Level 10 is the highest level of recognition that can be reached, placing the health system in the top 3% percent of all Epic users internationally.
For the first time, Renown Health has been awarded the designation of Epic Gold Stars Level 10 for exceptional utilization of the most advanced electronic medical records (EMR) technology available today.
The "Perfect 10" Gold Stars Level 10 designation is the highest level of recognition that can be reached, placing the health system in the top 3% percent of all Epic users internationally.
“To have instant access to a patient’s comprehensive medical history and electronic medical record, allows for more informed decision-making and better care for patients,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “This award for the highest level of adoption of the Epic/MyChart electronic medical record is a result of years of hard work, a substantial investment in technology and training, and a culture of collaboration among clinical, operations and technology team members to provide the highest level of care to our patients. We are very proud.”
Renown’s Commitment to Patient Care and Safety
Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) have revolutionized the way physicians and healthcare providers manage patient information, enhance the quality of care, and improve patient care and safety. Epic Systems Corporation (Epic) is a leading provider of EMR systems that are used by health care organizations across the globe. The Epic Gold Star Level 10 award represents the highest achievement for users of the software. The system stores patients’ personal health information including treatments, procedures, test results, allergies, medications and more. Patients and providers can access charts, view test results, and read after-visit summaries conveniently and securely. In addition to comprehensive medical records operability, the system makes it convenient for patients to schedule appointments, refill prescriptions and quickly contact their physicians and medical providers.
Renown’s Commitment to Innovation
“Achieving a Gold Stars Level 10 designation demonstrates Renown Health’s dedication to staying at the forefront of patient care technology,” says Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer for Renown Health. “I am so proud of our team’s commitment to collaboration and innovation. This award is a testament to the dedication of our physicians and clinicians who strive daily to deliver the highest standards of care for our patients.”
The Epic’s Gold Stars Program provides a scorecard of how effectively an organization is using the system and provides a roadmap for improving clinical and financial outcomes. Gold Stars Level 10 reflects that Renown Health has adopted at least 95% of the Epic Gold Star features and is categorized as being a leading-edge practice in technology use.
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, 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.
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Renown Health Expands Access to Advanced Deep Brain Stimulation Care
Renown Health is expanding access to advanced neurological care with the availability of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery at the Renown Institute for Neurosciences, bringing one of the most sophisticated treatments for movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, closer to home for patients across northern Nevada.
“The availability of Deep Brain Stimulation at Renown represents a significant step forward in the level of neurological care we can provide locally,” said Chris Nicholas, MHA, FACHE, CEO, Renown Regional Medical Center and COO, Renown Health. “DBS is a highly specialized therapy that requires advanced technology, surgical expertise and a coordinated care team. By bringing this treatment closer to home, we’re improving access to essential and advanced care options while helping patients achieve better outcomes and quality of life.”
DBS is used to help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia; a neurological movement disorder causing involuntary, sustained or repetitive muscle contractions, leading to twisting movements, abnormal postures and sometimes pain, affecting one muscle or the whole body, when medications alone are no longer effective. DBS uses targeted electrical impulses delivered to specific areas of the brain to help regulate abnormal neurological signals. For many patients with movement disorders, DBS can significantly improve symptoms, restore independence and enhance quality of life.
This milestone was made possible in part through the generosity of eight local foundations and individual donors, coordinated by the Renown Health Foundation. Contributions ranged from $5,000 to $333,000, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing specialized care in the region.
“Philanthropic support played a critical role in making Deep Brain Stimulation available at Renown. Investments from local foundations and individual donors helped fund the advanced technology and infrastructure required to launch this highly specialized program,” said Gregory Walaitis, MEd, Chief Development Officer at Renown Health. “Their generosity is directly expanding access to leading-edge neurological care, allowing patients in our region to receive complex, life-changing treatment close to home and reinforcing Renown’s commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care.”
Dr. Jason Knight Joins Renown Regional Medical Center As Chief Medical Officer
“We are truly excited and honored to welcome Dr. Knight to Renown,” said Chris Nicholas, MHA, FACHE, CEO of Renown Regional Medical Center. “His experience leading clinical and operational teams, driving quality improvement, and fostering a culture of safety across an integrated academic health system will be critical as we begin our journey to becoming a High Reliability Organization. Dr. Knight leads with strong multidisciplinary collaboration, partnerships with nursing and data-informed decision making. He is a trusted and visionary physician leader whose commitment to excellence will continue to elevate care for the patients and families we serve.”
