RENOWN NEWSROOM

The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health are pleased to announce the accreditation of a new three-year Pediatrics Residency Program with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The inaugural cohort of pediatric residents will start next summer, in July of 2023. The new residency will help shape future pediatric practices – and fill a state and nation-wide physician specialist shortage. Over a three-year period, four newly trained physicians will be selected each year for a total complement of twelve residents. “Creating a Pediatric Residency Program for our community has been a dream more than five years in the making,” says Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, former Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the UNR Med and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Currently, UNR Med students interested in becoming pediatricians must leave the area to complete their residency training elsewhere. The William N. Pennington Foundation has paved the way for this program, which will create a pipeline of much-needed pediatricians for our state, especially in under-served and rural areas – to serve vulnerable children and families of Nevada with high-quality, affordable care.” The vision to grow pediatric services into a full-fledged children’s hospital with a robust academic department of pediatrics in Reno began in 2014 when Renown Health and UNR Med agreed to recruit an academic pediatrician who would serve both as Chair of Pediatrics at UNR Med and as Pediatrician-in-Chief of Renown Children’s Hospital. The Nell J. Redfield Foundation donated $1.5M towards this initiative and expressed the hope to see a pediatric residency program established for the community. After the recruitment of Dr. Max Coppes for this role in 2016, The William N. Pennington Foundation recognized the need for enhanced care and expertise for pediatrics and donated $7.5 million to Renown Children’s Hospital to establish the William N. Pennington Fund for Advanced Pediatric Care. Through these gifts, 100,000 area children now have access to more than 15 specialized pediatricians, including those specializing in oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology, emergency medicine, urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30%of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to donor support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Melissa Piasecki, MD, Acting Dean of UNR Med and Chief Academic Officer for Renown, explains, “Residencies are specialty training programs for doctors after they graduate from medical school. Before becoming licensed physicians, medical school graduates train for three or more years learning from more experienced attending physicians.” She adds, “This new residency is a tremendous step forward for the UNR Med and Renown Health affiliation – and for our entire community. This pediatric residency program advances a mutual commitment to recruit and retain skilled and compassionate physicians and healthcare professionals, improve access to healthcare and invest in clinical research that improves the health of this generation and the next. Within the UNR Med andRenown affiliation, we created an integrated Graduate Medical Education Consortium Council (GME-CC) to provide strategic oversight and growth of residency programs within the affiliation. In this agreement, UNR Med is the sponsoring institution for accreditation and Renown Health and the VA are the clinical training partners. The process moved so smoothly; within six months of the affiliation, the GME-CC voted to support a new pediatric residency. This is a great addition to our existing residencies at UNR Med, which include family medicine, internal medicine, psychiatry and behavioral sciences, and provides our students with a great training opportunity in pediatrics.” Nevada faces a severe physician workforce shortage, ranking 45th in the nation for active physicians per 100,000 people. The physician workforce shortage is especially critical for pediatricians, with Nevada ranking 47th in the country with fewer than 10 pediatricians for every 100,000 people. The northern Nevada community is growing rapidly and Washoe County faces additional pediatrician shortages as local physicians approach retirement. “This new residency is an opportunity to train the next generation of pediatricians who will want to continue providing care in northern Nevada,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Interim UNR Med Chair of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Our community continues to grow. This new pediatric residency-training program will allow Nevada to have a supply of outstanding, compassionate physicians, now and into the future. With our exceptional team of existing pediatricians, pediatric specialists, medical teams and support staff, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and rewarding educational experience for our trainees.” “It truly is a dream come true. We are indebted to the comprehensive team that has built the structure, recruited faculty to support the training program and successfully recruited a Program Director, Dr. Caroline Barangan, and Associate Program Director, Dr. Shilpi Garg, a 2012 UNR Med alumna,” says Lawrence Duncan, MS, VP and Administrator for Renown Women & Children’s Hospital. “Between now and summer 2023, we will add the foundational pieces needed to ensure the success of the program including recruiting a Chief Resident, ongoing faculty development and ensuring that all components are in place for recruiting, teaching, supervising and mentoring residents.” “One of the main obstacles for increasing the number of physicians to care for our growing community is the relative lack of pediatric residency programs in the state and the absence of a program in northern Nevada. Residency programs in pediatrics recruit and train students completing medical school and seeking residency training to become a pediatrician,” says Caroline Barangan, MD, Pediatric Residency Program Director, Renown Health and UNR Med. “Workforce research consistently shows that students who complete a residency tend to stay and practice in the communities where they completed their residency training program. For those who complete medical school and residency in the same place, over 75% stay to practice in that community.” “In August, recognizing the need to grow the state’s physician workforce in high-needs specialties, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak and the Office of Science, Innovation and Technology announced the funding of five graduate medical education residency and fellowship programs, including $870,433 for the UNR Med Pediatrics Residency Program,” said Christine Bosse, Chief Government Affairs Officer for Renown Health. “Nevada produces more undergraduate medical students than it has available residencies and fellowships. Additionally, Nevada lacks fellowships in some specialties that are of interest to students. As a result, many highly educated students must leave the state for further training at a time when they are beginning real-world application of their advanced education. We appreciate that the GME Grant funding will assist the state and our community, in attracting, educating and retaining more doctors for Nevada.” “This new community-based program will provide residents with a strong foundation in primary care pediatrics as well as broad, in-depth exposure to all pediatric subspecialties. This will create graduates equally well prepared for careers in general pediatric practice, service to the state’s rural and underserved communities or in academics," adds David Carlson, MD, UNR Med Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education, Designated Institutional Officer. “Through the program, pediatric residents will spend their 36-month residency focused on children’s care and complete a primary care-focused clinical training program with rotations that allow them to learn while caring for children in both inpatient and outpatient settings with supervising pediatricians and pediatric specialists at Renown Children’s Hospital.” “The Pediatrics Residency Program is a wonderful opportunity to continue a tradition of academic excellence alongside Renown Health’s record of clinical excellence,” said Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno. “This is one more way our affiliation, signed in 2021 to establish the first fully integrated health system in Nevada, is helping to expand clinical training and clinical research programs as well as improve access to clinical care for all Nevadans.” “We are proud to partner with UNR Med to bring this new residency program to our community,” says Thomas Graf, MD, interim Chief Executive Officer, Renown Health, “Attracting and retaining talent is a key component of our drive for excellence as a care leader and our mutual goal of improving the health of our community. We are fortunate to have the strong infrastructure necessary to create this program and a team of highly-skilled physicians who can train the next generation of pediatricians.” For the 2023 residency application cycle, UNR Med will participate in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and encourages applicants to visit the UNR Med GME website for more information.  About UNR Med The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), Nevada’s first public medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Since 1969, UNR Med has trained more than 3,900 students, residents and fellows. UNR Med continues to improve the health and well-being of all Nevadans and their communities through excellence in student education, postgraduate training and clinical care, research with local, national and global impact and a culture of diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit med.unr.edu. 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®.

