Vote for strong leaders who will protect the health of Kansans

Too often this year, and even more so after the presidential debates, I hear people saying, “I am not thrilled to vote for either candidate.” Even more troubling is the statement that usually follows: “I’m just not going to vote in this election.”

Every time I hear this, I feel compelled to remind my fellow Kansans that every vote matters — and Election Day is about much more than the Oval Office. As citizens of Kansas, we all need to participate in choosing leaders who will move our state in a healthier, more productive and economically sound direction. Together and as individuals, it is our right and responsibility to be at the polls Tuesday.

As a hospital executive, I know my colleagues and I are doing our part to inspire others to get out and vote in November. Together, hospital employees in Kansas are more than 84,000 people strong. Our hospital represents more than 3,200 employees, determined to build a healthy Kansas. We see the struggles of patients who lack health insurance coverage and have joined our colleagues all across the state to inspire hospital employees to vote. I hope you join us.

Based on the series of victories by challengers over incumbents in the August primaries, advocates for expanding KanCare believe there is greater opportunity to have a thoughtful discussion about this important issue and move legislation forward next year. New legislation is being crafted for 2017, but the 2016 bill had many aspects of the most conservative plan implemented in the nation. That bill was signed into law in Indiana by Republican governor and vice presidential nominee Mike Pence. Expansion advocates support a unique, Kansas-based solution that is cost effective for the state.

By voting Tuesday, you can help elect state leaders who want to make health care accessible for all Kansans. Strong leaders — leaders who understand the importance of investing in Kansas communities and hospitals — are important to passing legislation that strengthens our economy while protecting access to health care for all.

Expanding KanCare would make health care coverage affordable for 150,000 hardworking Kansans who cannot afford coverage today. It would protect our local communities and hospitals by reducing the financial burden of uncompensated care, and it would bring a net financial gain to our state that would result in more jobs and increased spending for economic gains.

The economic stimulus lost to Kansas is $1.9 million every day we wait. To date, Kansas has already lost $1.4 billion by delaying KanCare expansion and avoiding thoughtful development of an expansion plan that could benefit Kansas. The bottom line: A well-crafted expansion plan can improve our state economy and build a bridge to a healthier, more productive Kansas.

This story was originally published November 6, 2016 at 2:00 PM with the headline "Vote for strong leaders who will protect the health of Kansans."