RENOWN NEWSROOM

Renown Urgent Care and Emergency Room teams encourage you to stay safe. Urgent Care is available seven days a week at 10 locations across northern Nevada and Emergency Rooms 24/7.  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. Northern Nevada Public Health’s (NNPH) Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) has issued an Air Quality Advisory due to the Davis Fire burning in southern Washoe County. Air monitors for the most region hit the “Moderate” range Saturday night, which is 151-200 on the Air Quality Index (AQI). That means some members of the public may experience health effects. All residents in impacted areas are encouraged to regularly monitor the air quality nearest them at www.airnow.gov and limit outdoor exposure when they see or smell smoke. 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.   Aleise Whitlock, APRN, Section Chief for Renown Urgent Care advises that there are people more likely to be affected when fine particle pollution reaches an unhealthy level, including: People with asthma or breathing conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. People who have heart disease or high blood pressure. Children and older adults. People 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 Ms. Whitlock. “If you do not have a health care provider, we are happy to see you. Renown Urgent Care offices are on almost every corner, with providers ready to see you.” She advises to take it easy and listen to your body, and: Limit, change, or postpone your physical activity level. Drink plenty of water.  Stay away from local sources of air pollution like busy roads and wood fires. Use a damp cloth or mask to reduce smoke inhalation if you must go outside. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions like COPD keep 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. When to Visit the Emergency Department Bret Frey, MD, President, Western Emergency Physicians and Renown Health Emergency Departments, says, “Seek emergency care if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms due to smoke exposure: Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing-If breathing becomes labored or painful, you cannot catch your breath even after resting, this may be a sign of serious respiratory distress. Chest pain or tightness- Any discomfort in the chest, particularly if it is associated with breathing, should be evaluated immediately.  Persistent coughing or wheezing- If a cough doesn’t improve or worsens, or if you develop wheezing, you should seek emergency medical attention.  Confusion, dizziness or fainting- These can be signs of oxygen deprivation, and immediate care is critical. Bluish lips or face- A clear indicator that oxygen levels are dangerously low and emergency medical treatment is needed.  Burns or smoke inhalation from a fire- Individuals who have been exposed to fire, or smoke in a confined space, should be evaluated for potential lung damage and other complications.  “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. Frey. 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 are more affordable than the emergency room at 10 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online at www.renown.org.  Emergency Care If you have an emergency, call 911. The Renown Regional Emergency Room and Renown Children’s Emergency Room, located at 1155 Mill St, Reno, NV, are equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, and Regional is the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City. Renown South Meadows Emergency Room is located at 10101 Double R Blvd, Reno, NV 89521. Wait times for triage are generally less than 15 minutes and can be viewed here. The dedicated team is ready to provide immediate attention with empathy and professionalism 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.      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.

