Via Christi, the largest health care provider in Kansas, is looking to expand its reach in the Wichita metro area by purchasing a Derby hospital that closed suddenly in January after filing for bankruptcy.
In a March 11 news release, Via Christi announced a letter of intent to purchase the former Rock Regional Hospital, which closed Jan. 7.
“By signing this letter of intent, we are taking an important step toward restoring healthcare services in Derby with the intent that this facility can once again serve patients and families for years to come. While there is more work ahead, we are encouraged by the opportunity to reestablish care in a way that is sustainable and responsive to community needs,” Via Christi’s chief strategy officer Christopher Dodson stated in the release.
A letter of intent is non-binding and occurs before a formal contract. The purchase hinges on several standard closing conditions. No purchase price was disclosed.
If the acquisition is successful, the press release said Via Christi would evaluate the need of the community and offer services based on those needs and quality standards, as well as readiness.
A Via Christi spokesperson told The Eagle the health care giant will explore employment opportunities, including potentially hiring former staff, “depending on operational needs and timing.”
Opened in 2019, Rock Regional was the only hospital in Derby and served the surrounding communities of Mulvane, Wellington, Winfield, Ark City and Rose Hill. The 31-bed hospital cost $40 million to build and previously employed around 200 people.
“Ascension Via Christi understands the important role Rock Regional Hospital has played in the community and is committed to honoring its legacy of patient care and clinical excellence,” the press release reads. “This decision reflects Ascension Via Christi’s intent to provide inpatient services at this location in the future and restore access to quality care while supporting long-term sustainability.”
The hospital filed for bankruptcy in December, citing more than $50 million in liabilities, including more than $23 million in rent payments to CBC Derby LLC, which owns the property.
After a temporary ruling allowed the facility to remain open, the hospital closed its doors in January after a judge ruled the landlord could proceed with eviction. The hospital announced its closure with a Facebook post.
“Additional details regarding timing, clinical services, and next steps will be shared as plans are finalized and approvals are received,” Via Christi’s Wednesday release reads.
This story was originally published March 11, 2026 at 10:55 AM.
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Lindsay Smith is a service journalism reporter for the Wichita Eagle. Previously, she was editor-in-chief of Wichita State University’s student newspaper, The Sunflower, for two years. She graduated from WSU in December 2022 with a degree in journalism.