to obtain funding for a new water treatment center and to increase testing of private wells.
Source: KCUR
Oct 17, 2024 - Announces newly awarded funding for connecting rural and remote communities with high-speed internet in 10 states.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Oct 15, 2024 - Details initiatives of the Wichita State University Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory (MDL) offering microbiology services and technical consulting to rural hospitals and small laboratories. Notes that small hospitals often face long turnaround times for sample testing. Discusses efforts to expedite diagnostic services while increasing the capacity of local laboratories.
Source: Wichita State University News
Sep 26, 2024 - Describes efforts by the Kansas Department of Education to source local food for school meals in rural western Kansas. Discusses how the predominance of commodity crops has led to a lack of options for purchasing local fruits and vegetables. Highlights barriers faced by specialty crop growers and notes the health and economic benefits of more diversified local food systems.
Source: High Plains Public Radio
Sep 23, 2024 - New rural hospitals are being built in Wyoming and Kansas despite the national trend of rural hospital closures. Discusses federal funding sources and the impact of limited access to hospital services for rural residents.
Source: USA Today, KFF Health News
Last Updated: 11/18/2024