Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Members of the Kosciusko Leadership Academy (KLA) recently participated in a Community Connections session focused on where healthcare truly happens across Kosciusko County and the surrounding region.
Through a series of presentations and discussions, participants explored how healthcare extends far beyond hospital walls, influencing emergency response, workforce development, economic impact and the overall health of the community, according to a news release from KLA. The session highlighted the interconnected systems, organizations and professionals that work together to support individuals and families at every stage of care.
KLA participants began the session with an overview of community-based healthcare delivery. Chad Towner, CEO of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, highlighted how hospitals function as complex organizations, supporting thousands of jobs and partnering with industries ranging from manufacturing and logistics to education, finance, technology and tourism. Participants gained insight into how healthcare systems balance patient safety, operational excellence, and financial sustainability while serving as anchors within their communities.
The conversation then shifted to the topic of mental and emotional health and Bowen Health’s role as a major economic and workforce driver. Dr. Rob Ryan, CEO of Bowen Health, shared how Bowen Health provides integrated care across multiple counties, combining mental health services, addiction recovery, life skills coaching, crisis intervention and federally qualified healthcare services including dental and eventually vision care. The discussion emphasized how patient-centered models, income-based fee structures and thoughtful facility design improve access, dignity and long-term health outcomes while supporting diverse populations.
The session concluded with a focus on emergency response and pre-hospital care led by Alicia Mediano of Lutheran EMS Kosciusko. She shared the history, growth and evolving role of EMS in Kosciusko County, emphasizing advanced training, community outreach and innovative approaches such as mobile integrated health. Participants learned how EMS teams play a critical role not only in emergency response, but also in prevention, education and improved patient outcomes across the county.
The next KLA session will be about “Planning for the Future of Kosciusko County.” That program is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb 17 and will be held at Warsaw Municipal Airport.
KLA is now in its 43rd year of service to the county. As an independent 501(c)(3) organization, KLA conducts biweekly morning sessions across Kosciusko County, exposing emerging leaders to a wide variety of local topics and experts. The program’s annual white paper projects have provided meaningful benefits to citizens and communities throughout the county.
For more information, visit www.kosciuskoleadership.org
