Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Yesterday, Governor Jim Pillen convened a roundtable briefing with members of his cabinet to highlight achievements from the current and past legislative sessions. At the meeting, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) CEO Steve Corsi highlighted significant progress in strengthening the state’s health system, expanding access to care, and improving outcomes for Nebraskans under Gov. Pillen’s leadership.
One of the most notable achievements is Nebraska securing $218.5 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), the eighth highest award in the nation, effectively ranking fourth among eligible states. This investment is aimed at modernizing care delivery, strengthening rural health systems, and improving long-term sustainability.
“This once-in-a-generation investment demonstrates not only strong leadership but also Gov. Pillen’s unique perspective as a professional veterinarian and farmer who deeply understands the health challenges facing rural communities,” said CEO Corsi.
Dr. Corsi also highlighted the elimination of the developmental disabilities (DD) waitlist, a more than three-decades long problem that forced Nebraskans with special needs and their families to wait for critical services.
Under Gov. Pillen’s direction, DHHS dedicated more than $18 million to eliminate the waitlist. Thanks to this investment, Nebraska families receive the services they need, when they need them, without having to wait. As a result, more people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are receiving resources and support than ever in Nebraska’s recent history.
Additional improvements include:
· Expansion of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and crisis stabilization units, particularly in rural areas, which provide 24/7 crisis care and comprehensive mental health and substance use services. Over the course of the Pillen Administration, DHHS has invested over $34 million in additional behavioral health initiatives to expand access to care, improve the Lincoln Regional Center, and treat individuals with serious mental illness.
· Implementation of first-in-the-nation policy efforts, including Medicaid work requirements, SNAP reform measures to remove harmful soda and energy drinks from eligible purchase items, and signing an executive order protecting foster youth survivor benefits.
· Among the first states to respond to the “Make America Healthy Again” report by developing “food as medicine” strategies and statewide health improvement initiatives focused on nutrition and physical activity.
“These accomplishments reflect a commitment to accountability, innovation, and improving the lives of Nebraskans,” said CEO Corsi. “Under Gov. Pillen’s leadership, we are not only addressing long-standing challenges, but also building a stronger, more sustainable health system that meets the needs of our communities today and into the future. From eliminating the DD waitlist to expanding behavioral health services, and securing historic federal investments, we are delivering real results for the people we serve.”
At the cabinet meeting, Dr. Corsi also emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen fiscal responsibility, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively. Enhanced oversight and programming integrity measures continue to be a priority.
Looking ahead, under Gov. Pillen’s leadership, DHHS will continue to build on this foundation by expanding access to care, supporting workforce development, and advancing innovative solutions to improve health outcomes across Nebraska.
