New data show that state hospitals in Kansas face persistent staffing shortages, with at least one facility posting a recent 40 percent staff vacancy rate.

Data provided by the Kansas Department on Aging and Disability Services, the agency that oversees the facilities, demonstrate continued staffing shortfalls at the state hospitals.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that Osawatomie State Hospital has a nearly 40 percent staff vacancy rate, and Larned State Hospital has a nearly 35 percent vacancy rate.

KDADS says while there are vacancies, patients are receiving appropriate care.

KDADS spokeswoman Cara Sloan-Ramos also says Larned and Osawatomie are both small communities and that recruiting and retention of staff is always a priority.