Ascension Via Christi announces the closure of the Fort Scott Emergency Department.

 Ascension Via Christi will cease operations at its emergency department in Fort Scott on December 20. The health care providers cites a steady decline in daily visits and its overall daily census as the primary factor in the decision. Other economic challenges have also contributed to the closure. Drew Talbott, president of Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg says it was the only option for them and that there are other providers in the region poised to serve the residents of Fort Scott and neighboring communities.