RENOWN NEWSROOM

Renown Health is excited to announce the launch of free pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood and grandparent classes. Beginning this month, Renown’s comprehensive selection of childbirth education and support for expecting and new parents is now available to all in the community as a free resource, and as part of Renown’s community benefit mission.  “As Reno’s only not-for-profit, integrated academic health care organization we are constantly investing in essential community benefits and services. Our goal is to enhance access to prenatal care and childbirth education to help improve health outcomes for mothers and children in Washoe County,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “By offering these free classes, we look to provide parents with the knowledge and support they need to confidently welcome their babies into the world, and to raise healthy children.”  "We are thrilled to offer childbirth classes to our community at no cost. We recognize the profound health benefits these classes provide, not only to expectant mothers, but to their families and the broader public,” says Jennifer Timmons, RN, Nursing Manager for Postpartum and the Newborn Nursery at Renown. “We want to promote healthier pregnancies and foster stronger, more resilient families. By removing financial barriers, we hope to reach and support every expecting parent in Washoe County.”  All Classes are now FREE including:  Pregnancy & Birth Class. An all-in-one day childbirth education course offered virtually or in-person, or a 7 Week in-person Thursday series childbirth preparation class, prepares mom and her partner for the many aspects of childbirth, postpartum, infant care and breastfeeding education. Certified instructors offer support and guidance to meet individual needs.  Comfort Measures for Birth Class. In this two-hour session, expecting parents learn labor coping skills including relaxation/meditation practice, breathing techniques, massage and acupressure.  Spinning Babies Parent Class. A four-hour class designed for expecting moms after the 20th week of pregnancy. This class highlights rotating the baby down and out of the pelvis. Preparing for Postpartum Virtual Class. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks that follow, the difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression, mother’s warning signs and adjustments once you return home. Breastfeeding Basics and Beyond Class. In this class taught by an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, mothers get off to a better start with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding Circle Gathering encourages breastfeeding moms to find support, exchange experiences, and discuss any concerns. Popular topics include milk supply, pumping, returning to work, sleeping, or lack of sleep, weight and more. Nurturing Your Newborn. This 2 in 1 class includes the Newborn Care Class and Breastfeeding Basics and Beyond. The morning portion of this class includes breastfeeding benefits and techniques. The afternoon segment covers newborn appearances and behavior, daily care, signs of illness, and when to call the doctor. Tummy time, comfort and soothing techniques, how to keep your baby safe, newborn screenings are discussed. Partners are encouraged to attend.  Baby Safe Class. This class helps prepare parents for emergencies that may occur in baby’s first year. Along with car seat safety and basic baby proofing, discussion will include basic first aid, prevention and treatment of common injuries. Grandparents and other caregivers are welcome to attend. Infant & Child CPR Class; This course is ideal for schools and students, new parents, grandparents, babysitters, and others interested in learning how to save a life.  Baby and Family Suites Tour; and Tours for Siblings (ages 2-8). Join a childbirth educator to learn more about our Baby and Family Suites, labor and delivery rooms housed in the new Labor Assessment Area, and the William N. Pennington Nursery.  Virtual Grandparents Workshop. Grandparenting has changed a great deal over the last generation. Grandparents will learn about newborn care, safe sleep environments, breastfeeding, car seats, product safety and how to help support new parents.  For more information and to register online for any class free of charge, visit www.renown.org/events.  Free Childbirth Classes Are One More Way That Renown Gives Back to Create a Healthier Community for All  Renown Health is the only locally owned, not-for-profit, charitable healthcare network in Reno. Being not-for-profit, or a 501 © 3 organization means that all Renown’s income stays locally- and is reinvested in people, programs and technology to improve the health of the community. In fact, Renown’s name - besides being the aspiration for care, means "Reno's Own.” With community is at the center of the organization’s mission, and through the affiliation with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health embraces a commitment to make a genuine difference in creating a healthier Nevada for all.  Maternal and Child Health: A Community Benefit Focus Area, 2025-2027 Renown Health’s Community Benefit Health Focus Areas are based on primary and secondary research collected as part of the 2023 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The CHNA includes input from community stakeholders representing the broad interests of the diverse communities served by Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center, including those stakeholders with expertise in community and public health. Health needs were identified in the CHNA and subsequently prioritized by community stakeholders.  From the prioritized health needs, Health Focus Areas were chosen based on criteria that consider the Renown Health’s team capacity to impact community needs, the strength of community partnerships and the alignment with Renown’s organizational strategic planning efforts. Through this Implementation Strategy, Renown Health is committed to identifying and closing health equity gaps in communities that are historically marginalized and vulnerable. Health Focus Areas for 2025-2027 are Mental Health; Access to Health Care and Community Services and Maternal and Child Health.  “Renown’s Community Benefit mission is to reduce health disparities, promote community wellness and improve access to care for vulnerable populations,” says Kerry Kelly, MPH, Manager of Community Health for Renown. “This includes offering free and discounted care to those unable to afford healthcare, and partnerships to address health and well-being. Our CHNA process showed Maternal and Child Health as a priority for the community. Improvements in healthcare services, better access to prenatal care, and free education on maternal and child health may help to decrease the infant mortality rate and improve the health outcomes for mothers and children in Washoe County. By working together, and offering free childbirth classes, we can help have a positive impact on the health and well- being of our community.” Secure a brighter future for local mothers and children by donating to the Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545 or at renown.org/About/Renown-Health-Foundation.   About Renown Health  Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center for adults and children, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Launches Free Childbirth Classes for Expectant Parents