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

Burning Man is an annual event inspired by the values reflected in the Ten Principles and united in the pursuit of a more creative and connected existence in the world. As over 50,000 congregate this week, between Aug. 27 to Sept. 4, in the high altitudes of the hot and windy Black Rock Desert, Renown Health’s emergency and clinical care teams are ready to care for Burners who may find themselves ill and in need of additional urgent, emergent care or hospitalization. This year, people from across the world are expected to make the journey in RVs and cars brimming with tents, food, water, artwork, and costumes, temporarily turning Black Rock into the state’s third largest city. “The Burning Man Project has done an excellent job preparing participants to have a safe, healthy, and wonderful time building Black Rock City and living on the playa for nine days to nurture the distinctive culture emerging from that experience. However, bringing over 50,000 people together in a high altitude, desert environment with limited access to water, food, and sanitary conditions- always presents a challenge,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Renown Health and an experienced emergency medicine physician. “Having excellent care on the playa and plans in place back here in Reno helps to mitigate that risk and ensure the health and safety of all participants.” “We welcome every Burner to northern Nevada,” says Bret Frey, MD, the board-certified emergency medicine physician who heads up the largest Emergency Department at Renown Regional Medical Center; which has the highest-level trauma center for 100,000 miles, located in Reno, NV. Dr. Frey has 23 years of experience in the medical field, and 23 years of experience treating people who have experienced Burning Man. “Burning Man is a fascinating event, and most people have a great time. However, if things go wrong, they are fortunate to have the BlackRock City Emergency Services Department, 24/7, to help. Back here in Reno, we serve as their ‘back up,’ providing care as needed, for the ill and injured and supporting clinical teams when they’re feeling overwhelmed.” Renown Health is home to three 24/7 Emergency Rooms that provide the highest level of emergency and trauma care in the region: Renown Regional Medical Center is the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City. Located near downtown Reno, this Emergency Room has several helipads and ambulance banks for patients requiring emergency and trauma care. Renown Children’s Hospital at Renown Regional Medical Center is home to the only Pediatric Emergency Roo in the region designed just for kids. This location is staffed by pediatric specialists and provides child-sized equipment and family-friendly areas. Renown South Meadows Medical Center includes South Reno’s first 24/7 Emergency Room. Located just off I-580, this location is designed to treat patients who need immediate attention for emergencies.  These locations are designed to assess and care for emergency situations, including: Heart attack symptoms Stroke symptoms Broken bones Shortness of breath Seizures Severe bleeding Head injuries Chest pains Severe pain Venomous stings and bite All of Renown’s emergency rooms are staffed by Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians, including pediatric specialists and physicians who have completed fellowship training in specialty areas such as sports medicine, ultrasound and emergency medical services. A few interesting medical conditions (Playa Foot and Playa Lung), are associated with Burning Man. The Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada is part of the lakebed of the ancient Lake Lahontan, a deep lake that existed 15,000 years ago. Lake Lahontan left fine sediments on the lake bottom to form the extremely flat surface. Playa dust is made of both larger and smaller particulate matter. The Playa dust is in the air, on the ground, and on everything in Black Rock City. People combat the dust with masks, bandannas, and colorful respirators to keep the chalky dust out of their mouths and nostrils, but the effort is often futile. Playa Foot is a malady unique to the Black Rock Desert caused by the alkali dust that makes up the desert. It is, in essence, a chemical burn. The best prevention is keeping feet covered as much as possible, applying a moisturizing skin lotion before bed and wearing socks and closed shoes each day on the playa. “Playa Lung, where the particulate is breathed into the lungs, may cause coughing, throat pain and loss of voice in the short-term,” says William Graham, MD, a specialist in Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care Medicine at Renown Health. “The dust can cause health issues for smokers, children and elderly and people with pre-existing conditions like asthma and COPD. The best prevention is to get a mask that’s comfortable with n99 filters, wear the mask as much as possible and change the filters often. Be sure to drink lots of water and take protection from windstorms. A doctor visit is recommended if any effects of breathing in dust persist beyond a week or two.” Dr. Derek Beenfeldt is the Chief Medical Officer for Renown’s not-for-profit insurance arm Hometown Health and has been a frequent participant in the Burning Man experience over the years. In the interest of wanting every person to have a wonderful experience while here- especially since over half of the participants live outside the U.S. health care system, he reminds people of the number of free and low-cost on-site health care and testing resources provided on the playa at Black Rock City. “It is important for Burning Man participants to know that without US health care insurance coverage, the costs can be significant for transportation off the playa for a medical evacuation, hospital emergency department care or hospitalization. Even for people who have insurance, in the past, some have faced some significant out-of-pocket expenses for the flight or transportation to Reno-area hospitals or emergency departments.” He shares the following information; On Site Medical Response A community of EMTs, paramedics, nurses, medical students, and physicians are on site at Black Rock City in RVs to provide emergency response and urgent care to participants as needed. Local Hospital Response Since 2011, the Burning Man organization, has contracted with Humboldt General Hospital in Winnemucca, Nev., to staff and equip Rampart Urgent Care, a field hospital that offers X-rays, ultrasounds, a hand-held head scanner, lab tests and a pharmacy. The single-room wooden structure is easily seen- it is painted pink and yellow. The hospital’s 40 beds are located in adjoining tents. At Rampart, when possible, patients are treated on site. EMTs, medics and nurses are empowered to practice medicine to the fullest ability their licensing and credentialing allow. Patients are not charged for Rampart Urgent Care services, which is covered as part of their ticket fee. The Nevada State Health Division, Bureau of Health Protection Services is also on the playa. You will know them by the Nevada State Health Division logo on their shirts. All Renown’s physicians remind people that if they are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, they should go to the closest emergency room (ER) to get needed medical care. Delaying care for a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke, can be life threatening or lead to serious complications. 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. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About As 50,000+ People Congregate for Burning Man, 100 Miles Northeast of Reno, Renown Health’s Emergency Teams and Hospitals Prepare to Serve

