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House Resolution Urges Patience
Topeka – The Kansas House of Representatives Committee on Health and Human Services introduced a resolution in committee today aimed at giving the Kansas Legislature an opportunity to protect Kansans’ investments in the University of Kansas Medical Center and School of Medicine (KUMC) and University of Kansas Hospital Authority (KUH).
“The Legislature is responsible for approximately $248 million in state funds to the medical center,” explained Chairwoman Brenda Landwehr. “Our resolution urges those involved with negotiations to partner the center with out of state research and medical facilities to wait on committing these Kansas assets until we have had the chance to review their proposal. We should have input and oversight of these Kansas investments.”
KUMC and KUH have been negotiating with St. Luke’s Hospital to establish an affiliation between the three. Chairwoman Landwehr learned today a letter of intent was signed.
“It troubles me they appear to be moving forward to commit state assets without consulting the Kansas Legislature – especially knowing we are considering a bill that would require legislative approval of any partnerships between a state university hospital and other entities,” said Landwehr.
The House Appropriations Committee introduced House Bill 2134 on January 19, 2007. The bill was assigned to the Health and Human Services Committee. Chairwoman Landwehr said she hopes to hold a hearing on HB 2134 next week.
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