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The new space is part of Renown’s larger facilities enhancement project spanning all campuses. Click here to view flythrough renderings of the new building. It is with great excitement that Renown Health and NexCore Group announce the groundbreaking of a state-of-the-art Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. This three-story building will be adjacent to the existing medical center and is part of Renown’s larger facilities enhancement project.  “Renown Health is proud to celebrate 160 years of caring for the people of northern Nevada, and it is integral that we honor our legacy while looking toward the future and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our growing community,” said Thomas Graf, MD, FAAFP, Chief Executive Officer of Renown Health. “This new 121,000 gross square foot Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows is one of our many expansion projects currently underway to make certain our community has the health resources it needs for generations to come.” The Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows is a collaboration between Renown Health and NexCore Group, a national healthcare real estate investment and development company. Features of the Specialty Care Center Include: Level 1 will feature kitchen/dining facilities; expanded laboratory and diagnostic services, including Interventional Radiology; an updated pre-admit function; and a new Cardiac Catheterization Lab. Level 2 will feature an Ambulatory Surgery Center and an expanded sterile processing department. Level 3 will include clinical space. "This expansion, both at Renown South Meadows and Renown Regional on Mill Street, is enhancing our clinical care model to ensure our patients, families, and staff have an innovative, convenient, safe, and compassionate place to both work and receive care,” said Susan Lee, DO, MBA, Chief Operating Officer for Renown South Meadows Medical Center. “These new spaces – designed for and by patients, visitors, and team members – will highlight state-of-the-art technology while enhancing patient safety and an improved hospital experience.” The planning and design teams behind Renown's facilities expansion projects include several locally owned businesses and veteran and female-owned businesses, many of whom were on site for the groundbreaking event. With a community focus, Renown is proud that the build-out of the Specialty Care Center will employ more than 20 local contractors and upwards of 400 craftspeople. “Renown Health’s vision to offer health care that is affordable, accessible, and of the highest quality inspires us as this project’s strategic developer. We are honored that Renown has engaged our services to deliver more value-based care to northern Nevada,” said Todd Varney, Chief Development Officer and Managing Partner of NexCore Group. “At NexCore, we recognize that the future of healthcare demands flexibility and innovation, which is exactly what Renown is doing with the Specialty Care Center.” More than 100 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 20, which emphasizes the excitement that is building across our communities for Renown’s new Specialty Care Center. Event guests included Renown Health leaders; Renown Health Foundation Board Members; residents of the surrounding communities in South Reno; representatives from Renown’s development partner, NexCore Group; construction partners; design and engineering partners; and many frontline healthcare workers who call South Meadows home every day. Custom-designed, class A medical office space is still available in the Specialty Care Center. Interested healthcare providers are encouraged to contact Stacey Hall at stacey.hall@nexcoregroup.com or 949-416-4566. To learn more about the expansion projects underway at Renown, please visit renown.org/ExpandingCare.     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. About NexCore Group LLC NexCore Group is a national healthcare real estate investment and development company that focuses on acquiring, developing, owning, and managing healthcare facilities including medical office buildings, wellness facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, single and multi-specialty physician buildings, life sciences facilities, seniors housing communities and transitional rehabilitation centers. NexCore partners with top healthcare systems, hospitals, physician groups, and assisted living, memory care and post-acute care operators, and reputable institutional and high net worth investors to develop, acquire and own high quality assets that serve their communities through significant job creation and the provision of quality healthcare services. NexCore is unique in the healthcare development field, specifically with a regard to a singular focus on project strategy and planning. Since 2004, the NexCore team has completed $4.7 billion in healthcare real estate transactions throughout 29 states, developed and acquired over 14.3 million square feet of healthcare properties across the country and currently manages over $2.9 billion of healthcare facilities spanning 6.8 million square feet. The company has been recognized repeatedly as one of the Top Healthcare Real Estate Developers in the U.S. by Modern Healthcare and HREI. NexCore is headquartered in Denver, with regional offices in Bethesda, Md.; Charlotte N.C.; Dallas; Detroit; Houston; Indianapolis; Los Angeles; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix; and Seattle. For more information, please visit NexCoreGroup.com.