Justin Coran, PhD, MPH, Chief Analytics Officer of Renown Health, Reno’s only not-for-profit, charitable health care network, is one of 100 senior leaders in data science to be nationally recognized, and the only expert from Nevada to win an AI100 Award celebrating the achievements of those making significant advancements in the field of Analytics, Data Science & AI. “These leaders demonstrate leadership in the development and deployment of AI technologies in their industry, innovative thinking and contributions that have advanced the field of Analytics and have a track record of measurable impact with their teams, such as improved business outcomes, increased efficiency, and improved quality of life for customers,” AIM stated.  Dr. Coran was named one of four “Data Driven CxOs” on AIM Research's list of the 100 most influential artificial intelligence leaders in the U.S. for 2024 at an in-person ceremony on July 26 at MachineCon USA in NYC.  “We are so pleased that Dr. Coran and his team have been nationally recognized at being at the forefront of data science and technology,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “Over the last year, Justin has built a high-performing team and created a supportive environment that has improved business operations and patient care. Justin’s dedication to improving the reliability, integrity and accuracy of data is inspiring teams to achieve significant results that have benefited many. Justin is a dedicated leader and is well deserving of this recognition. We are very proud of his accomplishments and thank him and his team for all they do for Renown and our patients.” Dr. Justin Coran is a data scientist and applied medical sociologist with over twenty years of experience in health care reporting systems, advanced analytic product development that assists with medical decision-making, culturally competent non-biased medical care, physician-patient interaction, and healthcare quality. Dr. Coran joined Renown Health in 2023 as Chief Analytics Officer and was appointed as an adjunct professor for the University of Reno School of Medicine. Leading a division of nearly 60 professionals, Dr. Coran is responsible for creating the strategy and vision for data engineering, data analytics, and data science. He completed his graduate training at the University of Florida where he received his Doctoral degree in medical sociology and Master of Public Health degree in hospital administration and epidemiology.  Dr. Coran says, "Care teams need accurate and timely information to make decisions that directly impact patients. With a reliable system to analyze and deliver complex data, improvements and impactful changes can be made every day. This is where the power of a data and analytics team comes into play.” As lead for Renown Health’s Enterprise Data & Analytics (EDA) department, Dr. Coran and his team are leaders of this transformation. This team cares for Renown’s caregivers by delivering key data and insights with thorough analytics. Their data-driven approach ensures the organization is moving towards consistent progress and excellence in patient care, creating a better healthcare experience for all.  According to Justin and his team, every day brings a blend of exploration, engagement and discovery. Their role within the health system is central to turning data into useful ideas that drive meaningful change for all.    Justin Coran is a member of the leadership team at Renown Health. Renown Health is listed as Forbes' Best Healthcare Employer in Nevada. As the region’s only Level 2 Trauma Center for adults and children, Renown serves over 1 million people and 100,000 square miles. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center is named #1 in the State of Nevada for 2024, 2023 and 2022.  Read more here. Renown Health is hiring exceptional professionals and offers a culture of dignity and respect with opportunities for flexibility and growth. As a national health leader, Renown provides access to state-of-the-art technologies, advanced facilities, and integrated patient systems. For more information, visit renown.org/careers.     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.

Read More About Reno Home to Analytics and Data Science Expert of The Year

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.