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation technology (ECMO) for patients with severe heart or respiratory failure is now available locally thanks to a grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust  Renown Health, the Level II Trauma Center for the region and the leader in offering the most innovative treatments for critically ill adults and children, is now home to northern Nevada’s first and only comprehensive extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program.  The ECMO machines arrived at the Cardiac ICU at Renown Regional Medical Center this week, and the multidisciplinary team of highly specialized physicians, Critical Care intensivists, Cardiovascular surgeons, perfusionists, registered nurses and therapists are ready to provide minute-by-minute support for patients receiving ECMO treatment. The multidisciplinary ECMO team includes pharmacists and respiratory therapists who are ready to receive their first patient. “At Renown Health, we are constantly investing in our clinicians, essential services, and medical innovations to help keep care local. Access to health care—both preventive care and advanced treatment—is critical for a community’s well-being and optimal health,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “We are incredibly grateful for the Helmsley Charitable Trust and their $3.5-million grant to help establish the first ECMO program for the region at Renown. ECMO saves lives. Neighbors in need of ECMO life-support can now stay close to home and loved ones, and no longer need to be transported to facilities outside our area for this type of advanced care.” What is ECMO? “ECMO is a life support technology for patients with the most severe heart and lung illnesses,” explains Richard King, MD, FACEP Division Chief- Critical Care Medicine at Renown Health and Co-Medical Director of the ECMO program. “At Renown, our technology allows a patient's heart and lungs to heal and recover from illnesses, diseases, and injuries the body has sustained. The ECMO machine is a portable life-support system used for severe cases of heart and lungfailure. The ECMO procedure provides minimally invasive heart-lung bypass support outside of the body. The machine then removes carbon dioxide from the patient’s blood and adds oxygen. Basically, ECMO serves as your heart and lungs, supplying blood with oxygen and pumped back into the body, allowing your own organs to rest and to help the impaired function.” Why is ECMO important in saving lives?  “This state-of-the-art procedure can save lives in cases that otherwise would offer little chance of survival and can act as a bridge to those needing heart or lung transplants,” says Dr. Kimball Knackstedt, Cardiovascular surgeon, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health, and Co-Medical Director of the ECMO program. “ECMO can be a game changer and a last resort for patients with severe heart and lung conditions. The procedure isn’t for everyone. ECMO requires anticoagulation, so a common complication is bleeding. This makes the therapy complex for trauma patients who often have life threatening heart and lung failure but due to severe bleeding, cannot utilize ECMO. We look forward to providing care for patients who are too unstable for transport and who could die before receiving needed care.” "Renown Health serves more than one million patients in a 100,000-square mile reach across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and eastern California. The Helmsley Charitable Trust grant to the Renown Health Foundation will help give severe respiratory distress and cardiogenic shock patients a greater chance of survival and lessen the need for risky and lengthy transfers out of the community,” said Taralynn Bassham, BSN, Director of Nursing, Critical Care. “This investment in critical life support technology enables the best chance of survival for our patients suffering severe heart and/or lung failure during their most critical moments. This is truly a gift of life for many.”  ECMO programs growing across the U.S.  ECMO technology was developed in the late 1960s by a team led by Robert H. Bartlett, MD. Its main purpose was to serve as a long-term “bypass machine” to support the lungs or heart, which was not feasible at that time with conventional bypass machines. ECMO was first used successfully in 1971 by a patient with severe lung dysfunction after a motorcycle accident. In 1976, it was also used successfully for a baby who had severe lung injury from meconium aspiration, which led to increased use in the pediatric population. In 2009, ECMO was used worldwide in the treatment of severe lung failure during the H1N1 influenza pandemic. More than 100 new ECMO programs were launched in the U.S. in the last 3-5 years. Today, there are 6,120 hospitals in the U.S. and only 300 to 400 with ECMO programs according to the American Medical Association.  “We are launching our ECMO program with the capability to support up to 2 patients simultaneously for the first 1-2 years and aim to eventually perform 40 cases annually,” said Rob Blamire, Enterprise Project Manager for Renown. “Initially, we will focus on adult patients and later expand to include pediatric care. Depending on a patient’s needs, ECMO support varies from several days to weeks. The entire Renown team takes immense pride in introducing this leading-edge life support technology to our community, benefiting area patients and their families.”  What conditions may ECMO support help treat? There are several conditions extracorporeal life support can aid in treating, such as: Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); Burns (smoke inhalation); Cardiogenic shock; Heart attack; Respiratory failure; Myocarditis; Pulmonary embolism;Sepsis; and as a “bridge” to transplant. Supported by Innovative ECMO Concepts  “We appreciate the partnership with the team at Innovative ECMO Concepts, a leading provider of ECMO who specialize in providing support for launching and refining ECMO programs,” said Bill Plauth, MD, MMM, CPE, Chief Medical Officer for Renown Health, and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. "From initial consultation to working bedside, staff training, and ongoing program evaluation, IEC’s comprehensive approach has ensured seamless integration and optimal outcomes for patients. “We are proud to help set a new standard in patient care and safety in northern Nevada through Renown’s ECMO program,” comments Dr. John Mehall, Chief Medical Officer at IEC. “This achievement is a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for patients requiring ECMO therapy.” Thank you to The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust "This life-support procedure would not be possible without the generosity of The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. The Trust's ongoing support for Renown Health and our community helps us further our healing mission," said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer, Renown Health Foundation. If you are a hospital or referring provider and want more information about our ECMO program, please contact the Renown Operations & Transfer Center.  For media interviews, contact news@renown.org or 775-691-7308. About Renown Health  Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center for adults and children, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Groundbreaking Historic Milestone: ECMO Program for Region's Critically Ill Patients Now Available at Renown Health

