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3 Reasons to Choose a Senior Care Plus Health Plan
Senior Care Plus was Nevada’s first Medicare Advantage Plan and is still providing healthcare coverage to qualifying members in Washoe, Carson City, Clark & Nye Counties. Senior Care Plus is administered by Hometown Health, the insurance division of Renown Health. That relationship means Senior Care Plus is the only Medicare Advantage Plan supported and accepted at Renown. This preferred access to Renown is a great benefit for northern Nevadans. When it comes to healthcare coverage, there are three key factors to keep in mind. Here’s why a Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plan is your best choice. 1. Cost Cost matters when searching for the right insurance plan. Of the four Senior Care Plus plans available to residents of Washoe County and Carson City, three offer a zero-dollar monthly premium and all of them offer zero-dollar primary care office visits. That means no out-of-pocket costs for you. Additionally, all Senior Care Plus plans have an annual out-of-pocket maximum. This means when you reach this amount, that’s all you will pay. Senior Care Plus pays all other covered medical benefits for the rest of the year. That’s the beauty of a Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plan. 2. Size of Provider Network and Accessibility Although saving money is important, it’s more important to be able to see a doctor when and where you need to. Senior Care Plus members enjoy the most comprehensive healthcare provider network in the region. Thousands of providers, including many hard-to-find specialists, are in the Senior Care Plus network. Since Senior Care Plus is part of the Renown Health family, you get priority access to all that Renown has to offer, which you won’t find with any other Medicare Advantage Plan. 3. Coverage Medical coverage needs are personal and unique to every member. Understanding a plan’s benefits is essential when picking the best coverage for you. Of course, the important benefits you associate with a healthcare plan are included in all Senior Care Plus plans: urgent care visits, specialists’ visits, lab services, imaging — all with reasonable copays. What sets Senior Care Plus apart from the rest are the additional benefits for preventive health. For example, Senior Care Plus offers plans with a comprehensive dental benefit with first-dollar coverage, meaning you pay nothing until the benefit limit is reached. Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plans also have a vision benefit allowing you to get a new pair of eyeglasses every year. In addition, these plans offer a fitness benefit, so you can join a local gym because Senior Care Plus wants to keep you healthy. Another interesting benefit is the over-the-counter benefit. If you choose the Renown Preferred Plan, you can select $50 worth of over-the-counter products such as: cold medicine, dental products, diabetic supplies, and digestive aides. Remember, that’s $50 worth of over-the-counter products four times per year. All on a plan that doesn’t cost a thing. Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plans offer many added benefits tailored to Nevadans.
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Free Webinar Explains the Basics of Medicare
Senior Care Plus set to host a free webinar designed to help participants approaching age 65 make informed decisions about their health coverage. Navigating the Medicare alphabet can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming, which is why the experts of locally-owned Senior Care Plus, a Medicare Advantage Plan, are hosting a free webinar on the ABCs of Medicare. There are four basic parts of Medicare: A, B, C and D. Each part helps patients pay for important healthcare services such as hospital visits, doctor visits and prescription drug coverage. Set for Wednesday, August 5 and Wednesday, August 19 at 6 p.m., the free webinar will cover the basics of Medicare and answer frequently asked questions to help attendees get the most out of their health coverage. Both webinars will cover the same topics, however, two dates are offered as an added convenience to attendees. Visit SeniorCarePlus.com or call 775-982-3191 to register. “With unfamiliar words and ideas you’ve likely never come across before, learning about Medicare may feel like learning a new language at first,” said David Hansen, CEO of Hometown Health. “As you begin the process of becoming a Medicare recipient, Senior Care Plus is committed to helping you become fluent in Medicare and help you understand the basics so you can make the best decisions for your unique healthcare needs.” From the convenience of a computer or mobile device, participants will learn about: The parts of Medicare - A, B, C and D; Eligibility and enrollment options; How to personalize their Medicare options based on their healthcare needs Serving as a partner in health to both northern and southern Nevadans, Senior Care Plus is the statewide leader in helping people take advantage of Medicare Advantage. Plus, with membership perks like virtual education events and exclusive discounts to state-of-the-art health and wellness resources, Senior Care Plus is determined to help its members stay healthy and active. For more details about Senior Care Plus and your Medicare options, to attend an informational meeting, or to schedule a personal one-on-one consultation, visit seniorcareplus.com or call 775-982-3158. 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 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.