Read More About Renown Health Awarded Prestigious ‘Gold Stars Level 10’ Designation for Implementing Most Advanced Patient Electronic Medical Record

Renown Health has earned the “Best Place for Working Parents” designation for 2024 as a family-friendly workplace in Nevada.   “We are honored to be recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. This designation reflects Renown’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where our physicians, clinicians and employees can thrive professionally and personally. We understand the challenges that working parents face, and we are working to foster a more family-friendly environment. Together, we are building a People-First culture that values caring, integrity, collaboration, and excellence.” “This designation recognizes Renown Health’s commitment to supporting working parents with family-friendly policies and practices,” said Sandeep Randhawa, MS, Chief People Officer. “Our People First culture and mindset supports the well-being of Renown’s more than 7,500 exceptional physicians and employees. Our best-in-class talent management programs focus on attracting and retaining healthcare professionals; ensuring that Renown’s values are reinforced with strategic decisions aimed at empowering our employees to perform at their best. We are incredibly proud of our team and the total rewards package we offer. We continue to look at meaningful ways to recognize and reward our extraordinary team for their contributions and achievements.” “This designation recognizes Renown Health’s commitment to supporting working parents with family-friendly policies and practices,” said Sandeep Randhawa, MS, Chief People Officer. “Our People-First culture supports the personal needs and well-being of Renown’s more than 7,500 exceptional physicians and associates. Our best-in-class talent management programs focus on hiring, training, and growing our professionals; ensuring that Renown’s values are reinforced with every strategic decision. We are incredibly proud of our team and the benefits we offer. We will continue to look for new benefits and conveniences to bring to our extraordinary team.”  “The Best Place for Working Parents” is made up of community businesses that work to educate organizations on the importance of promoting family in the workplace. Renown was recognized for offering the following family-friendly benefits.  Expanded physical health, medical, prescription and dental benefits for full-time and part-time employees Flexible Spending Accounts Enhanced wellness and mental health support Appreciating and engaging employees Paid volunteer opportunities Everyday Amazing and Celebrate Amazing service milestone events Community and family event discounts Debt-free Financial Wellness program Emergency Financial Fund through Renown Health Foundation Educational assistance reimbursement, student loan repayment, continuing education Onsite Childcare Center Flexible schedules and locations Retirement Savings Plans and matches For more information or to join the Renown family, apply online at renown.org/careers. 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.

Read More About Renown Health Earns "Best Place for Working Parents" Designation

Renown Health, the premier provider of healthcare services in northern Nevada, is proud to announce its physicians, nurses and clinicians have again been selected as the winner of several 2024 Best of Reno Official Community’s Choice Awards. These accolades reflect the unwavering dedication, exceptional service and high-quality care delivered by the Renown Health team to the communities it serves.   Each year, the Best of Reno Community’s Choice Awards recognizes northern Nevada businesses and organizations. The awards program starts with public nominations, and from the top five nominees in each category, the voting round selects the finalists and winners. This year, Renown Health was honored as a winner of the following categories: Best Hospital/Medical Center: Renown Health Best Hospital Emergency Room: Renown Health  Best Maternity & Childbirth Center: Renown Health, Women’s Health- Multiple Locations Best Family Practice: Renown Health, Primary Care-Multiple Locations  Best Pediatric Clinic: Renown Health, Pediatric Care- Multiple Locations  Best Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic: Renown Health, Urgent Care-Multiple Locations  “We are honored to receive these Best of Reno Community Choice Awards, as they represent the trust and appreciation of our patients, their families and the broader community,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of our entire team, from our medical staff to our support services. I am proud of them and the exceptional care they provide each day. As the area’s only not-for-profit healthcare network, Renown is dedicated to putting People First and making a genuine difference in the health of the people and communities we serve. Together, we are fostering a culture rooted in our values of caring, collaboration, integrity, and excellence. We appreciate and are humbled by the community’s confidence in our care and service.” For a primary care physician or practitioner, please visit www.Renown.org or schedule an appointment by calling Renown’s customer service agents by phone- Mon-Fri: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat-Sun: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 775-982-5000.  Join our talented community of healthcare professionals today as an employee, volunteer, or donor at www.renown.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.

