In an effort to address the shortage of healthcare professionals in Nevada, Gov. Joe Lombardo has issued an executive order calling upon the state’s Patient Protection Commission for assistance. Lombardo emphasized the importance of the PPC reviewing the health care needs of Nevadans and finding solutions to the current challenges faced in building an adequate health-care workforce to care for residents.
Nevada ranked 45th in the nation for the ratio of active physicians to the population in 2021, with only 218 per 100,000 residents compared to the national average of 272, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges. Approximately 70% of the state’s population lives in areas with a shortage of primary care providers, as indicated by state data.
To address these challenges, Lombardo has outlined specific areas for the PPC to focus on, including attracting and retaining health care workers, improving access to primary care and public health services, and identifying funding options to strengthen the healthcare workforce. Moreover, strategies for increasing reimbursement and evaluating state investments in healthcare workforce capacity will also be examined.
One approach that may help alleviate some of these challenges is reciprocity agreements between states that allow healthcare providers from other states to easily practice within Nevada’s borders. However, licensing requirements and other barriers have hindered some providers from working in Nevada. The American Dental Association and National Center for Interstate Compacts have presented a reciprocity compact for dentists and dental hygienists that could help overcome some of these barriers.
Lombardo’s call to action for the Patient Protection Commission signals a proactive approach to finding sustainable solutions to Nevada’s healthcare workforce shortage. By taking steps now, he hopes that Nevada can build a strong and capable healthcare system that meets the needs of its residents well into the future.
