Kan. panel backs closing state hospital in Topeka

Eds: APNewsNow. CLARIFIES that recommendations could mean but would not mandate fewer patients at Parsons. Will be led.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) -- A commission in Kansas recommends that the state close its hospital for the developmentally disabled in Topeka.

The Lawrence Journal-World reported Thursday that the Facilities Closure and Realignment Commission's recommendations also could mean fewer patients at the state's other hospital for the developmentally disabled, in Parsons.

The commission's proposals, approved in a meeting Wednesday, will go to Gov. Mark Parkinson.

Spokeswoman Beth Martino said Thursday that Parkinson is waiting to see the commission's full report before making any decisions.

Commission members said the state could save money by moving patients from the Kansas Neurological Institute in Topeka and the Parsons State Hospital and Training Center into community programs.