Accessing health services in the Reno-Tahoe region requires awareness of both available programs and the transit routes used to reach them. Mountain highway conditions often dictate travel times for appointments or emergency services. Before departing, check I-80 road conditions or US-50 road conditions to ensure routes are open, particularly during winter.
Reno Police Mental Health Registry
The Reno Police Department maintains a voluntary Mental Health Online Registry. This program provides first responders—including police, firefighters, EMS, and dispatch personnel—with information about individuals who may experience a mental health crisis.
Submissions are voluntary and come from caregivers, family members, or the individuals themselves. The registry collects non-diagnostic information, such as preferred communication methods, known triggers, and effective calming strategies. This data is stored in a secure, CJIS-compliant database and is accessed by authorized personnel only during the performance of official duties. The registry does not provide medical diagnoses or treatment records.
Washoe County School District Behavioral Health
The Washoe County School District manages behavioral health supports through the MTSS Behavioral Health and Management Team. This team implements PBIS and restorative practices in classrooms to support student learning.
They offer training for staff, such as the Crisis Prevention Institute’s trauma-informed prevention and de-escalation training. The team also provides resources for families, covering topics like establishing home routines, managing challenging behaviors, and using positive language to support student success.
Clinical Services in El Dorado County
El Dorado County provides clinical services and infectious disease testing for residents. The Public Health Division offers low or no-cost vaccinations, including flu shots, as well as TB risk assessments and STD testing.
The county advises residents to receive routine care from their personal physicians, as those providers maintain comprehensive health records. If you are traveling through the region for medical appointments, monitor US-395 road conditions and SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions for potential delays.
Cameras on the drive south from Reno.
Emergency Medical Coordination
The Medical Health Operational Area Coordinator (MHOAC) Program in El Dorado County manages medical and health resources during disasters or emergencies. The MHOAC program maintains a 24/7 Duty Officer Program to coordinate with health and medical partners.
- Phone: 530-377-3256
- Email: [email protected]
The program is responsible for establishing situational awareness during incidents, identifying trigger points for specific events, and coordinating communication between departments and sections responsible for incident management.