Read More About Renown Wins Best of Community Choice Awards 2024

Only organization in Nevada and one of 4,100 to receive national recognition for healthcare supply operations. Renown Health has earned the Top 25 Medium Hospitals- Supply Chain of Distinction Award, which recognizes top performing hospitals and health systems in North America for "perfect order" metrics for supply chain performance by GHX. The Supply Chains of Distinction Award honors GHX Exchange-connected provider organizations that excelled in driving best-in-class supply chain operations. This is achieved through the successful execution of perfect order metrics during a calendar year. GHX represents more than 4,100 hospitals across North America. “We are proud to recognize our Supply Chain team for achieving exceptional performance and being recognized nationally for best-in-class operations,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Renown Health. “A well-run supply chain helps to ensure that physicians, nurses, and clinicians have the necessary resources to provide quality care to patients. Effective supply chain management helps to reduce costs, minimize waste, and optimize inventory levels. We celebrate and thank our team for their continued dedication to making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.” Awareness of hospital supply chains increased during the COVID-19 pandemic when lockdowns were implemented globally, slowing down the manufacturing of new products and pharmaceuticals and interrupting the smooth flow of goods. Supply chains play a role in every industry, but those in healthcare are particularly vital, ensuring that the right products in the right quantities are available at the right places and at the right times, to ensure excellence in patient care. "Each of these outstanding organizations demonstrates a deep commitment to innovation in service to a more reliable, responsive and resilient healthcare supply chain," said Tina Vatanka Murphy, president, and CEO, GHX. "Renown Health is driving the industry forward and making positive, lasting contributions to the patients and families we serve together.” “With more than 4,100 North American hospitals vying for this level of excellence, this is an enormous feat for our purchasing and data management teams,” says Mary Shipley MBA, LMT, CCT Director of Supply Chain at Renown Health. “It is difficult to meet these standards of performance, and we’ve been working towards this for ten years. It is heartwarming to be nationally recognized for our work for our medical professionals and patients.” This ranking is based upon a set of "perfect order" metrics, rated as a percentage of PO lines sent across the GHX Exchange that are touchless and completely automated, from purchase through payment. ### 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.  About GHX Building on decades of collaboration among providers, manufacturers, distributors and other industry stakeholders, Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX) is leading the charge in helping organizations run the new business of healthcare. By automating key business processes and translating evidence-based analytics and data into meaningful action, GHX is helping the healthcare ecosystem to move faster, operate more intelligently and achieve greater outcomes. With the support of GHX, healthcare organizations have removed billions of dollars of wasteful healthcare spend. For more information on GHX’s suite of cloud-based supply chain solutions, visit www.ghx.com and The Healthcare Hub.

Read More About Reno Home to Top-Performing Supply Chain of Distinction

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 provides world-class patient care through a sustainable quality improvement program. The American College of Cardiology has recognized Renown Health for its demonstrated commitment to comprehensive, high-quality culture and cardiovascular care. Renown was awarded the HeartCARE Center National Distinction of Excellence in 2024 based on meeting accreditation criteria, and through their ongoing performance registry reporting. Hospitals and health systems that have earned an ACC HeartCARE Center designation have met a set of criteria, including participating in at least two ACC Accreditation Services programs, NCDR registries and targeted quality improvement campaigns, such as the Patient Navigator Program: Focus MI, designed to help hospitals and institutions close gaps in guideline-based care. Renown Health was previously awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation with Primary PCI Distinction, Heart Failure Accreditation with Outpatient Services Distinction and Transcatheter Valve Certification by ACC Accreditation Services. “We are proud to be the region’s leader for cardiac health, heart and vascular care with the most advanced medical, surgical and minimally invasive specialty care, technology and research,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Renown Health. “On behalf of the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health team, our patients and our community, we are humbled to be nationally recognized for the cardiovascular care we provide and to be considered a destination for heart care.” “Renown Health has demonstrated its commitment to providing northern Nevada with excellent heart care,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Renown Health with the HeartCARE Center designation.” Hospitals receiving the HeartCARE Center designation from the ACC have demonstrated their commitment to consistent, high-quality cardiovascular care through comprehensive process improvement, disease and procedure-specific accreditation, professional excellence, and community engagement. The ACC offers U.S. and international hospitals like Renown Health access to a comprehensive suite of cardiac accreditation services designed to optimize patient outcomes and improve hospital financial performance. The nationally acclaimed Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health provides the region with top-tier cardiovascular care, including 11 cardiovascular specialties, 52 providers and 69,000 patient visits per year. ### 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 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®.   About the American College of Cardiology The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source of professional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at acc.org or follow @ACCinTouch.