Only hospital in northern Nevada to receive national recognition for patient safety and quality Renown South Meadows Medical Center in south Reno has earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit watchdog organization that serves as a voice for health care consumers and purchasers, using their collective influence to foster positive change in U.S. health care. Leapfrog is the nation’s premier advocate of transparency in health care—collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data to inform value-based purchasing and improved decision-making. This national distinction recognizes Renown Health’s national accomplishments in ensuring safe, high-quality hospital care for patients. The Leapfrog Group is an independent, nonprofit organization that upholds the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries, and infections as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.  Leapfrog sets their standards using peer reviewed literature and expert opinion, peer comparisons, and alignment with existing national standards or performance targets. “We are very proud to recognize physicians, nurses, clinicians and the entire team at Renown South Meadows Medical Center for achieving exceptional Leapfrog performance in Patient-Centered Care, Critical Care, Nursing and Bedside Care for Patients, Patient Safety, Medication Safety, and Care for Total Joint Replacement and Elective Outpatient Surgery Patients,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Renown Health. “As the only locally governed not-for-profit academic healthcare network in the region, Renown’s success is shared with our patients and community. We celebrate and thank our physicians, nurses, and caregivers for their continued dedication to making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.” “Everyone who works at Renown South Meadows Medical Center should be proud of this ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade,” said Leah Binder, president, and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “It takes complete dedication at every level, and an ironclad commitment to putting patients first. I thank Renown South Meadows Medical Center’s leadership, clinicians, staff, and volunteers for caring so deeply for patients and their safety.” “We are proud of our affiliated physicians and teams who give their best every day, to ensure that every patient’s care and safety is their top priority,” said Sam Weller, MHPA, CEO, Renown South Meadows Medical Center. “We recognize that when you choose a hospital, you could be making a life-or-death decision. Not every hospital is the same. Performance on things like infection rates, surgical errors, or patient injuries varies considerably—and matters greatly. It’s important for consumers to know and consider these things when choosing what physicians, hospital, or Emergency Room to select for their care. We are very excited to be recognized as the only hospital to achieve this designation in northern Nevada, and only one of two in the state (the other being in Las Vegas).”   To see Renown South Meadows Medical Center’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) and via The Leapfrog Group newsletter.   The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public. Renown Regional Medical Center received a B score for Fall & Spring 2023. For more information on the Leapfrog Group and the Spring 2023 scores, please visit: hospitalsafetyscore.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,400 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.  About The Leapfrog Group Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps for patient safety. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey and Leapfrog Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Survey collect and transparently report hospital and ASC performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, Leapfrog's other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents and infections. For more, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram and sign up for our newsletter.

Read More About Renown South Meadows Medical Center Earns Highest "A" Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group

Renown Health is proud to announce the certification of its pulmonary rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). This certification is recognition of Renown Health’s commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with pulmonary problems (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], respiratory symptoms, long COVID-19) recover faster and live healthier. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, COPD impacts 16 million people across the United States, and 1 in 13 adults (7.5%) have “long COVID” symptoms, defined as symptoms lasting three or more months after first contracting the virus, and that they didn’t have prior to their COVID-19 infection. "We are thrilled to receive this certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for our pulmonary rehabilitation program at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. This recognition underscores Renown Health's unwavering dedication to providing the highest standards of care and improving the lives of our patients, no matter what life throws at them,” said Sam Weller, MHPA CEO of Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. “Our commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of our programs, and this certification reinforces our ongoing mission to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of the people of northern Nevada." To earn this accreditation, Renown Health’s pulmonary rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other related professional societies. Each program’s application is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee, and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. "At Renown Health, our pulmonary rehabilitation program is designed with our patients in mind. Our focus includes physical exercise, extending to education, counseling and support for both patients and their families,” said John Lynn, Manager of Respiratory Services at Renown Health. “This AACVPR certification is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication in ensuring that individuals with pulmonary conditions receive the best possible care to enhance their quality of life." In 2018, AACVPR moved to an outcomes-based process with performance measurements that represent more meaningful outcomes. Therefore, AACVPR-certified programs are leaders in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field because they offer the most advanced practices available and have proven track records of high-quality patient care. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. About AACVPR Founded in 1985, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the mission of reducing morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to the core mission is improvement in quality of life for patients and their families.

