High Plains Mental Health Center reflects on its legacy, looks to future

High Plains Mental Health Center is reflecting on its six-decade history as it prepares for the future of behavioral health services in Kansas. Since its start in 1964, the organization has served communities across the northwest and north central regions of the state. This longevity is rooted in a stable leadership model, having been guided by only four executive directors in its sixty-year existence. From Dr. John Cody in the early years to the current director, Craig Poe, this consistency has allowed the center to maintain a steady focus on its mission.

The organization attributes its success to the hard work of its employees, clinicians, and community partners. These individuals have built a foundation that allows for the expansion of care and the refinement of services. This institutional knowledge remains a key factor in how the center approaches current challenges in health care delivery.

Looking ahead, High Plains Mental Health Center is prioritizing its operational mission. The organization recently resolved a legal matter. While they deny any liability or wrongdoing, leadership stated that they are pleased to move past this issue to concentrate entirely on their primary goal of patient care. By focusing on people and partnerships, they aim to improve outcomes for the families and individuals they serve.

Craig Poe, the current Executive Director, emphasized that the legacy of the organization is tied to the collective belief in its mission. He noted that the center remains dedicated to the people of the region as it evolves to meet future needs. The focus for the coming years remains on collaboration with stakeholders and the continued delivery of high-quality behavioral health services.