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Group improves diagnosis, medical management and quality of life for patients. If you are preparing for a surgical procedure, you have probably given a lot of thought to the education, training and experience of the surgeon performing the procedure. But you may not have thought much about the anesthesiologist or the importance of his or her expertise in your procedure — before, during, and after — to keep you safe and comfortable. “As the region’s only not-for-profit integrated healthcare network and Trauma Center, we are trusted and chosen by patients as the #1 provider of inpatient care, including surgeries, for northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. To continue to serve the needs of hundreds of surgeons and thousands of patients with safe, high quality and effective anesthesia coverage, we now employ sixty anesthesiologists through our Department of Surgery through Renown Medical Group Anesthesiology, a new local practice providing services to patients in northern Nevada,” said Sy Johnson, MBA, President of Renown Health. Patients served include those at Renown Regional Medical Center, the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, and #1 Hospital in the State of Nevada in U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings for 2021. Physician anesthesiologists will also provide services to patients at Renown Children’s Hospital, the only children’s hospital in the region; Renown South Meadows Medical Center, named #1 Best Hospital for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report; and to patients at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, northern Nevada’s only Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)- accredited hospital, specializing in the treatment of brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. The nine anesthesiologists who recently joined Renown Health include: Houry Kahwajian-Mock, MD, starting 5/1/2022  Brian Turchioe, MD, starting 6/1/2022  Kristina Coger, MD, starting 6/13/2022 Shannon Martin, MD, starting 7/1/2022  Joshua Moody, DO, starting 7/1/2022  Vu Luu, MD, 7/1/2022 Robert Childs, MD, 8/1/2022 Jörg Dünckelmeyer, MD, starting 8/22/2022  Jonathan Miller, MD, starting 10/31/2022 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 regions 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®.

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Protect yourself by obtaining a vaccination against COVID-19 and the Delta strain if you are 12 years or older; seek urgent care if needed The world, the country and our area continue to experience an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations with the highly contagious Delta SARS-CoV-2 virus strain. The Renown Health team continues to safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illnesses, including those at risk for COVID-19. Renown continues to use current local and national data, analytics, and public data sets for predictive modeling in service to our community. Renown Health ensures constant readiness by working closely with the Washoe County Health District, the Governor’s office, and is informed by updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When there is heightened concern around an illness, we implement enhanced infection prevention strategies to ensure we are ready with the appropriate supplies and alternate plans should the need arise. Renown Health providers are educated and prepared to quickly and safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illness, including COVID-19. Vaccination is the best protection against Delta. “The most important action you can take to protect yourself from the Delta strain and the COVID-19 virus is to get fully vaccinated,” says Brion Hill, MD who practices at the Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location. “The COVID 19 virus and Delta strain is preventable and controllable through safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, which are free and now widely available in our area. The CDC recommends all people 12 years and older be vaccinated against COVID-19. Recent data show that nearly all COVID-19 deaths are now occurring among unvaccinated individuals.” A list of providers in our area offering vaccines is available at vaccines.gov.” Protecting Yourself, Friends and Family Dr. Hill adds, “You can protect yourself the same way you would protect against other viruses with a few common-sense practices.” Wear a cloth mask or medical procedure mask when in a public setting. For situations when you are in close contact with people who do not live with you, you may want to consider a mask option that provides a higher level of protection (improved fit and/or improved filtration). Wash your hands thoroughly and often. Make sure you are cleaning between your fingers and under your nails. Use alcohol-based sanitizers when soap and water are not available. Use disposable tissues when coughing and sneezing; dispose of carefully and promptly. If tissues are not available, direct your cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm/sleeve. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms. Avoid shaking hands, especially with those who appear to be ill. Disinfect shared surfaces. Practice social distancing, 6 feet or more. Stay home when you are sick. If you have fever, cough, gastrointestinal, or respiratory symptoms please call your medical provider and explain your symptoms before coming in to their offices. If you do not have a health care provider, and have medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, visit a Renown Urgent Care physician or healthcare provider. Virtual Urgent Care is available for people for COVID-19 symptoms and Virtual Urgent Care visits are available through MyChart. MyChart is a free, secure online patient portal that allows you to access your Renown Health medical record and manage your health care information. There are 11 conveniently located Renown Urgent Care offices with providers ready to see you 7 days a week. You have the option to book ahead and schedule an appointment at 11 locations near you. How to Get Accurate and Reliable Information: We continue to advise our community regarding the importance of accurate sources of information, and to provide regular updates. For up-to-date information on Renown’s approach to keeping our community safe, visit our website at renown.org.     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, the region’s only children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improving the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

