Kearney Regional Medical Center’s Journey of Innovation, Expansion, and Nonprofit Partnership with Bryan Health

Kearney Regional Medical Center (KRMC) is a full-service acute care hospital employing nearly 900 people and contributing an estimated annual economic impact of over $260 million to Buffalo County. Leading the charge in healthcare excellence in Kearney, NE, and governed by the region’s first physician-led Board of Managers, KRMC is the region’s pioneer in adapting to the dynamic healthcare landscape. Its leadership model enables the organization to quickly adjust to the ever-changing healthcare environment and the needs of its growing community.

Since its establishment in 2014, a full-service acute care hospital has evolved into a state-of-the-art facility offering specialized services. The hospital provides patients with a 93-bed surgical and outpatient center, a 24-hour emergency room, an ICU, a Maternity Care Center, and a Level II NICU.

KRMC’s team of talented physicians is deeply rooted in the Kearny community, with many having served the area for generations. For patients, KRMC is their one-stop shop for all medical needs. With specialists in general and interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, and more, people who visit KRMC are in good hands. The medical providers employ cutting-edge technology to provide personalized care, treating patients like family.

Buffalo County’s Ideal Location Amplifies Kearney Regional Medical Center’s Reach

Buffalo County has a large and thriving medical industry that serves residents in the Greater Nebraska and Northern Kansas region, supporting the Kearney Regional Medical Center.

“For Kearney Regional, the emphasis is on the “regional” part of our name, as it quickly became apparent that the need for additional healthcare options is not limited to Buffalo County,” said KRMC Interim CEO Danny Van Ranken. “KRMC serves more than 200,000 people in central and southwest Nebraska and northern Kansas.”

With multiple higher education systems like the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the University of Nebraska Medical Center – Kearney, and Central Community College, Kearney is fortunate to have several degree programs for careers in the medical industry. This talent pipeline helps with the ever-growing need for staff for various hospitals, clinics, and nursing care facilities.

Ambitious Expansion and Cancer Care Collaboration

The medical needs of the Kearney community are growing, and the KRMC is setting ambitious goals for provider and clinic expansion, aiming to double the existing clinic footprint. Interim CEO Danny Van Ranken emphasizes the commitment to adding specialties and growing service lines to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community.

The hospital’s partnership with Cancer Partners of Nebraska marks a significant milestone, culminating in a groundbreaking 25,000-square-foot cancer center. This new facility between KRMC and Yanney Heritage Park promises comprehensive outpatient cancer services with cutting-edge technology like a state-of-the-art linear accelerator and on-site diagnostic imaging.

Empowering the Future: Kearney Regional Medical Center’s Transition and Renewed Purpose

In a strategic move to sustain momentum and enhance services, KRMC embarked on a transformative journey in 2022. The hospital approached nonprofit Bryan Health, unlocking new resources and returning ownership to a Nebraska entity.

Van Ranken explains how this partnership enables KRMC to offer more provider services in rural areas, improve financial standing, and expand local clinic footprints. Staying true to its “local choice, local voice” mission, Bryan Health’s openness to local governance and physician involvement solidified the partnership, marking an exciting new chapter for Kearney Regional Medical Center.

A Thriving Future Awaits: Kearney Regional Medical Center and Bryan Health’s Shared Vision

A dynamic future unfolds as Kearney Regional Medical Center transitions into a nonprofit under the Bryan Health umbrella. The partnership secures the hospital’s financial position and paves the way for expanded services, community-driven decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to high-quality healthcare.

With innovation, growth, and collaboration at its core, Kearney Regional Medical Center, in tandem with Bryan Health, stands poised to continue as a cornerstone in the regional healthcare landscape, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for the Kearney community and beyond.

Development Council for Buffalo County

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