Read More About Renown Health Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Certified by American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Most Wired Hospitals Use Technology to Deliver Better Patient Care & Experience. The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has released their coveted Digital Health Most Wired Survey results for 2022, recognizing Renown Health with Most Wired status. Among the more than 38,000 organizations surveyed by CHIME, Renown Health ranked above peers in categories like analytics and data management, population health, infrastructure and patient engagement. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. Renown Health earned a Most Wired level 7 (of 10) achievement for use of technology for better patient care and patient experience in both CHIME’s acute and ambulatory surveys. This is Renown’s sixth consecutive year on CHIME’s Most Wired list, and Renown is the only healthcare organization in Nevada recognized with this prestigious award. “New and emerging technologies have transformed healthcare in recent years,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are proud that our physicians, nurses, clinicians, and employees continue to be nationally recognized for their efforts to implement clinical systems and digital health tools to improve care for patients. Improving care through advances in technology and IT systems allows us to realize meaningful outcomes including increasing patient access to healthcare services, improving patient experience, and reducing costs across the entire system.” “To care for all those we serve, Renown’s IT team has open discussions and collaboration with care providers to think creatively and strategically about how to deploy advanced technologies that enable the best clinical outcomes for our patients,” says Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer, Renown Health. “Renown’s proactive approach to technology supports our mission– and is one of the many elements that set our organization apart. We are honored by CHIME’s recognition of our teams and processes to better care for patients.” “When clinicians have instant access to the information that they need to make care decisions; patients benefit,” says Sarah Kramer, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer, Renown Health. “Our technology investments include a single, unified electronic medical record system that spans all major hospital areas including inpatient, outpatient, emergency, intensive care, and surgical units. Having a single digital electronic medical record for our patients makes it possible for an entire team of clinicians across the continuum of care able to review a patient’s chart without needing to request that a physical chart be transported to them, which can take time and resources and sometimes delay care decisions. Our automated medical record system allows the right information to flow to our clinicians when and where they need it, ensuring safe and effective care. Patients also have ready access to all their medical information through the MyChart ® smartphone app, and are able to self-schedule for mammograms and lab appointments, message their primary care providers and refill medications as needed.” “The medical record is not the only area that benefits from an infusion of health IT,” says Melanie Morris, MSN, RN, Director of the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC). “Renown is pleased to serve as a model of coordinated patient care for the nation. Similar to how air traffic controllers manage traffic in and out of airports, the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC) team sees a birds-eye view of what’s happening with patients across our entire integrated delivery system. Having access to real-time information is critical because every action we take is tied to improving the health and well-being of our patients. Time and accuracy are always of the essence, and this Center drastically improves the efficiency of the entire Renown Health system.” Success in digital health increasingly determines the quality of patient care, and the scope of the CHIME Digital Health Most Wired survey reflects the progress of leading healthcare providers as they reinvent healthcare for a new century. The survey and recognition program serves as a comprehensive digital health checkup for healthcare organizations worldwide. “We are proud to honor your team’s exceptional dedication to excellence in digital health,” said Russell P. Branzell President and CEO, CHIME. “Your pioneering performance in the industry inspires other organizations by example. Patients in communities around the world receive better care when you drive change through digital transformation, as you have proven through your success in this rigorous program.” About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada's largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children's hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.  About CHIME The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), chief digital officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With more than 5,000 members in 58 countries plus two U.S. territories and over 190 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME and its three associations provide a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate, exchange best practices, address professional development needs, and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org.

Read More About Renown Health Honored with 2022 Digital Health Most Wired Award

Renown Health & Hometown Health leverage cloud technology to improve access to care and coverage A person’s ability to access health services has a profound effect on every aspect of his or her health, yet almost 1 in 4 Americans do not have a primary care provider (PCP) or a health center where they can receive regular medical services. In addition, because of concerns about COVID-19, the CDC reports that an estimated 41% of U.S. adults have delayed or avoided medical care including urgent or emergency care (12%) and routine care (32%). Avoidance of urgent or emergency care was more prevalent among unpaid caregivers for adults, persons with underlying medical conditions, Black adults, Hispanic adults, young adults, and persons with disabilities. With the goal of improving health by helping people get the healthcare services they need, Renown Health, based in Reno, NV, is leveraging Amazon Web Services (AWS) to enhance access to care. As part of Renown’s continued journey to transform healthcare, the healthcare network is implementing Amazon Connect – AWS’s omnichannel cloud contact center service. The easy to use and quick to deploy solution allows patients to easily access customer service for Renown’s Hometown Health insurance plan, schedule imaging appointments, Epic MyChart patient electronic medical record support and general customer service. Customer service is now available in multiple languages over the phone, and via online live agent chat and email, making it easier and more convenient for people to make appointments for the care they need. Amazon Connect enables Renown Health to scale up to handle unexpected high call volumes and scale back rapidly. The solution also provides call center agents the flexibility they need to work remotely, without compromising the customer experience. “Renown is proud to be one of the first nonprofit healthcare organizations in the country to use Amazon Web Services as part of a comprehensive customer access and outreach program,” says Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO, Renown Health. “We are excited to deploy their innovative contact center technology to assist us in connecting people with Renown medical providers and health services. Our goal is to make connections quick, easy and convenient, so more people will be encouraged to receive the health care services they need.” “Today’s generation of healthcare consumers expect a friction-less experience—from finding a caregiver, to booking an appointment, to receiving treatment. With this new solution, Renown Health will be able to meet their customers’ expectations faster and more efficiently than ever before,” said Phoebe Yang, General Manager, Healthcare at AWS. “AWS looks forward to working with the innovative team at Renown Health as they leverage the power of the cloud to improve the health of communities they serve." “Especially with COVID, but even before, many people don’t get recommended healthcare services, like cancer screenings, because they lack a primary care provider, or access to health care professionals. At Renown Health, we have a commitment to caring for people, with Reliable and Exact Care and the ability to connect — in person and virtually — to help ensure people get the care they need, when and where they need it,” says Thomas Graf, MD, Chief Clinical & Quality Officer at Renown. “Our goal is to reduce barriers and enhance access, so all who need care can receive care,” says Candace Dietrich, director of the Engagement Center at Renown. “AWS technology is helping to improve the customer experience and drive efficiencies. Our collaboration with AWS makes health care more accessible for all, which ultimately is better for the entire community.” “Amazon Connect is a key component of our digital front door virtual care strategy and supports our customer service goals and Reliable & Exact Care at Renown,” said Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Technology Officer at Renown. “Hometown Health is a community-focused organization and with support from AWS, we continue to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve,” says David Hansen, Chief Executive Officer of Nevada’s largest not-for- profit health insurance provider. “We are proud to have a care and coverage network serving half a billion people across 100,000 square miles across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California, and committed to creating healthier communities.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Works With Amazon Web Services To Enhance Customer Experience