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Senior Care Plus to Provide Affordable, High-Quality Healthcare
New collaboration in Clark County grants aging adults access to a premier health plan with a nationally-recognized care model. Senior Care Plus, the Medicare Advantage plan from Hometown Health, and nationally-recognized CareMore Health, have joined forces to serve Clark County seniors with two exclusive Medicare Advantage plans, designed to improve health outcomes for aging adults and those with complex health needs. As more than half a million Medicare recipients in Nevada make decisions about their healthcare during the annual Medicare open enrollment period beginning Thursday, Oct. 15, Clark County residents will have the option to receive personalized care to address their unique health needs through two new Senior Care Plus health plans, with access to CareMore Health providers and services. Competitive plan benefits include $0 premiums, preventive and comprehensive dental coverage, no to low co-pays for commonly used services, low out-of-pocket maximums, and targeted programs and benefits to help every member optimize their health. “CareMore’s mission and its successful value-based model aligns perfectly with our commitment to offer those with Medicare insurance, the highest-quality care,” said David Hansen, CEO of Hometown Health, the non-profit health plan offered through Renown Health, the state’s most trusted health care system. “We’re proud to announce our new partnership and exclusive Medicare Advantage plans available to Clark County residents to improve their health and healthcare experience.” For over 25 years, CareMore’s patient-centered model has delivered highly-coordinated, integrated care to help every member achieve optimal health outcomes, including those with chronic conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes and congestive heart failure (CHF). The model continues to evolve, adding new programs to address important issues like food inequity, mental health and senior isolation. CareMore’s care delivery system has served the Clark County community for 10 years. The CareMore model includes an integrated team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, behavioral health and other specialists who work collaboratively to address patients’ medical, physical, and overall health and help address barriers to accessing needed care. As part of the Senior Care Plus and CareMore Health collaboration, patients will receive care where and when they need it, including care delivered in their home, virtually, in CareMore’s three Care Centers, and if needed, in the hospital. In response to COVID-19, the care delivery system has ramped up its telehealth capabilities, in addition to safety measures put in place, to ensure everyone’s safety. “This new partnership will deliver a premier healthcare solution and proven care delivery model for Medicare recipients in Clark County, said Peter Emigh, General Manager of CareMore Health, Nevada. “The CareMore delivery system has served the Clark County community for 10 years, and we look forward to working with Hometown Health to help area residents reach their health goals, thereby improving the health and welfare of the community.” Senior Care Plus has proudly served residents of Clark County since 2019, offering competitive benefit options, exceptional customer service and experienced care management. The partnership with CareMore Health is the latest example of Senior Care Plus’ commitment to Nevada’s Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare’s annual open enrollment period runs between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7, 2020. Virtual enrollment meetings, as well as online and phone enrollment options are now available. Visit SeniorCarePlus.com for more information about Senior Care Plus coverage options. About Senior Care Plus & Hometown Health Senior Care Plus is the largest Medicare Advantage plan in northern Nevada serving more than 17,000 members. Senior Care Plus is offered by Reno-based Hometown Health, Nevada’s largest not-for-profit health insurance company and the insurance arm of Renown Health. Originally named Hospital Health Plan, Hometown Health was founded in 1988 and has grown to more than 160,000 members. The Hometown Health name reflects the organization’s commitment to the communities in which it operates and its involvement in what matters most, the people it serves. To learn more about Senior Care Plus visit SeniorCarePlus.com and to learn more about Hometown Health, please visit HometownHealth.com. About CareMore Health CareMore Health is a physician-founded, physician-led integrated care delivery system that harnesses the power of teamwork to treat the whole person. Through a focus on prevention and highly coordinated care, its clinical model and designed-for-purpose approach to managing chronic disease proactively addresses the medical, social and personal health needs of its patients, resulting in clinical outcomes above the national average and ultimately, healthier people and communities. Over the past nine years, CareMore has expanded from one state to ten. And today, the CareMore delivery system provides care for enrollees in Medicare Advantage and Medicaid health plans in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, Nevada, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, DC. CareMore also is participating in a dual demonstration project in parts of Los Angeles County in conjunction with state and federal regulators to coordinate care for people eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. To learn more about CareMore, go to www.caremore.com and follow us on Twitter and Facebook @caremorehealth. CareMore Health Media Contact: Charla Hawkins M: 562-480-2130 E: charla.hawkins@caremore.com
