There will be negotiations on a possible contract that would allow Topeka-based Stormont Vail Health to provide hospital and clinic services in Junction City and Geary County. Stormont Vail agreed through a non-binding letter of intent to negotiate and potentially enter into a contract.
Margaret Grismer, Geary Community Hospital Interim CEO, saw the positive in this move. "I feel this is the absolute right direction for the hospital to go for financial and quality stability moving us forward into the future."
Various regional healthcare entities were approached, explained Grismer. "The process took us through various LOI's ( letters of intent ) and Stormont Vail came back with an offer that keeps us looking most like a hospital, a vibrant hospital going forward in the future."
Trish Giordano, Geary County Commissioner, said she thought Stormont Vail is a "powerhouse for healthcare in the region. I think that we are fortunate that they see value in our community. "
Stormont Vail Health submitted the non-binding letter of intent that was approved by the Geary Community Hospital Trustees and the Geary County Commission.