The LGBTQ+ Center hosted a powerful and timely conversation at the Gavin J. Goorjian Community Health Center on April 6th in recognition of National Public Health Awareness Week. The focus was clear: access to care, and the critical role of the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program in making that care possible.

Why 340B Matters Right Now

For many in our community, health care can feel out of reach, especially without insurance. That reality was brought to life by patient voices during the panel, including individuals who shared how they found not just care, but compassion and dignity, at the Goorjian Community Health Center.

One speaker described arriving in Las Vegas unsure of where to turn, only to be welcomed with open arms and connected to essential services, from prescriptions to behavioral health support. Another shared how care here felt fundamentally different: personal, human, and rooted in community, not systems.

That level of care is not accidental. It is made possible in large part by the 340B program, which allows community health centers like The Center to purchase medications at significantly reduced costs. Those savings are reinvested directly into patient care, helping to cover services that often fall through the cracks, including labs, transportation, and comprehensive support beyond what insurance may provide.

As Dr. Leana Ramirez, Chief Healthcare Officer, shared during the event, the 340B program is a lifeline. It allows the Center to deliver truly holistic care, ensuring patients are not just seen, but supported at every step of their health journey.

However, this essential program is at risk.

The Importance of Protecting 340B

With ongoing discussions at the federal level around health care funding, Medicaid requirements, and potential changes to the Affordable Care Act, the future of 340B remains uncertain. Leaders like Dina Titus are advocating to protect it, but community awareness and support are more important than ever.

This moment is about more than policy. It is about people. It is about ensuring that anyone, regardless of income, insurance status, or identity, can access the care they deserve.

We are deeply grateful to the partners who joined us for this important event and continue to support the health and wellbeing of our community:

• Molina Healthcare
• Aid for AIDS of Nevada
• Southern Nevada Health District
• ASP Cares
• Farm Fresh to You
• Adco Dental

Together, these partnerships and programs help create a continuum of care that is accessible, affirming, and community-driven.

If you believe in protecting access to care, now is the time to stay informed, get involved, and support organizations doing this work on the ground.

Because health care should never be out of reach.

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