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5 Benefits of Medicare Advantage Plans
If you are approaching age 65, you may be starting to think about the government benefits you will soon qualify for. For example, your healthcare option to elect between Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. What’s the difference? Original Medicare comes in two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers a portion of hospitalization expenses, and Part B applies to doctor visits and medical expenses, such as lab tests and some preventative screenings. A Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Part C, is an “all-in-one” alternative to Original Medicare. These “bundled” plans include the benefits of Part A, Part B and Part D (prescription drugs). Some people choose a Medicare Advantage Plans over Original Medicare because these plans offer coverage like vision, hearing, dental and more. Saves You Money First and foremost, Medicare Advantage Plans save Medicare members money –and not just a little bit of money, but a lot of money. Original Medicare only pays 80% of the cost of medical care – the Medicare beneficiary is responsible for the other 20%. A Medicare Advantage Plan is different. The Medicare Beneficiary is only responsible for a small copay, typically less than 20% of a doctor visit or procedure. More importantly, Medicare Advantage Plans have a maximum out-of-pocket amount, meaning that once you reach the limit, the Plan pays 100% of all medical services. That alone can save thousands of dollars per year – particularly if there is a hospitalization involved. Dental, Vision and Hearing Coverage What sets Medicare Advantage plans apart is the additional benefits provided that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. These benefits include dental coverage, vision coverage, hearing exams and hearing aid coverage. None of these important health care benefits are included in Original Medicare. Also, most Medicare Advantage Plans include prescription drug coverage at no additional cost, while individuals with Original Medicare need to sign-up and pay extra for Part D prescription drug coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans offer more benefits than Original Medicare and they help members save on their health care costs. Focus on Accessibility, Wellness and Preventative Health Accessible healthcare coverage is key to staying on top of your health. To join a Medicare Advantage Plan you must have Part A and Part B coverage and live in the plan’s service area. It is important to remember that Original Medicare is only valid in the United States. Fortunately, many Medicare Advantage Plans offer worldwide emergency coverage. Another important healthcare consideration to keep in mind is Medicare Advantage Plans focus on your overall well-being. They offer preventative and wellness-related benefits at no cost to you. This includes important benefits like free over-the-counter medicines and free gym memberships. You won’t find those types of benefits with Original Medicare. Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) Some people confuse a Medicare Supplement Plan, also known as a Medigap Plan, with Medicare Advantage Plans. They are different and the biggest difference is Medicare Supplement plans come with ever-increasing premiums because they are based on your age. This means the cost of these plans increase every year. Plus, they don’t offer any supplemental benefit coverage like vision, dental or hearing. That’s not the case with a Medicare Advantage Plan. In many cases, there is no monthly premium and you receive all manner of supplemental benefits. These benefit-rich, zero-dollar premium Medicare Advantage plans are enticing people to say goodbye to pricy Medicare supplement plans and hello to Medicare Advantage Plans. Don’t worry, if you join a Medicare Advantage Plan for the first time and you aren’t happy with the plan, you’ll have special rights under federal law to buy a Medigap policy and a Medicare drug plan if you return to Original Medicare within 12 months of joining the Medicare Advantage Plan. The Flexibility to Change Your Mind A common misconception about Medicare Advantage Plans is that when you join, you are still on Medicare and are not giving up your Medicare coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans are considered “Medicare Part C.” This means they combine your Medicare Part A (hospital coverage), Part B (doctor’s coverage) and Part D (prescription drug coverage) into one convenient package that costs less and provides more. You can only join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan during the enrollment periods: Initial Enrollment Period: When you first become eligible for Medicare, you can sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period. For many, this is the seven-month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after the month you turn 65. General Enrollment Period: If you have Part A coverage and you get Part B for the first time during this period (between January 1 - March 31 each year), you can also join a Medicare Advantage Plan. Your coverage may not start until July 1. Annual Election Period: Between October 15 and December 7, anyone with Medicare can join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan. Your coverage will begin on January 1 (as long as the plan receives your request by December 7). Medicare Advantage Plans have been around for more than 25 years and continue to grow in popularity. In some parts of the country, more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan. Only 40% are enrolled here in Nevada, but that number is growing every year.
