Elko County committee recommends full‑time Jackpot transit driver to maintain medical trips

The Elko County Budget Committee voted to forward a recommendation to the County Commission to convert a part‑time transportation position serving Jackpot (Get My Ride Transit Service) into a full‑time post to maintain medical trips to Twin Falls.

Chair said Nevada Health Centers is no longer providing physician coverage, including telehealth, in the area and that the change is intended to ensure residents can reach doctors and pick up prescriptions. "Nevada Health Centers is no longer providing physician coverage, in the area, even telehealth at this point," the Chair said. Staff told the committee that Kayla’s budget covers roughly 75% of the additional hours and that the town is willing to cover the remaining portion — about $15,500 — to make the change feasible.

Committee members discussed interim fixes and partnerships to restore local access. Sean Burt, a county staff member, said the advisory board heard that "they will be sending the Wendover nurse practitioner... to Jackpot once every other month," noting that a full local provider is likely two to three months away. Committee members suggested exploring courier delivery of routine prescriptions, partnerships with nearby clinics or St. Luke’s, and coordination with town staff to preserve clinic infrastructure.

A committee member moved to approve the recommendation and the motion was seconded; the committee agreed to forward the proposal to the County Commission. The Chair instructed staff to place the item on next week’s commission agenda. The committee’s action is advisory; final authority rests with the County Commission.