Renown recognized nationally for having "Best Website" and COVID-19 microsite for health care information. The internet is now the No. 1 source consumers turn to for information about physicians and hospitals, according to a Professional Research Consultants report. Of the 1,000 consumers interviewed, 72% of consumers use the internet to find healthcare information, up from 60 percent in 2015. The top five reasons people use the internet for healthcare information are to: Research a diagnosis or condition: 87 percent; Research prescribed medications: 82 percent; Check for symptoms: 74 percent; Research quality service of physician: 50 percent; Search for a new physician: 50 percent. In addition, fifty-three percent of consumers spoke to a physician about information or treatments they found on the internet. "With the web becoming an increasingly popular source of medical information for today's patients, we are working with partners to build a better website that is easier to use and providers a better experience," said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. "Sometimes, people need help or answers in the middle of the night. It is important to have information that is available 24 hours a day and in one convenient location." The new renown.org website created by Renown Health's Marketing and Communications Team in partnership with americaneagle.com web design won the highest level national award, Platinum for "Best Overall Internet Site," at the eHealthcare Leadership Awards ceremony on Nov. 4 at the 25th annual Digital Healthcare Internet Conference (HCIC) in Las Vegas. The awards program honors the very best websites and digital communications of healthcare, pharmaceutical/medical equipment firms across the U.S. In addition, Renown Health won a Platinum award and "Best Landing Page/Microsite" for their COVID-19 microsite. "During this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic, expert digital communications skills and efforts have been critical to helping healthcare organizations save lives and protect communities all around the country," said Jane Weber Brubaker, Chair, eHealthcare Leadership Awards and Executive Editor, Plain-English Health Care. "The internet holds the potential promise of improved patient outcomes, especially when one is faced with a critical or life-threatening disease or condition. Appropriate and timely access to health information helps support optimal treatments, optimal care, and improved outcomes for a patient." The eHealthcare Leadership Awards is a leading awards program that recognizes the very best websites, digital communications, and business improvement initiatives of a wide range of healthcare organizations. This year's judging focused on factors that included delivery of strong healthcare content, interactivity, medical care support, and integration with the organization's operations, as well as strength of website design, ease of navigation, and digital accessibility. The Best Overall Internet Site category had to address more than 40 factors from the judges.  Furthermore, Siteimprove, a multi-national software-as-a-service company, provided an accessibility score for entries in the Best Mobile Website and Best Overall Internet categories. Renown Health's accessibility was first weighted and then combined with the judge's scores against the specific criteria for each category to calculate the final score. Winning this award is a true testament to Renown's focus on designing ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant websites. Tony Svanascini, Americaneagle.com's CEO, said, "We are elated to have our partners at Renown Health win a 2021 eHealthcare Leadership Award. Renown's website redesign was truly a team effort and exemplifies the hard work and determination of everyone involved." "Through our website or our "digital front door," we welcomed over 2.2 million visitors over the past year to renown.org. Our greatest joy is to know we are helping others get the help they need," says Suzanne Bharati Hendery, MA, APR, Chief Communications & Customer Officer, Renown Health. "We are always looking for ways to make health care more convenient and delightful. Being able to quickly provide answers to questions, being able to quickly connect people to a medical provider or service, and allowing people to get care from their couch, in a way that is easy and delightful, is our goal." Renown Health was the only health care system in Nevada to be honored, ranking alongside other national health leaders including UCLA Health, Stanford, Geisinger, Oschner, Providence and Mount Sinai. "Our employees are very proud of the work they do for our community. Our team is proud to help tell this story through our website. To be recognized at a national scale is always gratifying and motivates us to continue to create reliable online portals to serve our customers," says Cristal Herrera Woodley, MBA, Director of Marketing and Communications. The 2021 eHealthcare Leadership Awards recognized winners in 22 different categories with more than 250 organizations receiving recognition for their outstanding work. Winners of Platinum, Gold, Silver and Distinction awards represent 18 industry classifications, from hospitals and health systems to pharmaceutical firms and medical device companies.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving norhtern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world's largest community-based genetic population health study, the Health Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About AmericanEagle.com Americaneagle.com is a full-service, global digital agency based in Des Plaines, Illinois that provides best-in-class web design, development, hosting, post-launch support, and digital marketing services. Currently, Americaneagle.com employs 600+ professionals in offices around the world including Chicago, Cleveland, Dubai, Dallas, London, Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, Washington DC, Switzerland, and Bulgaria. Some of their 2,000+ clients include Dairy Queen, FASTSIGNS, Soletrader, WeatherTech and the American Management Association. For additional information, visit www.americaneagle.com.