Read More About Renown Health Recognized for Excellence with American College of Cardiology Heartcare Center Designation

Kerry Kelly, MPH has joined Renown Health as Community Health Program Manager. Ms. Kelly comes to Renown from the Food Bank of Northern Nevada where she served as Director of Programs and Community Engagement. She had previously been employed as a Medical Practice Supervisor with Renown Children’s, responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of three ambulatory pediatrics medical practices. With her extensive background in public health and community engagement, Kerry brings a wealth of experience to the role of Community Health Program Manager. Ms. Kelly will play a pivotal role in fostering Community Benefit health initiatives that address northern Nevada’s most pressing health needs, reduce health disparities, promote community wellness, and improve access to care for vulnerable populations. “We are excited to welcome Kerry as our new Community Health Program Manager,” said Suzanne Bharati Hendery, MA, APR, Chief Communications & Customer Officer. “Community is at the center of our mission, and we embrace our commitment to make a genuine difference in creating a healthier Nevada for all. Kerry has a passion for community health and a proven track record in driving initiatives that promote health equity, increase insurance coverage, and enhance health outcomes. The vital role that Renown Health plays as the only local, not-for-profit, charitable healthcare network in Reno will be strengthened by her commitment. We look forward to the innovative strategies and partnerships she will bring to further enhance the health of the community we serve.” Kerry completed her Master’s of Public Health with an emphasis in Community Health Education at San José State University and her BA in Psychology, Community Health Science at the University of Nevada, Reno. Kerry will report directly to Sierra Kelly Martinez, MPH, Director of the Customer Engagement Center. Renown Health has long-standing commitment to the community than spans more than 160 years. This commitment has grown and evolved through significant thought and care in considering our community’s most pressing health needs. One way this is done is through conducting a periodic, comprehensive Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Through the CHNA process, Renown Health identifies the greatest health needs, and ensures resources are appropriately directed toward outreach, prevention, education, and wellness opportunities where the greatest impact can be realized. For more information on the most current Community Health Needs Assessment, visit renown.org/About/Community-Commitment/Community-Health-Needs-Assessment. Renown Health also funds and supports NevadaTomorrow.org, a website that can be accessed free of charge, and provides residents with up-to-date sources of quality-of-life data (such as health and socio-economic information), key reports that describe our community’s current quality of life needs, promising practices to improve people’s overall quality of life, and quality of life improvement efforts in our community. 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 7,200 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 locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health

Read More About Kerry Kelly, MPH Selected as Community Health Program Manager for Renown

