By Dave Ranney
KHI News Service
TOPEKA, Feb. 12
The Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved on Tuesday will hold a press conference to call attention to issues facing the state”s 34 health care clinics for the poor and uninsured.
“We”d like to create an increased awareness of the role that primary care safety-net clinics play in serving underserved Kansas and in creating a healthier Kansan,” said KAMU Executive Director Karla Finnell.
The 10 a.m. press conference at the Statehouse will feature:
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Secretary Rod Bremby of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
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Sen. Dwayne Umbarger, R-Thayer, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
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Rep. Bob Bethell, R-Alden, chairman of the House Social Services Budget Committee.
Finnell will release a report on how safety-net clinics are supported in other states.
“We”d like to see Kansas come up with a plan, something that”s sustainable,” she said.
The press conference coincides with KAMU”s “Legislative Day.” Ten clinics are expected to have booths in the Rotunda.
Dave Ranney is a staff writer for KHI News Service, which specializes in coverage of health issues facing Kansans. He can be reached at
dranney@khi.org
or at 785-233-5443, ext. 128.