Read More About Improving Online Access and Information About Physicians and Hospital Services for Nevadans

Renown recognized for using advanced technology to improve health and care in the community The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) announced that Renown Health has earned the 2021 CHIME Digital Health Most Wired recognition as a certified Acute Level – 7 and Ambulatory Level - 7. The CHIME Digital Health Most Wired program conducts an annual survey to assess how effectively healthcare organizations apply technology to improve health and care in their communities.  Renown Health was the only health care system in Nevada to make this year’s list, ranking alongside other national health leaders including UCLA Health, Scripps, Sharp, Stanford, Geisinger, Johns Hopkins, Yale New Haven and Intermountain Health.  “We are proud of our national reputation as an innovator in implementing new technology and systems of care to improve the health of our patients and the community,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President & CEO. “With our incredible IT team and partners, we are transforming care and demonstrating value in a way that appeals to patients and helps clinicians improve outcomes and reduce costs. Through Renown’s technology, thousands of people a day now choose the physician that’s best for them at renown.org; have an online video visit with their doctor from their laptop; self-schedule a mammogram or refill medications through the MyChart app; book ahead for an Urgent Care visit, and may receive hospital-level clinical monitoring in the comfort of their own homes through the Renown Transfer and Operations Center.” “Digital transformation in healthcare has accelerated to an unprecedented level since 2020, and the next few years will bring a wave of innovation that empowers healthcare consumers and will astound the industry,” said CHIME President and CEO Russell P. Branzell. “The Digital Health Most Wired program recognizes the outstanding digital leaders who have paved the way for this imminent revolution in healthcare. Renown’s trailblazing commitment to rapid transformation has set an example for the entire industry in how to pursue a leadership vision with determination, brilliant planning and courage to overcome all challenges.”  Speaking on the Wall St. Journal podcast, The Journal on Friday, Dr. Slonim described how Renown Health is one of the first institutions in the nation to provide hospital-at-home technology. Through the new Renown Transfer and Operations Center, physicians, nurses and care coordinators are able to monitor upwards of 1,000 hospitalized and lower acuity patients in their homes, making care more affordable and convenient.  “This state-of-the-art facility helps ensure seamless care for patients and providers across northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California,” said Sy Johnson, Chief of Staff at Renown. “Through this highly coordinated care logistics system, Renown is now able to deliver the right care, at the right time and place across the integrated delivery system. This system is enabling providers to provide care closer to home, in lower-cost ambulatory, outpatient surgical and skilled nursing settings- instead of the hospital, and to deliver a sizeable portion of care to patients- where they want to be- in their homes.” Bernard, a remote-home monitoring patient, provides a Thank You and Congratulations to the Renown team in a video here.  “Our teams are excited to partner with clinicians to adopt technologies that improve the delivery of care, across the entire Renown Health enterprise,” said Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer. “We have optimized clinical workflows so that our clinicians receive timely alerts and can quickly respond to patient needs. As a team, we are honored to receive this prestigious award for technology that enables us to provide safer, more effective and more efficient care for patients and our community.” In addition, the Renown website is now one of the most advanced in the country, with over 2.2 million visitors over the past year.  Renown also achieved the highest-ever rating for its use of the Epic electronic medical record system – seven stars.  A total of 36,674 organizations were represented in the 2021 Digital Health Most Wired program. The surveys assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading.     About CHIME The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), chief digital officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With nearly 3,400 members in 55 countries and over 150 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME provides a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate, exchange best practices, address professional development needs and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Tops 2021 Most Wired List for Digital Innovation, Technology and a Better Patient Experience