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A Facility Designed with Seniors in Mind
Did you know that members of Senior Care Plus, the largest Medicare Advantage Plan in northern Nevada, have access to an exclusive, senior-focused Renown Health primary care office right here in Reno? The facility – and the Medicare plan itself – are both designed with seniors in mind; this includes specialty staff, longer appointment times, on-site services, supportive furniture and more. 4 Benefits of an Exclusive Senior Care Plus Facility Centrally Located with Senior-Focused Staff The Senior Care Plus facility, located on Del Monte Lane, is only open to members of Senior Care Plus. This exclusive access means that the bilingual staff – including doctors, medical assistants, nurses and personal assistants – works daily with aging health needs. On-Site Services and Enrollment Specialists The Senior Care Plus providers understand that seniors often require complex care management and geriatric-focused services. That is why this location offers on-site lab draws, saving travel time and stress. Another essential service this location offers is longer appointment times, ensuring members don’t feel rushed when discussing their health needs with providers. Another perk of the Del Monte location – on-site enrollment specialists. Members, and potential members, can stop by this location on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to have their SCP-related questions answered. Furniture Designed with Seniors in Mind Senior Care Plus makes a doctor visit as stress-free as possible. The office has furniture that makes each visit more comfortable for members. All of the office chairs have armrests, so seniors can easily get in and out of them. Also helpful are the exam room chairs with remote controls for reclining the chair and lifting the patient’s legs. This makes exams, such as a diabetic foot exam, less of a strain. Community Rooms Social connections are an important part of health. That is why the Del Monte Lane office has community rooms used for informative seminars and as a gathering place for members to mingle. The seminars focus on many interesting topics for older adults, such as diabetes, COPD, asthma, weight loss, nutrition, yoga and chair exercises.
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Renown Pharmacy Vaccinations
Pharmacy Vaccinations by Appointment The Renown Pharmacy team can order additional vaccines with advanced notice. Please call 775-982-7737 before scheduling to check on availability. Renown Pharmacy provides vaccinations by appointment for the following: COVID-19 Bivalent vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech) Hepatitis B vaccine (HEPLISAV-B) Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (Gardasil 9) Influenza/Flu vaccine (High dose for 65+ and standard dose for those six months to 64 years) Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Meningococcal (meningitis) vaccine (Menactra) Meningococcal B vaccine (Trumenba) Monkeypox vaccine (JYNNEOS) Shingles vaccine (Shingrix) Pneumonia vaccine (Pneumovax23 and Prevnar 20) Tetanus, provided though the tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) booster (Adacel) You may request appointments for any of these vaccines within MyChart
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Medicare’s Annual Election Period Begins Oct. 15
Annual Election Period for Medicare beneficiaries to enroll or change health insurance Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 It only happens once a year – more than half a million Medicare beneficiaries in Nevada get to decide during the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, if a Medicare Advantage plan is best for their medical needs. Residents of Washoe, Carson City, Clark and Nye counties have the opportunity to enroll in one of the plans offered by Senior Care Plus®, a Medicare Advantage Plan from Renown’s Hometown Health, which offers $0 premium plans with a variety of benefits, including worldwide emergency care, low prescription drug costs and is the only Medicare Advantage plan accepted by Renown Medical Group physicians, and offering full access to