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New contract provides members with continued in-network access to all Renown hospitals and physicians   UnitedHealthCare and Renown Health today announced they have reached an agreement on a new contract. The agreement protects affordability and value-based care, and provides UnitedHealthCare members with continued in-network access to all Renown hospitals and physicians.   Renown Health President and CEO, Anthony Slonim, M.D., DrPH, FACHE, stated, “We appreciate the collaborative approach of both teams to reach resolution. As Nevada’s most preferred health system and Reno’s only not-for-profit health care organization, our mission is to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the community. As doctors, nurses and caregivers, we want to ensure the greatest access, experience and highest quality care for every member of our community, including those insured by UnitedHealthCare. Today’s agreement marks another important milestone in achieving the goals of our strategic plan and a healthier Nevada.” United contracts for all Renown Health services had terminated on June 1. The Health Plan of Nevada (HPN) contract remains to be negotiated and finalized. Consumers with questions can contact United by using the toll-free number on the back of their current United identification card.     ###     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, the region’s only children’s hospital, 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 UnitedHealthcare & Renown Health Announce New Contract Agreement

As the need for Medical Assistants grows, graduating Hug High Health Science Academy senior, Ana Hernandez Rodriguez, starts NHSE sponsored Renown Medical Assistant apprenticeship at TMCC According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Medical Assistants is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The growth of the aging baby-boom population continues to increase demand for preventive medical services here in Nevada and across the country. An increasing number of group medical practices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities also need medical assistants to perform administrative and clinical duties. Medical assistants work mostly in primary care, a steadily growing sector of healthcare. With an eye towards this future, Renown Health proudly accepted its first student, Ana Hernandez Rodriguez, a graduating senior from Procter R. Hug High School’s Health Science Academy CTE program in Washoe County, into its newly created Medical Assistant apprenticeship program. Ana will begin the program as a full-time employee with benefits and start her apprenticeship coursework at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC). Sponsored by the Nevada System for Higher Education (NSHE), Renown’s Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program was approved by the Nevada State Apprenticeship Council, which was overseen by the Governor’s Office of Workforce Innovation (OWINN), in February. The Renown Medical Assistant Apprenticeship is a one-year competency-based program that includes up to 2,000 hours of On-the-Job training and 193 hours of Related Technical Instruction offered through TMCC. All classroom, clinic and work time is paid. Apprentices work under the supervision of a Medical Assistant, Registered Nurse, or medical provider to assist in responsibilities including escorting the patient from the waiting room to the examination room, taking vital signs, stocking supplies, placing and receiving phone calls including appropriate documentation in the Electronic Medical Record, preparing lab specimens for processing, completing the necessary referral forms, obtaining authorizations and keeping records for referrals. Upon completion of the program, apprentices complete the final exam to become a National Certified Medical Assistant. “NSHE is proud to serve as the apprenticeship program sponsor and create more apprenticeship opportunities like this program throughout Nevada,” said Cheryl Olson, NSHE Apprenticeship Navigator and Director of the Nevada Alliance for Youth Apprenticeship. “We welcome Ana as she joins our extraordinary team of healthcare professionals at Renown,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown. “We are always looking to support and invest in the next generation of health professionals to address the health needs of our community. Medical Assistants serve an essential role in physician offices, hospitals and other healthcare facilities performing important administrative and clinical responsibilities and assisting in medical care including greeting patients, recording medical histories and vital signs and helping to coordinate care.” According to the US Department of Labor “Projections Central” the demand for Medical Assistants in Nevada will increase by over 25% by 2028, with over 260 job openings available per year. On the importance of apprenticeship programs like Renown’s Medical Assistant program, NSHE Chancellor Melody Rose said, “The Nevada System of Higher Education is committed to promoting more attainable, affordable, and innovative pathways toward successful careers in fields like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and information technology through apprenticeships. Programs such as the Renown Medical Assistant apprenticeship are changing how we think about accessing higher education and offering true ‘Learn and Earn’ pathways.” Ana’s acceptance into the Medical Assistant apprenticeship program is a proud moment for her soon-to-be alma mater. “Ana has earned this opportunity through hard work and dedication to her studies,” said Melissa Osterhage, who teaches health sciences at Procter Hug High School. “She is a compassionate, caring, and intelligent young woman, and I look forward to seeing everything she will accomplish as she moves forward in a career in the medical field. I couldn’t be more proud of her, and I am grateful she has been awarded this apprenticeship.” Ana graduates from Hug High on June 22 and starts her Medical Assistant apprenticeship program just a few days later on June 29, and is excited for her future. "Being accepted to this opportunity at Renown has been amazing and wonderful. When they told me I was accepted, I was so excited that I cried because I felt so blessed. This is going to help my future in so many ways. It is going to give me the opportunity to work in the medical field. I will start as a Medical Assistant and my goal is to work toward becoming a registered nurse. I took a leap of hope and made it. So, I tell others- believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything in life," she said. Ana is also welcomed to Renown by Michelle Sanchez-Bickley, Chief Human Resources Officer at Renown, who helped coordinate this workforce program. “Healthcare jobs in Nevada represent excellent employment for thousands of Nevadans poised to enter the state’s workforce over the next decade. Opportunities are increasing as we encounter growing demand for health care services at Renown, coupled with population growth, an improving economy, and retirees relocating to the Silver State. Ana and our Medical Assistants are so vital to helping our medical providers care for patients and are critical to the excellent care we provide.” For more information on the next Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program, please email kayla.mcmain@renown.org. To apply for a career opportunity at Renown visit our website.     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. About OWINN OWINN helps drive a skilled, diverse, and aligned workforce in the state of Nevada by promoting cooperation and collaboration among all entities focused on workforce development. Its chief objectives are to prepare all K-12 students for college and career success, increase the number of Nevadans with postsecondary degrees and credentials, and boost employment outcomes in training and credentialing programs. About NSHE The Nevada System of Higher Education, comprised of two doctoral-granting research universities, a state college, four comprehensive community colleges, and one environmental research institute, serves the educational and job training needs of Nevada. NSHE provides educational opportunities to more than 100,000 students and is governed by the Nevada Board of Regents. The System includes the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada State College, Desert Research Institute, the College of Southern Nevada, Great Basin College, Truckee Meadows Community College, and Western Nevada College. About Washoe County School District The Washoe County School District includes the Reno/Sparks metropolitan area, Incline Village, Gerlach, and Wadsworth, Nevada. The District provides each of its 62,000 students with a superior education in a safe and challenging environment and is committed to graduating every child career- and college ready.

