Lawmakers Tour MU Health Care to Discuss Maternal, Pediatric And Behavioral Health Needs

MU Health - Group Photo.9.8.2026

Sen. Stephen Webber, Rep. Kathy Steinhoff and Rep. Gregg Bush toured MU Health Care on Sept. 8 to learn more about the health system's efforts to expand access to care and address critical health care needs in mid-Missouri. 

During the visit, lawmakers toured the Children's Hospital and Birthing Center, where hospital leaders highlighted the coordinated care now available for mothers and children closer to home following the opening of the new hospital in 2024.

Hospital leaders also discussed the vital services supported through the federal 340B pharmacy discount program. These programs help strengthen access to care and provide resources that benefit patients and communities across the region.

Behavioral health also was a key topic of discussion. Leaders shared concerns about the ongoing behavioral health crisis and the shortage of inpatient treatment beds across Missouri, which can make it difficult for patients to access the longer-term behavioral health services they need.

The visit provided an opportunity for lawmakers and health care leaders to discuss policies and legislative proposals affecting patient access to care, hospital operations and the delivery of services throughout the community.

This visit reflects the Missouri Hospital Association's ongoing efforts to connect legislators with hospital leaders across the state and foster meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing Missouri's health care system. By facilitating these discussions, MHA helps policymakers better understand how legislation affects patient care and hospital operations while strengthening advocacy on behalf of Missouri hospitals.

Hospital leaders interested in hosting legislative visits can contact MHA's governmental relations team for assistance with coordination, scheduling and key policy discussions.