Providing quality healthcare is vital to creating thriving communities. But for many rural Nevadans, this access can often feel out of reach. Nevada Health Link aims to change that, connecting rural individuals with the essential healthcare coverage and services. At the heart of this initiative, is the goal of empowering these communities to make informed decisions about their insurance plans.
A Necessity for Care
Nevadans in rural areas face unique healthcare challenges, such as long distances to medical facilities or limited access to individual plans through carriers. But at Nevada Health Link, there are Qualified Health Plans offered from at least 2 carriers in every county of Nevada. Additionally, there’s a general lack of awareness about the resources available including financial assistance–all of which can actively prevent residents from acquiring the care they need and are eligible for. For example, as of January 2025:
- In Washoe County more than 8% of residents are uninsured, with a population of more than 24k being eligible for help on their health insurance premiums.
- In Elko County 7% of residents are uninsured, with a population more than 2k being eligible for help on their health insurance premiums.
These figures highlight the necessity for accessible, informed, and affordable healthcare solutions in Nevada’s rural communities. Taking the steps to address these challenges is crucial for developing a healthier, more resilient community.
Access to Resources
Tackling the barriers facing rural communities requires the informed guidance of brokers and navigators to play an important role in making the health insurance process more accessible. Recognizing the broad needs of rural families, Nevada Health Link actively invests in these community partnerships in order to expand its impact. In October 2024, Nevada Health Link hosted a conversation to discuss rural health challenges with Reisa Nolte of Golden Years Solutions and Korine Viehweg of Family Respite Care.
Reisa, a health insurance broker in Elko County, grew up in a rural community herself, and is uniquely positioned to understand the challenges facing rural Nevadans. “One of the ways I help the rural Nevada area is being able to connect with my community. I grew up here [Spring Creek], so I have an idea of my audience. It’s been a really huge blessing to me because I can connect with more members, I can help educate them with health insurance needs.”
Similarly, Korine Viehweg, the Executive Director at Family Respite Care of Nevada, is working to address another area of need by providing caregivers with necessary relief. This free program offers a safe and immersive environment for children with special needs, aged 3 months to 15 years. “The need is large,” Korine said. “There are 67,000 children across the state of Nevada with a qualifying diagnosis for our program.”
Through collaborative efforts in areas like Reno, Sparks, Carson City, and Elko, Nevada Health Link and its partners are working to drive awareness about crucial health services for those in rural communities.
Reisa touched on this point saying,“I think the biggest thing is knowing that they have access to that help,” Reisa said. “Nevada Health Link it’s a great site, it’s actually really user-friendly.”
Free assistance is available through licensed professionals, no matter where you are in the state. Use Nevada Health Link’s find local assistance look-up tool to find help near you, over the phone, or virtually.
Take Action
Nevada Health Link’s Open Enrollment is November 1–January 15. Outside of the Open Enrollment Period, you may be able to enroll in health insurance through a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a Qualifying Life Event, such as: losing health insurance, changing marital status, moving to a different area, and having a baby.
Nevadans can connect with a broker or navigator to make the enrollment process easier, any time of year. Two-thirds of enrollees have received free assistance from a broker, allowing them to properly advocate for their healthcare needs.
Explore Nevada Health Link today to find a broker or navigator that can support you in finding suitable coverage.