Read More About First Student Welcomed to Medical Assistant Program at Renown

Healthy Nevada Project’s community-based approach reveals up to 90% of CDC Tier 1 genetic condition risks missed using clinical care guidelines. In a new study published today in the journal Nature Medicine, researchers behind the Healthy Nevada Project® suggest that community-based genetic screening has the potential to efficiently identify individuals who may be at increased risk for three common inherited genetic conditions known to cause several forms of cancer and increased risk for heart disease or stroke. In 2018, the Healthy Nevada Project® (the largest, community-based population health study combining genetic, clinical, environmental and social data) started notifying consenting study participants who have certain genetic variants which predispose them to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Tier 1 genetic conditions. The study focused on identifying carriers of these conditions, which include Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, and Familial Hypercholesterolemia, because they are the most common conditions and early detection and treatment could significantly lower morbidity and mortality. Initial results from almost 27,000 study participants showed that 90% of carriers of the CDC Tier 1 genetic conditions were not previously identified in a clinical setting. The authors conclude that population genetic screening would identify at-risk carriers not identified during routine care. “Our first goal was to deliver actionable health data back to the participants of the study and understand whether or not broad population screening of CDC Tier 1 genomic conditions was a practical tool to identify at-risk individuals,” explained Joseph Grzymski, Ph.D., the principal investigator of the Healthy Nevada Project®, a research professor at the Desert Research Institute (DRI), chief scientific officer for Renown Health and lead author of the study. “Now, two years into doing that, it is clear that the clinical guidelines for detecting risk in individuals are too narrow and miss too many at risk individuals.” Within the group of 26,906 Healthy Nevada Project® participants that Grzymski’s research team studied, 358 (1.33%) were carriers for CDC Tier 1 conditions. However, only 25% of those individuals met clinical guidelines for genetic screening. Additionally, more than 20% of the carriers already had a diagnosis of disease relevant to their underlying genetic condition. “We’re at a point now where it’s possible to do clinical-grade genetic screening at population-scale,” added James Lu, M.D. Ph.D., co-founder and chief scientific officer of Helix and senior co-author of the study. “What this study demonstrates is the potential impact of doing so. By making genetic screening available more broadly, we can help the millions of Americans who are unaware that they are living at increased risk for highly actionable, genetic conditions take action.” Most notably, the study found that of the 273 participants who were carriers of the CDC Tier 1 genetic conditions and had clinical record information, only 22 individuals showed any previous suspicion of their underlying genetic conditions. “For the first time, we are providing information at the individual level so study participants can make lifesaving changes to reduce their risk based on their genetics,” said Anthony Slonim, M.D., Dr.PH., FACHE, president and CEO of Renown Health and co-director of the Project® study. “We’re conducting research on the community level to develop leading-edge research on health determinants for entire neighborhoods, states and eventually, the country. Returning these results allows us to understand the prevalence of genetically programmed diseases and illnesses that we have here in Nevada and ensure we are providing the best prevention and care plans. For the individual, the return of results can be life changing.” According to the CDC, early detection and intervention of the Tier 1 genetic conditions could have a meaningful potential for clinical action ability and a positive impact on public health. The Healthy Nevada Project®, which launched in 2016, offers free genetic testing to every Nevadan, aged 18 and older, interested in learning more about their health and genetic profile. With more than 50,000 study participants enrolled in four years, the Healthy Nevada Project® has become the fastest-enrolling genetic study in the world. For more about the Healthy Nevada Project® please visit healthynv.org     Renown Institute for Health Innovation is a collaboration between Renown Health – a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California; and the Desert Research Institute – a recognized world leader in investigating the effects of natural and human induced environmental change and advancing technologies aimed at assessing a changing planet. Renown IHI research teams are focused on integrating personal healthcare and environmental data with socioeconomic determinants to help Nevada address some of its most complex environmental health problems; while simultaneously expanding the state’s access to leading-edge clinical trials and fostering new connections with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Learn more at Healthynv.org. Helix is the leading population genomics company operating at the intersection of clinical care, research, and genomics. Its end-to-end platform enables health systems, life sciences companies, and payers to advance genomic research and accelerate the integration of genomic data into clinical care. Powered by one of the world's largest CLIA / CAP next-generation sequencing labs and its proprietary Exome+Ⓡ assay, Helix supports all aspects of population genomics including recruitment and engagement, clinically actionable disease screening, return of results, and basic and translational research. In response to the COVID-19 public health crisis, Helix has launched a sensitive and scalable end-to-end COVID-19 test system to meet the needs of health systems, employers, governments, and other organizations across the country. Learn more at www.helix.com.

