Health Ministries in the Diocese of West Missouri

The size and variety of our health ministries make our Diocese relatively unusual among dioceses in the Episcopal Church.  These ministries include a large tertiary care hospital, which is the flagship for a regional health care system, and two long-term care facilities.  The hospital and one of the long-term care facilities are located in the northern part of the Diocese; the other long-term care facility is located in the southern part of the Diocese.

There are opportunities for the strengthening of relationships between the Diocese of West Missouri, its parishes, and these organizations.  These organizations have a very visible presence in the places where they are located and can contribute to a valued, clear identity for the Episcopal Church in West Missouri.

The Diocese can also serve as a coordinating body for the various health care ministries, enabling them to share information and to build relationships.  These health care ministries can also be a resource for programs in local parishes, such as parish nurse programs.  In turn, our parishes can be rich sources of volunteer and community support for the health care ministries of our Diocese.

The next Bishop of the Diocese of West Missouri will provide important leadership as the Diocese relates to these health ministries.  An understanding of and a willingness to learn more about the complexities of health care organizations, excellent relationship-building skills, and proven facilitation skills will be needed.

Saint Luke’s Hospital

Saint Luke's Hospital, located near the Country Club Plaza in the heart of Kansas City, has over 600 tertiary care beds and a medical staff of over 450 physicians in almost 60 medical specialties.  The Bishop of West Missouri serves as the Board Chair for Saint Luke’s Hospital.

The Hospital offers a variety of educational programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program, several medical residency and fellowship programs, a clinical pastoral education program, and a number of allied health programs.  The Hospital is the primary teaching hospital for the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine.

The Hospital is a nationally-recognized leader both in clinical care and in the environment it provides for the provision of care.  In 2003, it was awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award by the federal government.  It has also received the prestigious Magnet Designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Centers.

Saint Luke’s Hospital is the flagship hospital for the Saint Luke’s Health System, which consists of eleven area hospitals and several primary and specialty physician practices and provides a range of inpatient, outpatient, and home care services.  Bishop Howe currently serves as a member of the System Board.

Bishop Spencer Place

Bishop Spencer Place is a continuing care retirement community, located near the County Club Plaza and Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City.  It offers a range of living options for senior citizens, including skilled nursing care, assisted living care, and independent living.  The Bishop of West Missouri serves as the Board Chair for Bishop Spencer Place.

St. Luke’s Nursing Center

St. Luke’s Nursing Center is located in Carthage.  It is a 186-bed long term care facility which provides skilled care and assisted living care. This facility has a close relationship with Grace Church.