HaysMed
HaysMed and Gove County Medical Center (GCMC) are pleased to announce the launch of their strategic partnership formally began April 1, marking the next major milestone in the organizations’ shared commitment to strengthening rural healthcare in Gove County and the surrounding region.
This step follows the partnership agreement approved in late 2025 and builds on the longstanding relationship between the two hospitals. Under this affiliation, HaysMed will provide resource and operational support, while Gove County Medical Center continues to maintain its name, identity, leadership and locally elected board.
“We’re excited to partner with HaysMed so we can continue doing all the great things we currently do at Gove County Medical Center, while also growing and expanding the care and resources we provide,” said Douglas J. Gruenbacher, M.D., GCMC Family Practice, Obstetrics.
“Most importantly, nothing will change how we love and care for our patients. This is the future of healthcare, and we’re thankful to be part of it," Gruenbacher said.
Early kickoff priorities include aligning electronic health record systems, expanding access to visiting specialists, and supporting staff through integrated clinical and operational processes.
Both organizations emphasize that the partnership is designed to enhance local care, not replace it.
“This work reflects our joint commitment to keeping healthcare accessible, sustainable, and rooted in the communities we serve,” said Eddie Herrman, president and CEO at HaysMed. “We are proud to move into this next phase together.”
GCMC CEO Conner Fiscarelli added, “The extensive and thorough work by both teams to make this partnership happen will bring long-term benefits to our patients, providers, and neighbors across Gove County. I’ve grown to love this community and the incredible staff who make Gove County Medical Center so special. As we begin this new chapter with HaysMed, I’m excited to see our services grow and expand while continuing to care for our patients with the same heart that defines rural healthcare.”
Community members will receive regular updates as the partnership progresses.
For more information, visit gcmc.org/rural-health-reimagined.
We look forward to working alongside GCMC in the same collaborative and supportive manner that we do with Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in Larned, KS, further strengthening care and connections across our region.