the Renown Health hospital network named “Best in Nevada” by US News & World Report for the last two years. “As the only not-for-profit health plan in northern Nevada, Senior Care Plus® is more than just a Medicare Advantage Plan; we are your partner for better health and wellbeing,” says Bethany Sexton, CEO of Hometown Health. “We regularly ask our members how we can help them in their journey to health and wellness, and our team works throughout the year to make continuous improvements to our plans. That’s why we are excited to announce new cost-saving health benefits that will be included in the 2023 Senior Care Plus® Medicare Advantage Plan." For 2023, Senior Care Plus® members will enjoy access to Renown physicians, services, and hospitals as well as new benefits including comprehensive dental services, free telemedicine visits for dermatology needs, free annual hearing exams and low-cost hearing aids and home medical equipment including blood sugar test strips, oxygen equipment and supplies, CPAP sleep apnea machines and home infusion supplies. There’s also a program that rewards Senior Plus® Medicare Advantage members for participating in healthy activities. During a time where inflation is impacting families across the country, reducing out-of-pocket expenses is just one of the ways Senior Care Plus® is encouraging their Medicare members to continue seeking the quality medical care they need and deserve. CJ Bawden, Senior Director of Government Programs at Hometown Health, elaborates on what sets Senior Care Plus apart from other Medicare Advantage Plans on the market, “At Senior Care Plus®, we are member obsessed. Annual Enrollment time can be a stressful time for those navigating the Medicare programs available to them. What makes Senior Care Plus different from other programs is that we are local, just like our members. Customer support and resources are right here in our community,” said Bawden. “We are also pleased to have a Renown Medical Group practice and medical providers devoted exclusively to offering expert care to Senior Care Plus® Medicare Advantage members at Del Monte Lane in Reno, adjacent to the Rancharrah complex,” says Dr. Derek Beenfeldt, Medical Director, Hometown Health. “Senior Care Plus members who choose to make Renown Medical Group - Senior Care - Del Monte their primary care facility enjoy same-day appointment access; longer appointment times; geriatric-focused providers and on-site Personal Assistants." Medicare beneficiaries and Medicare eligible seniors can prepare for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period by visiting medicare.gov. This website, operated by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), allows beneficiaries to compare health and drug plans so they can make an informed decision about their coverage. Prospective members can also take advantage of Senior Care Plus specific resources like free educational seminars or a one-on-one in-person meeting with an Enrollment Specialist, who can assist members in completing paperwork and ensuring you have the right medical coverage in place, for calendar year 2023. Questions are answered with live-person telephone hours between 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday at toll free number at 800-336-0123 or local number at 775-982-3232. Informacion en espanol at 775-982-3242, TTY Relay Service 711. For details about Senior Care Plus® benefits or Medicare’s Annual Election Period, visit SeniorCarePlus.com or call 775-982-3158. About Hometown Health Established in 1988, Hometown Health is northern Nevada’s only 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. Hometown Health values prevention as a key component of comprehensive care - reducing the risks of illness and helping to treat small problems before they can become more severe. Hometown Health offers a number of insurance products including HMO, PPO, HSA, Dental, Vision, Individual and Family, and Senior Care Plus, northern Nevada’s first Medicare Advantage Plan. For more information, call 775-982-3000 or visit hometownhealth.com. 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 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.
