Carson City, NV October 31, 2024
Nevada is poised to join more than a dozen states providing Medicaid coverage to people transitioning from prison, jail, and youth correctional facilities to the community. This initiative arises from new state and federal legislative mandates that aim to support a successful reentry period by bridging the health care gap before and after release back to the community. An estimated 12,000 Nevadans will benefit by 2030.
"This is a major step for improving health equity in Nevada,” Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Director Richard Whitley said. “By covering health care and transitional services, Nevada can achieve better outcomes for this population along with cost savings to the State.”
Nevada Medicaid is hosting a public comment period through Nov. 24 to collect community and stakeholder feedback on the Justice Involved Reentry Initiative prior to submitting the State’s application for federal approval to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Comments can be submitted by email to 1115Waivers@dhcfp.nv.gov. Public workshops will be held on Nov. 6 and Nov. 13. To participate, learn more and stay informed, visit the web page and sign up for email updates.
“A robust re-entry plan entails much more than just avoiding criminal activity, it is about breaking cycles in favor of better health outcomes,” Director of the Nevada Department of Corrections James Dzurenda said. “Providing continuity of health care helps reduce recidivism and creates the solid foundation upon which successful lives are built.”
New services will include case management, mental health services, substance use treatment, medication-assisted treatment and early screening, diagnostic, and treatment services.
“Nevadans transitioning from incarceration are more likely to be successful with a healthy, stable start,” Nevada Medicaid Administrator Stacie Weeks said. “To design this program, we need to hear from the community and our local partners on what works best for Nevadans, especially those with lived experience in the reentry process.”
This initiative arises from Assembly Bill 389 that passed during the 82nd Legislative Session and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 that requires some health services to be provided in justice facilities by Jan. 1, 2025.
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Nevada Medicaid is free and low-cost health insurance for low-income workers and families, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and people who lost their jobs or are too sick to work. We offer financial protection from bankruptcy when unexpected illness strikes. We make health care possible in urban and rural areas. Apply for Medicaid or call 1-800-992-0900.