Stage 2 Air Quality Index and alarming research studies from DRI, Renown Health and the Washoe County Health District leads to public health advisory- seek care if needed For people who suffer from asthma, wildfire smoke is more hazardous than other types of air pollution, according to a study from the Desert Research Institute (DRI), the Renown Institute for Health Innovation (Renown IHI) and the Washoe County Health District (WCHD). The study published in the journal Environmental Health examined associations between airborne particulate matter (PM) from sources such as wildfire, transportation and industry, and medical visits for asthma at Renown Health’s emergency departments and urgent care centers in Reno, Nev. during the six-year period from 2013-2018. In places like Reno, where wildfire events occur regularly during parts of the year and are expected to become more frequent in the future, an accurate understanding of the impacts of wildfire smoke on population health is critical. We have an exceptional process in place through our urgent care sites, Renown Medical Group offices and hospital emergency departments to screen, diagnose and treat members of our community who come to us for care related to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other upper respiratory diseases that may be exacerbated by wildfire smoke. At the same time, we continue to develop and refine, in real-time, the data that supports our predictive analytic models. We are using every tool and resource-including scientific data and clinical reporting, to ensure that we are meeting both the health and healthcare needs of the people we serve. In the study, researchers found that air quality in the Reno area was affected by wildfire smoke on a total of 188 days during the study period. A total of 18,836 asthma-related emergency room and urgent care visits occurred over the same five-year period of time, indicating that the influences of wildfire smoke and other types of air pollution on this medical condition are important to understand. The Washoe County Health District – Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) has issued a Stage 2 Air Pollution Warning due to smoke from area wildfires. Air quality in the Reno-Sparks area is now “Very Unhealthy” with an Air Quality Index of 247. The Stage 2 warning means that all residents should stay indoors and reduce activity levels due to the susceptibility of increased health risks. To see current air quality in Reno-Sparks, click here. Brion Hill, MD who practices at the Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location warns, “This is an important health advisory, exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain. Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, use your inhalers as directed and contact your health care provider,” says Dr. Hill. “If you do not have a health care provider, we have 11 conveniently located Renown Urgent Care offices with providers ready to see you 7 days a week." Dr. Joseph Grzymski, a research professor at Desert Research Institute, a corresponding author on the study and Chief Scientific Officer, Renown Health, says, “This air is very bad for your health. Given today’s Air Quality Index in Reno, being outside and breathing this air for a day equals about smoking half a package of cigarettes.” Additional Information: The full text of the article “Particulate matter and emergency visits for asthma: a time-series study of their association in the presence and absence of wildfire smoke in Reno, Nevada, 2013–2018,” is available from Environmental Health: https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-020-00646-2 To learn more about the Renown Institute for Health Innovation, please visit: https://www.dri.edu/renown-ihi/ Renown Urgent Care provides treatment for a wide range of minor injuries, illnesses and medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, that require same-day medical attention and avoid the long wait times and high prices of the emergency room at 13 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. The Washoe County Health District offers online health information on its Be Smoke Smart website, including fire information, daily air quality information, fire and smoke maps and how to protect yourself.     About the Desert Research Institute The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied interdisciplinary research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge, supported Nevada’s diversifying economy, provided science-based educational opportunities, and informed policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. For more information, visit www.dri.edu. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Wildfire Smoke More Dangerous Than Other Air Pollution for People With Asthma

Renown Urgent Care team prepares you to stay safe this season and is available seven days a week at 11 locations across northern Nevada Millions of people across the West live in areas where air pollution can cause serious health problems. Local air quality can affect our daily lives. Like the weather, it can change from day to day. The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Plumas County, to notify the public of the possibility of poor air quality conditions resulting from the Beckwourth Complex Fire in addition to other wildfires in northern California. In addition, there is the potential for wind shifts to carry smoke to other parts of Plumas County from the Beckwourth and several other regional wildfires.  Air quality is expected to vary greatly depending on fire behavior and weather conditions, with smoke settling in low areas at night and in the early mornings as long as these fires are active. The advisory mentions, “Exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain, especially among sensitive individuals such as the elderly, children, people with asthma, people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women and anyone who is exercising or working hard outdoors.” Kouros Farro, MD, a physician with Renown Urgent Care advises that there are people who are more likely to be affected when fine particle pollution reaches an unhealthy level. People who have asthma or other breathing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People who have heart disease or high blood pressure. Children and older adults. People of all ages who are doing extended or heavy, physical activity like playing sports or working outdoors. “Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, use your inhalers as directed and contact your health care provider,” says Dr. Farro, who is board certified in family medicine and practices at Renown Urgent Care at 975 Ryland St in Reno. “If you do not have a health care provider, know we have a Renown Urgent Care office on almost every corner, with providers ready to see you.” Dr. Farro advises the following: Take it easy and listen to your body. Limit, change, or postpone your physical activity level. If possible, stay away from local sources of air pollution like busy roads and wood fires. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions like COPD make sure you have your relief/rescue inhaler with you. People with asthma should review and follow guidance in their written asthma action plan. Make an appointment to see your health provider to be sure you have an asthma action plan. “Even just one hour of smoke exposure can affect our lungs and hearts, and these consequences can reach people far beyond the direct area endangered by the fire. Children, older adults, pregnant women, people with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease, communities of color, economically disadvantaged communities, and people with preexisting chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and obesity are all especially vulnerable to the air pollution that wildfires cause," says Dr. David Lemak, Division Chief of Urgent Care at Renown. Renown Urgent Care provides treatment for a wide range of minor injuries, illnesses and medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, that require same-day medical attention and avoid the long wait times and high prices of the emergency room at 11 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. You can get the latest fire and smoke information at the Washoe County Health District’s Be Smoke Smart webpage.  It includes information about air pollution levels and how to protect yourself from the smoke. An on-line subscription page allows you to sign up for EnviroFlash, notifying you about air quality.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Where There is Smoke; There May Be More Headaches, Nausea and Coughing

