Nevada will begin providing Medicaid to people leaving jails and prisons

CARSON CITY, Nev. (KOLO) – The state of Nevada is poised to join more than a dozen other states in providing Medicaid health care to people leaving jails, prisons and youth detention facilities.

The initiative stems from AB389, passed in the 82nd Legislative Session of the Nevada Legislature, and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, which requires certain health care services to be provided in justice settings by January 1, 2025. The state of Nevada estimates that about 12,000 people will benefit by 2030.

“This is an important step toward improving health equity in Nevada,” said Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Director Richard Whitley. “By covering health care and transition services, Nevada can achieve better outcomes for this population while also saving the state money.”

There will be a public comment period until November 24 to gather feedback on the initiative. Comments can be sent by email to [email protected].

“A strong reentry plan is about much more than just preventing criminal activity; it is about breaking the cycle to improve health outcomes,” said Nevada Department of Corrections Director James Dzurenda. “Providing continuity of care helps reduce relapse and creates a strong foundation on which to build a successful life.”

New services will include case management, mental health services, addiction treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and early screening, diagnosis and treatment services.

“Nevada residents emerging from incarceration are more likely to succeed if they have a healthy and stable start,” said Nevada Medicaid Administrator Stacy Weeks. “To develop this program, we need to hear from the community and our local partners about what is best for Nevadans, especially those with lived experience in the reentry process.”

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