Read More About Population Genetic Screening Show to Efficiently Identify Increased Risk for Inherited Disease

Presented by the Desert Research Institute and Renown Health, DANA will help people learn more about the Healthy Nevada Project® and their own unique, genetic health traits What is the Healthy Nevada Project®? What are the benefits of joining this research study? How can I find out if I carry genes for health risks like heart disease, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome? What if a holographic avatar, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), could answer all these questions and more? DANA has all the answers, she is a virtual assistant with “DNA” in her name, presented by the Renown Institute for Health Innovation (Renown IHI), a collaboration between Renown Health and the Desert Research Institute (DRI). This life-sized, holographic avatar will greet individuals outside Renown Regional Medical Center’s Sierra Café, and talk to them about the Healthy Nevada Project, the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study. Members of the media are invited to meet DANA this morning from 10 a.m. – noon. Please reply to this email or call (775) 691-7308 to coordinate a meet and greet. “Unfortunately, Nevada ranks among the lowest in the nation for health outcomes—and we are working to change that,” said Anthony Slonim, M.D., D.Ph., president and CEO of Renown Health and president of Renown Institute for Health Innovation. “Through the Healthy Nevada Project® , our goal is to offer genetic testing to every Nevadan interested in learning more about their health and genetic profile. Thanks to this advanced technology, DANA will offer people a personalized explanation of the Project, and help them take the next step to better understand their health, and their health risks, so they can modify their behavior and ultimately, live a healthier, happier life.” With more than 51,000 study participants enrolled to date, the Healthy Nevada Project® is considered the fastest-enrolling genetic study in the country. The Project is also the first of its kind to return clinical results to study volunteers, which means participants can learn their genetic risks tied to heart disease and certain cancers, as well as lifestyle changes that could potentially help reduce their risk and prevent disease. Furthermore, participants can choose to share their information with their medical provider to improve and enhance their medical care. “We are always happy to engage with our study participants and look forward to having them meet and engage with DANA,” said Joseph Grzymski, Ph.D., research professor at DRI, principal investigator of the Healthy Nevada Project® and chief scientific officer for Renown Health. “At a time of physical distancing and limiting human contact where possible, using tools like an avatar and AI are important for communicating, whether it be for genetics, vaccinations or other important health information.” Visitors can interact with DANA through a touch screen (cleaned and sanitized after every encounter) to learn more about the study, enter their contact information and schedule an appointment to join the free genetics study or receive more information about their test results. Kiosk visitors are asked to maintain physical distance guidelines and use the hand sanitizer and Sani Wipes available next to the kiosk.     Renown Institute for Health Innovation is a collaboration between Renown Health - a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California; and the Desert Research Institute - a recognized world leader in investigating the effects of natural and human-induced environmental change and advancing technologies aimed at assessing a changing planet. Renown IHI research teams are focused on integrating personal healthcare and environmental data with socioeconomic determinants to help Nevada address some of its most complex environmental health problems; while simultaneously expanding the state’s access to leading-edge clinical trials and fostering new connections with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Learn more at healthynv.org.

Read More About Introducing Dana Renown Institute for Health Innovations New Life Sized Holographic Kiosk

David Hansen, MBA, joins Hometown Health to continue to serve future generations and improve the health and well-being of Nevadans Renown Health and Hometown Health are excited to announce David Hansen, MBA, is joining Hometown Health as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). In his role as CEO, Hansen will oversee Hometown Health, contributing to its growth to ensure the not-for-profit company is here for generations to come and to assist Renown in developing new care models that will deliver healthcare that is both accessible and affordable. “We are pleased to welcome such an experienced and talented leader like David to our organization and to northern Nevada,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President and CEO, Renown Health. “As CEO of Hometown Health, David will continue to foster a culture of caring and excellence, while ensuring wide-ranging medical coverage and great customer service to Hometown Health’s more than 138,000 members statewide.” Hansen has spent the previous twenty years of his career working for UnitedHealthcare, a health insurance company based out of Minnetonka, Minnesota. During his time at UnitedHealthcare, Hansen held various roles including chief financial officer of clinical & network services, west region president of network & provider services, chief executive officer of the California Health Plan and chief executive officer of the Pacific Northwest Health Plan. He has also served in executive roles with PacifiCare and TransAmerica Occidental Life and began his career in the audit and management consulting practice of Deloitte & Touche. “Choosing healthcare coverage is one of the most important decisions people make. I am excited to begin my work with Hometown Health and Renown to help our members receive the quality coverage to enhance their health and well-being,” said Hansen. “Hometown Health is such a community-focused organization and I look forward to being a part of a team that gives back to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve. ”David has an MBA in Finance and Business Policy from the University of Chicago, and a BA in Economics and Business from the University of California, Los Angeles.     About Hometown Health Established in 1988, Hometown Health is the insurance division of Renown Health and is Northern Nevada’s largest locally-owned, not-for-profit health insurance company. Providing wide-ranging medical coverage and great service to members, Hometown Health represents a philosophy of health care that emphasizes active partnerships between members and physicians. For more information, call 775-982-3000 or visit www.hometownhealth.com. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. 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 Locally Owned Not-For-Profit Insurance Company, Hometown Health, Welcomes New CEO

