Sandy Point Native Appointed Chief Medical Officer at Ascension Via Christi in Kansas

Dr. Maurice Duggins’s appointment as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Ascension Via Christi in Wichita, Kansas, marks a significant milestone in his career and a moment of immense pride for his homeland of St. Kitts and Nevis. His journey from the small town of Sandy Point to a leadership position in one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States exemplifies the power of dedication, hard work, and a commitment to serving others. This appointment is not merely a personal achievement; it serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals in St. Kitts and Nevis and beyond, demonstrating that with perseverance and talent, geographical boundaries can be transcended, and dreams can be realized on a global scale.

Dr. Duggins’s new role as CMO at St. Joseph Hospital, part of the Ascension Via Christi network, places him at the forefront of healthcare delivery in Kansas. Ascension Via Christi, a cornerstone of the Kansas healthcare landscape for over 135 years, consists of six hospitals and 75 care sites, serving communities across the state with a dedicated workforce of over 6,400 associates. The network’s significant contribution to community well-being, including over $62.4 million in community benefits in FY2024, underscores its commitment to accessible and equitable healthcare. Dr. Duggins’s leadership within this extensive network will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare delivery and influence the lives of countless individuals across Kansas.

Dr. Duggins’s journey with Via Christi began in 2002, and over the years, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to both patient care and medical education. As a faculty member of the Via Christi Family Medicine Residency Program, he has played a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of physicians, imparting his knowledge and experience to shape their professional development. His dedication to clinical practice, which he will conclude on June 30, 2025, has earned him the respect and gratitude of his patients, who will be informed about the transition in the coming days.

Dr. Duggins’s leadership extends beyond his clinical practice and educational endeavors. His service as President of the Medical Society of Sedgwick County in 2023, Medical Staff President, and his involvement in numerous board and committee appointments highlight his commitment to advancing the medical profession and advocating for improved healthcare practices. Since 2011, his role as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Kansas School of Medicine has further solidified his influence on the future of healthcare, allowing him to contribute to the academic development and training of future medical professionals.

Ascension Via Christi’s affiliation with the larger Ascension health system, one of the nation’s largest Catholic and nonprofit healthcare systems, amplifies the impact of Dr. Duggins’s appointment. Ascension’s presence across 18 states and Washington, D.C., along with its substantial contribution of $2.1 billion in care to underserved populations in the last fiscal year, demonstrates its unwavering dedication to providing compassionate and accessible healthcare to all, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Dr. Duggins’s leadership within this vast network will contribute to the realization of Ascension’s mission and further solidify its commitment to serving vulnerable communities.

Dr. Duggins’s appointment signifies not just professional advancement but also a powerful message of hope and opportunity for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. His success stands as a testament to the potential that lies within the small island nation and inspires future generations to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. His achievement transcends personal accomplishment, becoming a symbol of national pride and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, individuals from even the smallest corners of the world can achieve greatness and make significant contributions to the global community. Dr. Duggins’s story is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that excellence knows no borders and that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.