Chuck Podesta, national IT leader to use technology to improve the health and well-being of Nevadans. Renown Health is pleased to announce Charles (Chuck) Podesta has been named Chief Information Officer. Podesta is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience leading some of the nation’s top healthcare IT teams. He has literally worked from coast to coast and is excited to bring his talents to Nevada. “We are pleased to bring an experienced and talented leader like Chuck Podesta to lead our information and technology areas at Renown,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown. “As Chief Information Officer, he will have the opportunity to foster a culture of innovation and excellence in information technology which serves hundreds of thousands of people across the state and the nation. Chuck will use the power of technology to bring a new level of convenience to patients and providers and will use his talents and team to improve the health and well-being of Nevadans.” Chuck most recently served as Interim Chief Information Officer for UCONN Health’s John Dempsey Medical Center, School of Medicine and Clinical Research IT. Prior to that, Chuck served as CIO for UCI Health/UC Irvine School of Medicine and the University of California Health System. He also served as CIO for University of Vermont Health Network/Fletcher Allen Health; Steward Health/Caritas Christi Healthcare; Berkshire Health; Baystate Health and UMASS Medical Center, all in the New England area. Podesta specializes in creating, resourcing and implementing strategic technology plans; maximizing the power of the Epic electronic medical record; streamlining governance and priorities; aligning IT and medical informatics needs across affiliated entities including a medical school environment, Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), Clinically Integrated Networks (CINs) and medical practices; partners to implement best of breed customer-driven digital tools; leads participation in state-wide health exchanges (HIE) and coaches and mentors IT teams.   “Chuck’s experience and strengths in a variety of diverse and complex environments make him the perfect leader for us at this important time in our history,” explains Josiah (Sy) Johnson, Chief of Staff for Renown. Chuck will assure we are leading with innovative and contemporary approaches and integrating technology and expertise in our ongoing pursuit of excellence in improving health and healthcare in Nevada. “I am honored and excited to join the Renown Health family and the northern Nevada community,” says Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer. “I am impressed with the innovation and transformation at Renown; which has earned it a reputation as one of the nation’s leading health systems. I look forward to joining Renown Health at this exciting time in its history. I am excited to bring my skills and experience to create a positive experience when people use our technology. I am looking forward to leading the organization on this important journey.” Podesta is a graduate of the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and an active member of CHIME, HIMSS and the Society for Information Management (SIM). Podesta will begin at Renown on July 12.   About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, local not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,200 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Welcomes New Chief Information Technology Officer

Always listening to the voice of the patient, Renown Health is pleased to welcome any two patient supporters to visit their loved ones during their Renown medical visit, surgery, birthing or hospital stay. Renown continues to have extra safety measures in place to protect the health of patients, visitors and healthcare employees, and as the situation changes with COVID-19, these guidelines are subject to change. Under this updated visitor policy, patients no longer need to identify their supporters ahead of their arrival. Patients may receive more than two visitors per day; however, to help ensure adequate physical distancing, only two guests are asked to visit at a time. All people entering Renown sites must continue bringing and wearing a face mask for their entire visit, including inside patient rooms. Renown’s visitor policy updates were inspired by family members, who requested that the policy be expanded to encourage two family members per day to be able to visit a loved one who was hospitalized at Renown. The request was approved by Dr. Debra Adornetto-Garcia, Chief Nursing Officer and Dr. Paul Sierzenski, Chief Medical Officer, both of Acute Services. With a high percentage of Renown hospital staff now vaccinated against COVID-19, declining hospitalizations of patients with COVID-19, and understanding that the best communication is in-person, as of April 28, 2021, Renown hospitals and medical practices now allow two visitors, instead of one, for all patients and have put extra safety measures in place to protect patients, visitors and healthcare employees. “We are pleased to expand our visitor policy and welcome two healthy adult patient supporters to accompany every patient to their Renown medical visit or hospital stay,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown. “We are always looking to our patients’ lived experiences to help us address the health needs of our community. Just a few months ago, we were reminded by Darlene Randolph that the best care is ‘person-centered care’, which inspired us to be one of the first healthcare organizations in the nation to expand our visitor policy to all patients, including those with COVID-19. Today, we thank our patients’ family members for voicing the importance of a larger, connected support system to help foster the best healing environment for all patients.” “At Renown, the definition of ‘family’ is defined by the patient,” said Debra Adornetto-Garcia, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, AOCN, Chief Nursing Officer, Acute Services. “Our patients may have anyone they choose as their patient supporters, and these individuals serve as an invaluable extension of our care teams. Patient supporters are asked to partner with the patient’s healthcare team to assist in communicating to other family members and friends, participating in training and education activities and assisting the patient with complying with care and medication instructions.” “Visiting the hospital can be an anxious experience,” said Paul Sierzenski, MD, MSHQS, CPE, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Acute Services. “It’s incredible how the company of loved ones can reduce anxiety and promote healing. What we can do together with families to support patient care and excellent outcomes is greater than what any of us can do alone. We are glad to welcome patient supporters to our hospitals to help our patients feel more at ease, so they can focus on their recovery, health and healing.” Two patient supporters per patient are now able to access Renown campuses as noted: Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For Intensive Care Units (ICU): 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visitors must be at least 12 years of age or older. Renown Children’s Hospital: Open access. For the Pediatric unit and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): Visitors must be at least 12 years of age or older. For the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): Visitors must be at least 18 years of age or older. Renown Rehabilitation Hospital: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. One designated patient supporter is allowed to visit the patient inside their room throughout the duration of their stay. Other loved ones may visit from an exterior window, outside the patient's room. Our care team is also pleased to facilitate bedside virtual visits. In addition to in-person visits, there are many ways to brighten the day of a patient at Renown Hospitals. You can send a personalized message that will be hand-delivered to your loved one, call 775-982-4100 to speak with a patient, or our care team is pleased to facilitate virtual visits via computer or tablet from the bedside. Renown Health reserves the right to limit visitors in the best interests of patients, families, visitors or staff.   About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Renown Health Further Expands Visitor Policy to Two Loved Ones