Renown Health Physical Therapist Dr. Kelly Winkel leads virtual event to connect adults through basic stretching exercises and helpful movement strategies to aid in healthy aging.   To help our 55+ community experience the many benefits of stretching, Renown’s Sterling Silver Club is hosting a free, virtual Rise & Shine Stretches lecture on Wednesday, July 15 from 10-11 a.m. During the live event, Kelly Winkel, doctor of physical therapy for Renown Physical Therapy, will teach attendees the basic principles of exercising as we age and provide a demonstration of gentle stretching and stabilizing exercises to help start the day. She will also share her expertise on some of the common ailments we develop as we age and offer tips for overcoming those ailments.  This virtual event will be hosted via Microsoft Teams. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP online or call 775-982-7787. A dial-in option is available for individuals who don’t have access to a computer.   “A good morning stretching routine puts the body in motion and has the power to set the tone of your entire day,” said Dr. Winkel. “Plus, stretching becomes even more important as we age and our range of movement lessens and we wake up with more aches and pains. Improved flexibility, balance, muscle control and a reduced risk of injury are just a few of the wellness benefits of routine stretching, all contributing to a healthier lifestyle. There is no better way to start your day than with a few tried-and-true stretches.”  Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable workout attire and sturdy shoes so they can try the exercises out with the group. They are also invited to ask for clarification or a modification if needed.  Anyone over the age of 55 is invited to join Renown’s free Sterling Silver Club, created to help people live healthy, happy lives every day. The Club is a program of the Renown Institute for Healthy Aging. Members enjoy exclusive benefits all designed with their interests in mind. From social events and lectures to entertainment, special discounts, and health insights and tips, this club is a place for community members to shine and embrace the joys of healthy aging. While the Sterling Silver Club is not currently hosting in-person events during this time, it is hosting educational talks like this one to help aging adults stay healthy through its online channels.  “The last few months have been difficult for many older adults as they stay indoors with little to no in-person contact with their loved ones,” said Tori DellaRocca, who oversees Renown’s Sterling Silver Club loyalty program. “The need to stay connected is more important now than ever. It has been a joy giving our members something to look forward to- a chance to learn, ask questions and share their stories. Seeing everyone tune in from their homes has been a powerful reminder that we truly are all in this together.”      For more information on upcoming virtual events from Renown’s Sterling Silver Club and to sign up, please visit www.renown.org/SterlingSilver.      About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. 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 Sterling Silver Club Hosts Virtual Stretching Lecture for 55+

22 residents transition from South Meadows Medical Center campus to more contemporary assisted-living communities in the area; 12 employees offered positions within Renown. After careful consideration, Renown Health has made the decision to close Monaco Ridge, the assisted living community located on the Renown South Meadows Medical Center campus, in an ongoing effort to ensure the highest quality and most appropriate care for our community. The facility is currently 50% occupied. “Our focus at this time is to help our 22 remaining residents transition to other assisted-living communities in the area,” said Assaad Zeid, Administrator. “Our residents and their loved ones have been an important part of our ‘Renown South Meadows Family’ and we appreciate the trust and confidence the community has placed in us.” “Northern Nevada is fortunate to have a number of forward-thinking, innovative assisted-living communities. Transitioning residents to more contemporary assisted-living communities in the area will allow them to receive additional support. Renown continues to keep up with the tremendous growth the region is experiencing, and is focusing on expanding care at the Renown South Meadows Medical Center campus to meet the need,” said Chris Nicholas, Vice President & Administrator, Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital.  As has always been the case, residents and their families have a choice of the provider and potential residence they feel is best for them. The assisted living residences in northern Nevada are widely regarded for their expertise, compassionate care, contemporary practices and attractive, modern facilities. They have capacity to accept new residents and Renown is confident their services are of the same high caliber as their residents and families have been receiving.  “The quality, compassionate care offered at the Monaco Ridge community is due to the hard work and dedication of our employees,” said Michelle Sanchez-Bickley, Chief Human Resources Officer. “Our HR team is doing everything possible to transition the 12 employees of Monaco Ridge to other excellent employment opportunities within Renown Health, or to assist those who are interested in transitioning to other local assisted living communities who are currently recruiting staff.” Monaco Ridge assisted-living is located on Double R Blvd in south Reno at Renown South Meadows Medical Center.      About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. 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 Monaco Ridge Renown Assisted Living Facility to Close

