Central Nevada Health District brings rural-focused health care

In response to the health care vulnerabilities exposed during a global crisis, four rural counties and a city in Nevada have collaborated to build a solution: the Central Nevada Health District (CNHD). 

As the state’s first multi-county rural health district, the CNHD is an example of how local communities can create effective, grassroots-led solutions to take care of their own. It provides a full range of clinical, environmental and public health services, from immunizations and education to ensuring clean water and safe food.

Covering Churchill, Mineral, Eureka and Pershing counties, along with the city of Fallon, the CNHD’s strength lies in its local, community-centric approach. Unlike top-down mandates, this district was born from necessity, with a focus on removing barriers, building trust and fostering community connections.

“The Central Nevada Health District is care that’s in your corner,” said Dr. Justin Heath, the medical representative of the board. “It’s accessible, community-centric and meets people where they are. Public health in central Nevada can’t rely on the same solutions as our urban neighbors. Our communities are spread out, diverse and strong. We’ve built a system that reflects that and is working to meet the needs of rural Nevadans.”

In its few years of operation, the CNHD has been working in the background to protect the health and safety of its communities. The district reports it has improved vaccine access, expanded immunization programs and launched local clinics and outreach campaigns. Each participating community now has a clear point of contact for public health support, including family planning and environmental health, where none existed before.

The district offers services with a sliding scale fee and employs bilingual staff to meet people where they are, both literally and figuratively. They also provide hands-on guidance to local small businesses, helping them meet health standards in a practical and supportive way.

For its innovative approach, the CNHD recently received a 2025 NACo Achievement Award in the Health category.

Residents seeking health resources are encouraged to visit CentralNevadaHD.org for information on clinical services, immunizations, disease reporting, environmental health and community alerts.