Molina Healthcare of Nevada (“Molina”) has announced a $250,000 grant to Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada (“WHASN”), expanding access to obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) services in Las Vegas. The partnership will support the recruitment of new physicians and advanced practice providers that will enhance access to high-quality OB/GYN care and improve outcomes for fetal and maternal health amid a severe shortage of this specialty care statewide.

Nevada is among the lowest-ranked states for women’s health. A 2023 review of OB/GYN providers showed only 117 in the state, and March of Dimes data indicated 47.1% of counties in the state are labeled as maternity care deserts, highlighting a shortage of women’s specialty health care. A Commonwealth Fund report shows Nevada ranks last in the country in women’s health care quality and prevention.

“Our commitment to Nevada means a commitment to ensuring women across the state have access to the quality health care they need and deserve to improve their health and well-being,” said Rob Baughman, plan president at Molina Healthcare of Nevada. “This partnership enables WHASN to offer more competitive salaries and recruitment incentives to attract and retain providers that will make a positive health difference in all phases of a woman’s life.”

The support from Molina helped retain two former University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine residents, underscoring Molina and WHASN’s continued dedication to supporting Nevadans directly where they live and work.

“Our community suffers from a serious lack of women’s health care providers and Molina is helping us proactively address that need by enabling WHASN to appeal to new recruits and remain competitive,” said Dr. Rebecca Herrero, obstetrician gynecologist at WHASN. “We are proud to share that, through this and other funding, as well as provider support programs, four physicians and two advanced practice providers have committed to join our practice as of the second quarter of this year.”

About Molina Healthcare of Nevada

Molina Healthcare of Nevada, Inc. provides government-funded, quality health care, serving members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace programs in Nevada. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Nevada, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.

About Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada

Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada is a leading group of qualified OB/GYN doctors who specialize in providing high quality health care for women. They offer a full range of innovative techniques and technologies to promote and maintain good health practices through all phases of a woman’s life.

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