Clinical researchers with the Healthy Nevada Project co-author research paper with findings that emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer risk assessment – including a focus on genetic medicine – to help ensure that individuals at high risk are identified and supported proactively rather than reactively.  Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 39 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased age, hereditary factors, obesity, and alcohol use. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment and detection. In Nevada there are an estimated 2,310 new breast cancer cases a year, and genetic mutations such as in the genes BRCA1 or BRCA2 remain a top risk factor for this prevalent disease. Recognizing the urgency for progress in breast cancer research, a collaborative effort between physicians, advanced practice providers and scientists from the Healthy Nevada Project® (HNP) and Helix have unveiled groundbreaking research. This study explores how genetic screenings are a necessary supplement to traditional testing methods, together offering more accurate insights into a patient's likelihood of developing breast cancer in the future. HNP is operated by Renown Genomic Medicine and the Institute for Health Innovation and is one of the largest community-based population health studies in the country. Their team works in collaboration with Helix, a leader in precision health that delivers comprehensive genomic solutions. Together, this dynamic partnership aims to understand breast cancer risk factors and pave the way for more effective preventative measures. The combined research team studied 25,591 female HNP participants to evaluate the performance of different genetic screening approaches to identify women at high risk of breast cancer. The results of this research suggest that a combined monogenic, or single-gene, and polygenic, or multi-gene, approach to breast cancer screenings helped produce more accurate results and more closely identify study participants who have a high genetic risk of developing the disease. "Based on this research, we are advocating a shift in approach which would improve breast cancer risk assessment through a combination of effective family history ascertainment and genetic screening,” said Joseph Grzymski, PhD, principal investigator of the Healthy Nevada Project, research professor at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and co-author of the breast cancer research paper. “This tailored approach, founded on the assessment of individual genetic risk, not only intends to elevate patient well-being but also will improve efficiency and equity in healthcare." Complementing the team’s research on leveraging genetics to identify women at low genetic risk of breast cancer that could safely defer mammogram screenings by five to 10 years that was released in late 2023 in JAMA Oncology, the study suggests that incorporating genetic information can assist in personalizing breast cancer screenings and optimizing the use of screening resources. "Existing disparities persist across various facets of breast cancer screening and treatment; however, genetic screening is clearly a powerful tool to help facilitate early intervention for those at higher risk,” said Jamie Schnell Blitstein, APRN, a primary care nurse practitioner at Renown Health and co-author of the breast cancer research paper. “By placing a heightened focus on risk, we underscore the pivotal role of preventative breast cancer screening.” Despite the availability of effective methods for early screening, co-authors of this research found that 78 percent of women with a family history of breast cancer had their risk ascertained only after a breast cancer diagnosis. The findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer risk assessment – including a focus on genetic medicine – to help ensure that individuals at high risk are identified and supported proactively rather than reactively.  “These findings that can profoundly impact how healthcare is delivered were only made possible by all the participants who were willing to consent to research,” said Alex Bolze, PhD from Helix and co-author of the publication. “Broad-scale collaboration projects like these between Renown Health and UNR that engage large populations where participants share both their genetic information as well as electronic health records drive advancements in preventative medicine, as well as fundamental biological research.”   The research paper was officially accepted on Jan. 29, 2024, and will be published by Elsevier, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. The contents of the paper will appear in the international journal Genetics in Medicine Open. Read the full article by visiting sciencedirect.com. The Healthy Nevada Project is currently recruiting new study participants. Free to all Nevadans with a saliva sample or blood draw, participants and their referring providers receive access to whole-exome sequencing and clinical grade results that help provide insight into their unique genetic risks tied to heart disease and certain cancers. If you are interested in enrolling in the study, schedule a Virtual Consent Appointment through MyChart or contact the Renown Institute for Health Innovation at RenownIHI@renown.org or (775) 982-6914 to be connected to a Genomic Representative. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’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 region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. To join the Renown Health team, visit renown.org/careers. About Helix Helix is the leading population genomics and viral surveillance company operating at the intersection of clinical care, research, and data analytics. Helix enables health systems, life sciences companies, payers, and government partners to accelerate the integration of genomic data into patient care and public health decision-making. Learn more at helix.com.

Read More About Research Shows Genetic Approaches to Breast Cancer Screenings Yield More Accurate Results

