Nevada Convenes Inaugural Meeting of the Rural Health Transformation Steering Committee to Strengthen Health Care Access and Support Rural Communities

Today, the State of Nevada took an important step in the effort towards strengthening access to high quality health care in rural and frontier communities by convening the inaugural meeting of Nevada's Rural Health Transformation Steering Committee. This committee brings together 15 representatives with a vast array of expertise and experience, ensuring the best interests of Nevada's rural communities are well represented.

"This is an historic opportunity to make a difference with these funds," said Nevada Health Authority Director, Stacie Weeks. "We are very excited about the opportunity we have before us and are determined to ensure these funds reach our rural communities and create sustainable improvements in access to care."

Rural communities in Nevada face unique challenges in accessing high quality and timely health care services. Nevada's Rural Health Transformation Program and the formation of its Steering Committee ensure that the most remote parts of Nevada have services that are close to home and are not left behind during a time of so many beneficial advances and improvements in health care.

During the meeting, board members and attendees received an overview of the RHT program and its goals, discussed bylaws and operational processes to guide the committee's work, highlighted the importance of maximizing award and applicant opportunity, and importantly, elected the Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee. Dr. Amber Donnelli, President of Great Basin College, was elected Chair and Nancy Bowen, CEO of Nevada Primary Care Association, was elected Vice Chair.

"Nevada's Rural Health Transformation Program is a historic investment to expand quality healthcare access across the state," said Governor Lombardo. "By bringing together leaders and experts through the Rural Health Transformation Steering Committee, we are taking a critical step toward strengthening rural health infrastructure, accelerating healthcare technology, and ensuring that families across rural Nevada can access the care they need."

"This is about more than rankings - it's about momentum," said Governor Joe Lombardo. "From Las Vegas to Carson City, Nevada is creating an economy that works for residents, supports local businesses, and keeps our communities strong as we grow." The report's analysis emphasizes workforce fundamentals, an area where Nevada continues to excel. Through the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED), investments in workforce training, education partnerships, and upskilling programs have strengthened the state's labor pipeline, enabling employers to access both governmental support and talent when they need it.

To stay informed on updates and future meetings, please visit the Nevada Rural Health Transformation Website.

About the Rural Health Transformation Program

Governor Lombardo's administration successfully secured $180 million for Nevada in the first year of the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. The funding will support efforts to address longstanding rural healthcare challenges, including upgrading essential facilities and systems to enhance service delivery, attracting and retaining a robust healthcare workforce in these areas, and promoting the adoption of innovative technologies to ensure high-quality care becomes accessible closer to patients' homes.

About the Nevada Health Authority

Governor Lombardo launched the Nevada Health Authority (NVHA) on July 1, 2025, after signing Senate Bill 494 into law. The creation of this new agency was a primary goal of his 2025 legislative agenda, aiming to streamline the state's healthcare system. NVHA leads statewide efforts to improve health outcomes for all Nevadans through policy, innovation, and strategic partnerships. NVHA works closely with Nevada Medicaid, the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, the Public Employee Benefits Program, and other state and local agencies to expand access to care, strengthen the health care workforce, and improve service delivery across communities.

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Chloe Chism
Public Information Officer II
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