Letter to the Editor: Closure of Fallon Family Medicine Highlights Rural Healthcare Crisis

Submitted by: Nate Helton

The recent announcement that the Northern Nevada Medical Group (NNMG) Fallon clinic will close next month came has shocked our community. This abrupt shutdown not only underscores the fragile state of healthcare access in rural Nevada, but also brings to light the critical consequences of losing dedicated medical professionals like Dr. Misty Kasky, D.O., and Dr. Ryan Kasky, D.O., from our town.

Many Fallon residents have long struggled to access quality medical services. With few clinic options and specialists in the area. The NNMG Fallon clinic closure leaves patients, especially those with chronic conditions, without close alternatives. In addition to Family Medicine, the Fallon clinic has specialists from surrounding areas providing Cardiology, Podiatry, and General Surgery appointments. None of these doctors will be continuing in the NNMG Fallon clinic after the closure. This will affect people's health in a myriad of ways and increase strain on emergency rooms further away.

Dr. Misty Kasky and Dr. Ryan Kasky have been pillars of the Fallon community for years, providing caring and comprehensive care. Demand for appointments with both doctors was so high that new appointments were booked out for over a year, as many residents can attest to themselves. Their departure leaves both a skills gap and a loss of relationships with patients. Losing such committed doctors damages the community's support system and raises concerns for the future of local healthcare.

The clinic closure reminds us that rural areas need more investment in health infrastructure. Without resources, communities will continue facing limited care, risking people's well-being. 

As Fallon responds, leaders must address the root causes, like attracting and keeping medical workers, expanding telehealth and developing new clinics. Elected officials and community leaders at all levels of government need to do what they can to help our community dig out of this dire situation.

Additionally, when large corporations and hospital systems like Northern Nevada Health Systems—run by a subsidiary of United Health Services, Inc., and based in Pennsylvania—are one of only a few providers in rural communities like ours, a clinic closure can be disastrous. 

The shortsighted and irresponsible decision to close the Fallon clinic was not made by Drs. Kasky, but by the leadership team of Northern Nevada Medical Group. I urge all concerned citizens to contact those in charge and share feedback, voice concerns, and demand accountability. The administration team can be reached at 775-356-4001. Clinic front desk and call center staff are not the proper source of any frustrations. Keep in mind that Fallon clinic staff were just informed that they are losing their jobs; and treat them with kindness and respect.

Working together, the community can advocate for the healthcare support Fallon desperately needs. This closure should prompt action to ensure all residents can access the care they deserve. The health of the community depends on it.

On March 18, Dr. Ryan Kasky’s informed an existing patient that he and Dr. Misty Kasky are planning to continue practicing the community. Details will be provided as soon as they become available.