One year ago, NKC Health joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network, bringing world-class expertise closer to home for patients across the Kansas City region. Today, that milestone continues to deliver meaningful benefits for our patients, providers and the community.
Since joining the network in April 2025, NKC Health providers have gained direct access to Mayo Clinic expertise to support diagnosis, treatment planning and complex medical decision-making at no extra cost to the patient.
The Mayo Clinic Care Network is a select group of independent healthcare organizations worldwide that meet rigorous standards for quality and clinical excellence. Membership affirms NKC Health’s long-standing commitment to exceptional care while remaining proudly independent and locally governed.
“Joining the Mayo Clinic Care Network is a historic accomplishment that enhances our capabilities and supports our goal of delivering the highest level of care to our community,” said Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD, president and CEO of NKC Health.
Keeping care close to home
One of the network’s most valuable benefits is the ability for NKC Health providers to request an electronic consultation, or eConsult, from a Mayo Clinic specialist without requiring the patient to travel to a Mayo Clinic campus.
During its first year as a member, NKC Health providers completed eConsults across 25 specialties, bringing Mayo Clinic insight to a wide range of patient cases.
“In medicine, there are many gray areas, and sometimes it’s helpful to have an extra pair of eyes on the patient to help guide decisions,” said Steven Kaster, MD, of NKC Health Gastroenterology. “Patients appreciate that they can access Mayo Clinic expertise while staying close to home.”
For patients, that means more expert opinions, faster answers and advanced care without leaving Kansas City.
Better outcomes at no extra cost
The collaboration is especially meaningful for patients facing complex or rare conditions, giving local care teams added support from one of the most respected names in medicine.
“This is a very new and novel aspect of care,” said John Park, MD, radiation oncologist and director of NKC Health Radiation Oncology. “Each consultation with Mayo Clinic is highly specific, tailored to each patient and documented in the chart. There is no cost to the patient, which removes a major barrier and allows providers to focus on what will help the patient most.”
In 85% of eConsults, Mayo Clinic specialists confirm the original care plan, reflecting the strong clinical expertise across the MCCN.
“This is one of our many tools to provide quality care to our patients while remaining an independent community health system,” said Kenna Belshe, DO, vice president and chief clinical officer and medical group director of NKC Health.
Trusted information for healthier decisions
When it comes to your health, having trusted information matters. That’s why NKC Health also offers access to reliable health information from Mayo Clinic on its website. Visit our health library to explore easy-to-understand videos, articles and resources that support informed health decisions.
