On June 28, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed the FY25 state budget, finalizing a $15,000,000 state appropriation to Hannibal Regional to build a new cancer center in Kirksville. Since 2022, Kirksville has lacked life-saving radiation oncology services, creating an undue burden on area residents fighting cancer. Hannibal Regional, with the support of many partners, identified this critical issue and now with state support will begin efforts to offer this life-saving care in Kirksville.
This state investment into the local healthcare of northeast Missouri was led by Senator Cindy O’Laughlin, and supported by others including Senator Rusty Black, and Representatives Louis Riggs, Greg Sharpe, Chad Perkins and Danny Busick. While the state funding is a major injection of resources into this important project, it is not the only step needed to build the cancer center. Hannibal Regional has submitted a full Certificate of Need application in compliance with receiving approval for the major medical equipment over $1,000,000 for the linear accelerator and vault. The state Certificate of Need process will determine if there is an unmet need in the community and how it should be serviced.