(Pictured Above: Dr. Frieda Hulka, Pediatric Trauma Program Medical Director at Renown Children’s Hospital, helps announce pediatric trauma verification on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024) Renown Health, a locally governed, not-for-profit academic healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California and the teaching hospital for the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, has been verified as the first level-2 pediatric trauma center in northern Nevada by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This recognition is a historic first for children’s healthcare in northern Nevada. Renown Regional Medical Center is the region’s only Level II Trauma Center (adult) and one of the largest hospitals in the United States, with 826 licensed beds, providing care to approximately one million patients across 17 counties, across 100,000 square miles between Sacramento and Salt Lake City. Serving urban, suburban, and rural communities, Renown Health is one of the region’s only providers of neonatal care with both a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and the largest newborn intensive care unit (NICU) in the area. RENOWN ONLY ONE OF TWO IN NV; ONE OF 153 IN THE US The pediatric trauma verification by the ACS recognizes that the Renown team offers immediate, around-the-clock, emergency treatment for pediatric trauma patients. Renown is one of only two health systems to receive the designation of a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center in Nevada by the ACS; and the first in northern Nevada to earn this national distinction. To achieve verification, the hospital must meet rigorous standards for comprehensive care, staffing, facilities, research, and educational contributions. Nationwide, only 153 hospitals are pediatric trauma centers. The new status considers trauma treatment capabilities of Renown’s pediatric emergency department as well as the ability of Renown Children's Hospital to offer such services as pediatric surgery, pediatric intensive care unit stays and pediatric physical and occupational therapy to children recovering from traumatic injuries. EXTENSIVE ON-SITE REVIEW “This new achievement was granted after an extensive on-site review conducted by an expert team from the American College of Surgeons; a group dedicated to improving the care of surgical patients and safeguarding standards of care in a safe, optimal and ethical practice environment,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are proud that Renown Regional Medical Center has earned the designation of being the only ACS verified Level 2 Trauma Center for adults in the region since 1984. This verification process, renewed every three years, was completed in late December 2023 alongside the new verification for Renown Children’s Hospital. Now with UNR Med, we celebrate serving our community with a robust Level 2 Pediatric Trauma Center; and have grown to become a nationally recognized children’s hospital with a robust academic department of pediatrics.” “The team at Renown Children’s Hospital consistently provides outstanding pediatric trauma care, and we are thrilled that the American College of Surgeons has awarded us with this official distinction,” said Dr. Frieda Hulka, Pediatric Trauma Program Medical Director at Renown Children’s Hospital. “This is particularly significant for families in northern Nevada, where trauma remains the leading cause of death in infants and children. Some nationwide studies show that children treated at pediatric trauma centers have a lower mortality risk compared to children treated at other facilities.” This year marked the first time the emergency department's pediatric capabilities were evaluated separately. To be a designated Level II Trauma Center, a hospital must have 24-hour immediate coverage by general surgeons and multiple specialties, such as orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, and emergency medicine. In addition, the hospital must provide trauma prevention and ongoing education for its teams and incorporate a comprehensive quality assessment program. The emergency department did not meet the minimum volume of 200 pediatric trauma patients per year to qualify for the level-1 pediatric designation, but the Renown team anticipates with growing community support, combined with UNR Med’s research and residency programs, that they will pass this threshold in the future. “More than 100,000 children between the ages of zero and 17 live in Washoe County, and that number continues to grow,” said Nicholas Mannering, Trauma Program Manager at Renown Health. “Caring for our community’s children is a responsibility we take extremely seriously, and we are so grateful to our patients and the families for trusting us with their care.” “Both the pediatric and adult trauma verification honor the many pioneering trauma physicians, surgeons and clinical and support teams who have built a stellar reputation over the last 160 years for Renown; and align with our strategic vision for providing comprehensive and best-in-class healthcare for the people of northern Nevada for the next 160 years,” said Chris Nicholas, CEO of Renown Regional Medical Center. “These designations celebrate our team’s commitment to maintaining and exceeding the highest standards of care for our patients.” GRATEFUL DONORS INVEST IN NORTHERN NEVADA’S CHILDREN 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,” adds Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Chair of Pediatrics (UNR Med) and Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital, “100,000 area children now have access to more than 30 pediatricians, including general pediatricians and specializing specialists in oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology, emergency medicine, urology and many other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and a dedicated pediatric floor at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, a significant percentage of pediatric patients requiring critical and specialty care had to be transferred outside of our region 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.” In 2022, the hospital treated 82,544 patients, performed 26,388 inpatient and same-day surgeries, gave care to 37,380 children through its pediatric providers, and delivered 3,792 babies. In June 2023, Renown Regional Medical Center expanded its pediatric critical care services to the region with a New Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with advanced technology and trained healthcare professionals to give special care for women and babies. Renown also has a Neonatal Transport Team which brings infants with serious illnesses, injuries, or complications from outlying communities to the comfort of Renown's NICU. In July 2023, The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health welcomed members of the first resident class of the new UNR Med Pediatric Residency Program. Renown Health is a 501 c3 not for profit organization. Donations to the Children’s Hospital are needed and accepted here.   About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit academic healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. Renown Regional Medical Center is the teaching hospital for the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. 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 for both adults and children, 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.

Read More About American College of Surgeons Awards Level II Pediatric Trauma Designation to Renown Children's Hospital