Hays Post
High Plains Mental Health Center and its former clinical director, David Anderson, have reached a mutually agreed upon resolution after Anderson sued the center alleging discrimination based on disability and age.
Both parties are pleased to bring this issue to a close and move forward, High Plains said in a news release issued on Thursday.
The exact nature of the agreement was not disclosed.
Anderson sued his former employer, alleging he was wrongfully discharged based on a mental illness.
Anderson, 62, asked for legal relief under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), under Title 1 of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), and under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
The complaint said Anderson was allegedly wrongfully discharged on Nov. 3, 2023, because of his disability—depression.
Anderson served High Plains for decades, joining the organization in 1987 and later serving as clinical director beginning in 2003.
"High Plains appreciates his years of service and the contributions he made to the organization and the communities it serves," the news release said.
"During that time, his work supported the delivery of care to thousands of individuals and families across northwest and north central Kansas, helping expand access to services and improve outcomes for those facing mental health challenges," the news release said.
"High Plains remains focused on strengthening access to care, improving client outcomes, and continuing to build on the progress made across the organization," the release said.
"This includes continued investment in its people, programs and the communities it serves. Today, our focus is clear. We are committed to strengthening access to care, improving client outcomes and continuing to build on the momentum we have established across our organization," the release said.
"This includes ongoing investment in our people, our programs, and the communities that rely on us every day," the release said. The organization is committed to fostering a workplace where both employees and patients feel supported and valued, and to providing compassionate, accountable care to every individual it serves.
"As High Plains moves forward, it remains dedicated to delivering high-quality care with a clear focus on outcomes and continuous improvement."