Marena Works discusses important considerations for policy and services in order to promote health equity in rural communities. She shares barriers to health for citizens living in rural communities, and innovative strategies for overcoming these challenges. In addition, she highlights health disparities and what needs to be done in order to support citizens who live in rural areas.
Marena Works, MSN, MPH, RN
Marena Works is a Board-Certified Public Health Clinical Nurse Specialist and is currently working for UNR as a Public Health Policy and Planning Consultant and for Elko County as the Deputy Health Officer. Marena previously worked for Nevada Health Centers as Director of Clinical Services. Marena spent 10 years working for Carson City where she held positions as Director for Carson City Health and Human Services and Deputy City Manager. Prior to Carson City, Marena was the Chief School Nurse for the Carson City School District.
Marena earned her Master of Nursing, Master of Public Health, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing, all from the University of Nevada, Reno, and a certificate in Population Health Management from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She holds a certification in Public/Community Health Nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Marena also serves on the University of Nevada, Reno School of Public Health Advisory Board, Carson Tahoe Health Audit and Community Benefits Committee.
Marena has lived in northern Nevada since the early 1980’s and enjoys outside activities as well as spending time with her husband, four children and grandchildren.
Key Terms: Rural health, healthspan, lifespan, mental health, chronic disease, cultural competency, community advocacy, public health, substance use, access to care, clinician shortage, telehealth
