Lifeline or monopoly? MU Health Care plan would allow expansion even if competition shrinks

By: Meg Cunningham

Outlets: Missouri Independent

Published: May 5, 2026

Words: 1,643

Last Updated: 2 months, 3 weeks ago

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In Hermann, Missouri, only 24 beds are available at the city’s critical access hospital.

The hospital has been forced to whittle away at services over the years in order to stay financially viable. Like many of Missouri’s rural hospitals, the situation is dire, Hermann Area District Hospital CEO Bill Hellebusch said.

To help keep the doors open, the hospital has an operating agreement with MU Health Care to staff and operate the building in Hermann. …

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