top of page

Statement of Position on
Healthcare

Healthcare is a fundamental right, and it is our responsibility to ensure that every Nevadan has access to quality healthcare that is affordable, inclusive, and efficient. As a U.S. Senate candidate for Nevada, I am committed to addressing the unique healthcare needs of our state. This healthcare position outlines our vision for a healthier Nevada.

 

Universal Access to Affordable Healthcare

We will work to provide every Nevadan with access to comprehensive and affordable healthcare. This includes:

  • Supporting the expansion of Medicaid to cover more low-income individuals and families.

  • Promoting a public option that allows Nevadans to choose a government-administered insurance plan.

  • Advocating for the reduction of healthcare costs and the elimination of surprise medical billing.

  • Enhancing access to rural healthcare facilities and services.

 

Healthcare Access Expansion

Medicaid Expansion:

  • Medicaid will be expanded to cover individuals with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level.

  • This expansion will ensure that low-income individuals have access to necessary healthcare services, including mental health and substance use treatment.

 

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Reforms:

  • Strengthen ACA marketplaces to increase the affordability and availability of healthcare plans.

  • Implement cost-sharing reductions and tax credits to make healthcare plans more accessible for individuals with low incomes.

 

Mental Health and Addiction Services

We believe that mental health is as important as physical health. Our goals include:

  • Expanding access to mental health services, including counseling and crisis intervention.

  • Combating the opioid crisis through treatment and prevention programs.

  • Reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.

 

Establishment of Mental Health Care Network

  • A national Mental Health Care Network consisting of qualified Mental Health Providers, facilities, and community-based organizations shall be established.

  • The Mental Health Care Network shall ensure access to comprehensive mental health care services nationwide, especially in underserved areas.

 

Access to Mental Health Care Services

  • All individuals shall have the right to access affordable and timely mental health care services, regardless of their socio-economic status, background, or geographic location.

  • Public and private health insurance plans shall cover mental health care services, with coverage requirements similar to those for physical health care services.

  • Federal funding shall be allocated to expand mental health care resources, including the recruitment and training of Mental Health Providers, the development of telehealth services, and the establishment of mental health support programs within schools, workplaces, and communities.

  • Employers shall be required to provide reasonable accommodations and support for employees with mental health conditions, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

 

Mental Health Awareness and Education

  • Mental health awareness and education programs shall be implemented at the national, state, and local levels to reduce stigma, promote early intervention, and help individuals identify mental health concerns.

  • Schools and educational institutions shall incorporate mental health education into their curriculum, ensuring students receive information about mental health, coping mechanisms, and available resources.

 

Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention

  • Crisis intervention services shall be accessible 24/7 and include telephone hotlines, online chat services, and mobile crisis teams, ensuring immediate support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

  • Federal funding shall be allocated to enhance suicide prevention efforts, including education, outreach programs, and training for Mental Health Providers, educators, and community members.

 

Substance Use Treatment and Prevention

​

Substance Use Disorder Treatment:

  • Increase funding for substance use disorder treatment facilities, including expanding the number of treatment centers and personnel.

  • Ensure that evidence-based treatment options, such as medication-assisted treatment, are accessible and covered by insurance plans.

 

Prevention and Education Programs:

  • Allocate funds for public awareness campaigns to educate individuals about substance use, its consequences, and available resources for prevention and treatment.

  • Enhance prevention efforts through community-based programs, school-based initiatives, and targeted interventions.

 

Integration of Behavioral Health and Primary Care:

  • Promote the integration of behavioral health services, including substance use treatment, within primary care settings, ensuring holistic and coordinated care.

  • Encourage collaboration among healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and substance use specialists to deliver comprehensive and integrated services.

 

Workforce Development

Addiction Medicine Training and Certification:

  • Establish funding and support for addiction medicine training programs for healthcare professionals.

  • Encourage healthcare providers to obtain addiction medicine certification to enhance their knowledge and skills in treating substance use disorders.

 

Women's Health and Reproductive Rights

We are dedicated to supporting women's health and reproductive rights by:

  • Ensuring access to reproductive healthcare, including contraception and abortion services.

  • Promoting policies that improve maternal health outcomes and reduce maternal mortality.

  • Advocating for equal pay and nondiscrimination in the workplace.

 

Seniors and Long-Term Care

We understand the unique healthcare needs of our senior population. Our initiatives will involve:

  • Supporting policies that ensure the financial security of seniors, including Social Security and Medicare.

  • Enhancing access to affordable long-term care services and promoting aging in place.

  • Addressing the rising costs of prescription drugs, making them more affordable for seniors.

 

Rural Healthcare and Telemedicine

Nevada's rural communities deserve quality healthcare too. We aim to:

  • Expand telemedicine services to improve access to healthcare in remote areas.

  • Support rural healthcare providers through funding and workforce development.

  • Encourage innovative solutions to address healthcare disparities in rural regions.

 

Public Health and Preparedness

We recognize the importance of public health in Nevada. Our efforts will involve:

  • Investing in public health infrastructure, including the development of a robust public health workforce.

  • Strengthening disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

  • Addressing environmental health concerns, particularly in areas affected by pollution and environmental degradation.

​

Native American Health

We acknowledge the unique healthcare needs of Native American communities in Nevada. Our commitments include:

  • Upholding tribal sovereignty and the federal government's trust responsibility to Native nations.

  • Expanding access to culturally competent healthcare services for Native Americans.

  • Addressing the social determinants of health within Native American communities.

 

Innovative Healthcare Solutions

We believe in embracing innovative solutions that improve healthcare access, quality, and affordability. Our strategies encompass:

  • Supporting research into medical breakthroughs and personalized medicine.

  • Encouraging the use of health information technology to improve healthcare delivery.

  • Promoting accountable care organizations and value-based care models.

 

Research and Data Collection

  • Funding shall be allocated for mental health research, including studies on the effectiveness of different interventions, identification of risk factors, and development of evidence-based best practices.

  • National data collection systems shall be established to monitor the prevalence of mental health disorders, treatment outcomes, and disparities in access to care to inform policy decisions and resource allocation.

 

Preventive Care and Wellness

We prioritize prevention and wellness by:

  • Encouraging healthy behaviors and lifestyles through community-based programs.

  • Supporting regular health check-ups and screenings to detect diseases early.

  • Addressing healthcare disparities and health equity issues.

 

Accountability and Oversight

  • The Department of Health and Human Services shall be responsible for implementing and overseeing the provisions outlined in this bill.

  • Regular reporting and evaluation shall be conducted to assess the effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of mental health care services nationwide.

bottom of page