Renown Health, in keeping with its mission, vision and values and the organization’s long-standing commitment to addressing the social determinants of health, today announced its support of $145,000 to 55 nonprofit organizations with projects aiming to increase the presence and participation of women, racial and ethnic minorities, LBGTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people of low socioeconomic status, and other underrepresented groups. “Improving the health of our community is the foundation of our work. Our mission, vision and values are the essence of what makes us Renown. We are committed to fostering an environment of diversity, inclusion and cultural competence where all are appreciated, fully engaged and motivated to make a genuine, positive difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., Renown’s President & CEO. Annie Zucker, manager of community impact at Renown adds, “Social determinants of health have a major impact on health outcomes—especially for the most vulnerable populations. I am proud that Renown, as a not-for-profit healthcare organization, considers social determinants of health to enable more compassionate and comprehensive healthcare for the patients and families we serve.” The following organizations applied for and were awarded Diversity and Inclusiveness financial grants today from Renown Health:   Urban Roots   Diversity and Inclusion in the Garden Sierra Nevada Ballet  Free BOYS ONLY BALLET  Eddy House Eddy House- Children's Cabinet (EHCC) Outreach Boost   Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum  The Discovery's Cultural Competence Learning Institute    Communities In Schools of Western Nevada   CIS of Nevada Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Change Team  Dress for Success Reno -   Northern Nevada Professional Women's Group  Nevada Elite Wrestling  Nevada Elite Girls Youth Wrestling  Arts for All  Nevada Artist in Residency Program   Community Health Alliance  Conveying CHA Values in New Employee Orientation   Forever 14  Empowering Teens to Go Above & Beyond Experiential   Spread The Word Nevada  Building Home Libraries- Diversity, Culture & Inclusion  Head Injury Association of Northern Nevada  Physical Fitness Training for Traumatic Brain Injured Survivors  Urban Lotus Project  Urban Lotus Project - Service Staff Training Program   The Zawadisha Fund  We Are Change Makers   Tyler Robinson Foundation  Family Financial Grant Program   Note-Able Music Therapy Services    Improving Cultural Responsiveness & Organizational Diversity Achievement Beyond Obstacles - Reno-Sparks Rotary District 5190  Achievement Beyond Obstacles Leadership Academy  Nevada Volunteers   Inclusion Begins with Removing Language Barriers  Special Olympics Nevada  Special Olympics Nevada  Awaken   The Awaken Drop-In Center Nevada Humanities  Democracy and the Informed Citizen: An Online Salon Series   Nevada Gay Men's Chorus  Happy Holiday's, a Welcome Back Concert  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada   General Mentoring Program High Sierra Industries,  Inc . X-treme Ability Challenge  Junior League of Reno  Safe Embrace Children's Playroom  ReDirect Youth Outreach  ReDirect Youth Outreach & Boxing   Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada  Positive Action for Low-Moderate Income Youth   Domestic Violence Resource Center Domestic Violence Resource Center American Cancer Society Nevada HPV Cancer Prevention Collaborative Reno Cancer Foundation Reno Cancer Foundation under served population grant Pinocchio's Moms on the Run Pinocchio's Moms on the Run Temple Sinai Reno Access for All Sierra Arts Foundation Road Maps The All Of Us Project Reno-Sparks Negro Business & Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. Reno-Sparks Negro Business & Professional Women's Club Sierra Nevada Journeys Sierra Nevada Journeys’ Community Needs Assessment Sierra Nevada Journeys Sierra Nevada Journeys’ Community Needs Assessment Reno Little Theater Reno Little Theater- IDEA Grant Reno Little Theater Reno Little Theater- IDEA Grant High Fives Nonprofit Foundation Peer Mentorship Program High Fives Nonprofit Foundation Peer Mentorship Program Nevada Diabetes Association Changing Outcomes for Young Adults  Nevada Diabetes Association Changing Outcomes for Young Adults  Sky Tavern Sky Tavern Ability Sports Day Sky Tavern Sky Tavern Ability Sports Day Reno Bike Project Future Cycle Tu Casa Latina Outreach to Underserved Communities Sierra Association of Foster Families CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS WITH HEALTHY BODIES! Women and Children's Center of the Sierra Regrouping and Moving Forward during the Pandemic Ridge House, Inc. Health Literacy & Recruitment of Underrepresented Groups Alzheimer's Association Latino Outreach/Spanish Speaking Caregiver Support Group On Common Ground -at-Home Kits for the Heart of Community Program On Common Ground Cook-at-Home Kits for the Heart of Community Program University Studies Abroad Consortium Renown Health Diversity & Inclusion Study Abroad Scholarship University Studies Abroad Consortium Renown Health Diversity & Inclusion Study Abroad Scholarship University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Building Inclusivity through Recovery Collaboration University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Building Inclusivity through Recovery Collaboration University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Northern Nevada Latino Health Assessment University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Northern Nevada Latino Health Assessment Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada Feeding the Hungry Reno Sparks NAACP Northern Nevada Minority Health Symposium Sierra Kids Foundation Sierra Kids Foundation ACCEPT Positive Action & Health Education Risk Reduction for HIV.AIDS Northern Nevada Literacy Council Empowerment through Literacy and Education Scholarship United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra Equity Learning Community Nevada Volunteers Inclusion Begins Removing Language Barriers     Renown Health issued a request for proposals on June 18 and had anticipated funding 8 organizations. The employee Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee was impressed by the community response and Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO, chose to support all 55 applications. He notified all not-for-profit agency leaders today in a virtual meeting. Members of Renown Health’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee include: Mitch Harper, Gretna Canterbury Amber Marraccini, Rebecca Doheny, Sean Savoy, Savanah Gonzalves, Jen Walker, Barbara Mader Scherrer, Kristy Cahoon, Katie Mercer, Kara Martinezmoles, Julia Page Hensen, Annie Zucker, Meghan Meagher, Michelle Hernandez, Vivian Cruz, Mary-Ann Brown, Julia Miod and Heather Bridges. As non-profit hospitals, Renown must meet community benefit requirements to qualify for tax-exempt status, this includes funding programs that respond to public health needs and improve overall community health.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. 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 Awards Grants to 55 Area Organizations Addressing Diversity and Inclusiveness