By Trish Svoboda
On Tuesday, the Russell City Council met and adopted a resolution supporting the expansion of Medicaid, known as KanCare, in Kansas.
A study from October 2023 by the Institute for Policy and Social Research at the University of Kansas, titled “The Importance of the Health Care Sector to the Russell County Economy,” revealed that the healthcare sector in Russell County directly employs over 279 individuals and contributes $14.8 million in labor income, based on 2021 data.
Beyond direct employment and income, the healthcare sector generates multiplier effects as businesses and employees make local purchases of goods and services. Factoring in these multiplier effects, the Russell County healthcare sector supports 358 jobs and approximately $17 million in labor income.
The healthcare sector also brings about economic development effects. A high-quality healthcare sector enhances the well-being of the population, subsequently boosting business productivity. Quality healthcare aids in the attraction and retention of businesses, workforce, and retirees.
According to City staff, Russell Regional Hospital, healthcare providers, pharmacies, durable medical equipment providers, and other supportive services play a crucial role in the community.
