KU-LMH ties

Lawrence Memorial Hospital and its patients both could benefit from a closer relationship with University of Kansas Hospital

After failing to reach agreement with St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo., Lawrence Memorial Hospital officials have decided to look around for another partner to help LMH expand its heart treatment program.

St. Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute has developed a fine reputation for cardiac care, and LMH President and CEO Gene Meyer held a senior position at St. Luke’s before taking his current job. Under his leadership, LMH has undergone major changes, all for the better, and the morale of hospital staffers is far better than it was before his arrival.

Some weeks ago, Meyer and members of the hospital staff held a number of meetings concerning the possibility of seeking a relationship with a nearby hospital that provides excellent cardiovascular services. The two hospitals in consideration were St. Luke’s and University of Kansas Hospital, the KU Medical Center hospital. University of Kansas Hospital a separate entity but works closely with the medical center.

There are differences in the proposals, services, privileges, working relationship and other facets of the discussions, but the vote between St. Luke’s and University of Kansas Hospital was extremely close. In fact, several votes were taken before the final decision was made to seek an arrangement with St. Luke’s.

Now that the possible St. Luke’s tie has fallen through, it would seem a close relationship with University of Kansas Hospital would be in the best interests of all parties. In fact, it is difficult to understand why LMH officials haven’t made a greater effort to develop closer ties with University of Kansas Hospital and the KU Medical Center, particularly since so many local residents have ties to the university.

Irene Cumming has done an excellent job as president and CEO of University of Kansas Hospital. Likewise, Meyer has done a top-flight job at LMH. It would seem both hospitals, as well as patients needing prompt, excellent care, would benefit from a closer relationship between the two health care facilities.

Hopefully, there will be an announcement relatively soon that the two hospitals have established a working relationship. Such an agreement would add to the overall excellence in service provided by Lawrence Memorial Hospital.