by Derek White
Healthcare in Colby, Kansas, is undergoing a transformation with the development of a new hospital facility that is designed to meet both present and future community needs. In a recent interview, David McCorkle shared insights into the hospital expansion, its unique design, and the impact it will have on the community.
One of the most notable aspects of the new hospital's design is its unconventional layout. The structure’s shape may seem unusual at first glance, but it was intentionally designed to allow for future expansion. Rather than constructing additional wings as healthcare needs evolve, the current layout ensures that every patient care area can be expanded as necessary. This forward-thinking approach allows flexibility in responding to the ever-changing landscape of medical care.
A key component of the new facility is the expansion of specialty services. The hospital has already been bringing in specialists from various locations, including Denver and even Columbus, Ohio, to ensure that patients in rural Kansas have access to specialized medical care. These providers travel to Colby to see patients on a scheduled basis, helping reduce the need for long-distance travel for care.
One example of this expansion is the partnership with Salina Orthopedics, which has significantly increased the number of orthopedic surgeries performed locally. Last year alone, over 200 orthopedic procedures were conducted at the hospital. This means fewer residents have to make lengthy trips for consultations and surgeries, improving healthcare accessibility and convenience.
Among the most exciting additions to the new hospital is the expansion of oncology services. The facility will offer a dedicated space for chemotherapy treatments, improving the patient experience, and providing essential care closer to home. Oncology can be one of the most challenging fields in healthcare and ensuring that patients do not have to travel long distances during a difficult time is a top priority.
While the new facility will maintain its designation as a critical access hospital with a 25-bed limit, there will be an increase in overall space and efficiency. Patient rooms will nearly double in size, allowing for a more comfortable stay and better accommodations for family members. Additionally, the number of operating rooms will increase from two to four, ensuring that surgical services can meet growing demand.
The hospital’s layout has been carefully planned to enhance efficiency for staff while improving patient care. Departments are strategically placed to reduce unnecessary movement across the facility, making care delivery more seamless. For example, labor and delivery units are now located closer to operating rooms, making emergency procedures such as C-sections quicker and more efficient.
The entire project comes with a significant price tag—approximately $130 million in total. However, this investment is seen as necessary to ensure that the community receives high-quality care for years to come. The project remains on track, with approximately 60% of construction completed and an anticipated opening in April or May of next year.
Beyond healthcare, the hospital expansion is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. While the facility is only expected to add 30 to 40 new jobs, the long-term impact of having a modern, well-equipped medical center in Colby is likely to attract more professionals and residents to the area. The project reflects the forward-thinking mindset of the community, ensuring that Colby remains a hub for healthcare in northwest Kansas.
The new hospital in Colby is more than just a construction project—it is a commitment to the future of rural healthcare. With a focus on expansion, efficiency, and accessibility, this facility will provide better care for residents while setting a foundation for continued growth. As the project nears completion, it represents not only an advancement in medical services but also a testament to the community’s dedication to progress and well-being.
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