Press Release: Attorney General Aaron Ford Addresses Impact of Medicaid Rollbacks on Nevada Health Centers
Last week, Attorney General Aaron Ford visited Northern Nevada HOPES and the Community Health Alliance clinic, engaging with staff from federally qualified health centers about the potential consequences of the Trump administration’s proposed federal Medicaid and public health funding rollbacks. During the meeting, Ford highlighted the significant vulnerability of patients reliant on Medicaid, noting that 30% of those served by HOPES utilize Medicaid.
Ford emphasized that without adequate funding, many patients might not receive essential services or would have to rely on sliding-scale services, which adjust medical costs based on income. However, these payments often fail to cover the actual operational costs of clinics. He asserted that his office is actively pursuing legal actions to block these federal cuts, which threaten approximately $35 million in public health grants.
Sharon Chamberlain, CEO of HOPES, expressed deep concern over the rollbacks, indicating they would compel health centers to overhaul their entire service delivery models, potentially limiting support and effectiveness. Chamberlain warned that if Medicaid funding is reduced, patients may shift from preventative care to more costly emergency services, exacerbating health issues that cannot simply vanish.
Ford reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding public health services and supporting Nevada’s vulnerable populations through ongoing legal actions.
KUNR’s coverage of this critical issue is supported by a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which aims to enhance public awareness and engagement regarding Nevada’s state government activities. Nevada media outlets are encouraged to share this report, with appropriate credit to KUNR Public Radio and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. For more information, please contact KUNR General Manager Brian Duggan at bduggan@kunr.org.
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