Read More About Medicare’s Annual Election Period Begins Oct. 15
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Renown Thanks Community as COVID-19 Drive-Thru Ends
After administering more than 73,000 dose one and dose two vaccinations to our community, Renown's vaccine team will conclude its efforts at Renown's drive-thru site later this month. Renown Health has been pleased to work with the Washoe County Health District, the state, and the CDC to distribute the limited supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. Leaders of the COVID-19 vaccine taskforce at Renown announced today that Wednesday, May 12, 2021 will be the last day the organization will administer dose one of the COVID-19 vaccine to community members at Renown’s drive-thru clinic. Renown's vaccine clinic will remain open until all individuals who receive their first dose of the vaccine through Renown have the opportunity to receive their second dose. To date, Renown’s vaccine team has administered more than 73,000 dose 1 and dose 2 vaccinations to medical staff members, Renown employees, students, volunteers and eligible community members. “It has been an honor assisting our local and statewide health partners in the herculean feat of vaccinating the hundreds of thousands of area residents excited to receive the vaccine,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “As we conclude our efforts at our drive-thru vaccine clinic, we are glad to continue working closely with our community health leaders and be ready to assist once again should there be a need for our support in the future. We are proud to be part of the solution for our community and pleased to have made a genuine difference in the health and well-being of others throughout this unprecedented time in our history.” “As we look forward to a brighter future beyond the pandemic, we can’t help but reflect on the more than 73,000 vaccine doses our teams administered to our community,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, Chief Nursing and Quality Officer for Health Services at Renown. “From our nurses, pharmacists, security teams, public safety experts and countless volunteer staff, each dose of the vaccine was made possible—rain, snow or shine—by dedicated healthcare champions committed to the health and safety of northern Nevadans.” “We want to offer our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the public for placing their trust in Renown to receive their vaccines, and for their patience and support of this important work,” said Wendy Meyers, Manager of Health and Wellness at Hometown Health. “The masked smiles, emotional tears of gratitude and relief, heartfelt thanks, food deliveries and many other acts of kindness will forever hold a special place in our hearts.” Community members 16+ still interested in receiving the Pfizer vaccine at Renown on May 12 are invited to make an appointment through MyChart; and walk-ins will be accepted from noon to 2 p.m. Minors ages 16 and 17 must be with a parent or guardian to receive the vaccine. For assistance, please call 775-982-2781. To schedule your COVID-19 appointment in Washoe County outside of Renown, please visit covid19washoe.com. Renown will continue providing ongoing updates to help keep our community safe on our website at covid.renown.org. 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. Clinical institutes include; Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org
Read More About Renown Thanks Community as COVID-19 Drive-Thru Ends
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The Greatest Gift of All? A Fully Vaccinated Family!
Renown joins Washoe County Health District to Offer COVID-19 Vaccines to Children 5-11 at Vaccine Clinics. Renown Health is partnering with the Washoe County Health District to help distribute the initially available, limited supplies of an age-appropriate dose of the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines to children ages 5-11. At this time, all residents 5 years and older are eligible to receive a vaccine. Renown announced today that for parents/guardians with proxy access for their children through the Renown MyChart app, vaccination appointments are now available for children ages 5-11. Pending supply, Renown expects to be able to vaccinate 1,600 children with the 2-dose series in a limited series of weekend clinics. At this time, due to limited supplies, no vaccines for children are available through Renown Medical Group pediatric offices. Vaccine appointments may only be scheduled through the Renown MyChart app; please do not contact a Renown doctor/health care provider or the Engagement Center at this time. There is no cost to establish a Renown MyChart account, and you do not need to have a Renown provider to enroll. For MyChart Technical Support, call 775-982-2781. Renown is covering all costs of the vaccine, and it is offered free of charge. “As a pediatrician, an intensive care physician, a public health practitioner and a grandparent, I encourage parents to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 now. No child should suffer, be hospitalized or die from a disease that can prevented by simply getting a shot,” says Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We remain steadfast in fighting the good fight for our community, and that includes protecting kids. Being able to serve kids and their parents, with the only Children’s Hospital in northern Nevada, and being able to administer COVID-19 vaccines to children is incredibly gratifying for our team. This vaccine will prevent deaths, ICU admissions and will prevent significant long-term adverse outcomes in children." “I tell parents, get your kids vaccinated now- because every kid is at risk,” says Kristina Deeter, M.D., MBA, Pediatric Intensivist, and Vice Chair of Pediatrics at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Please get your family- including your kids, vaccinated now to keep your family safe. Being fully vaccinated and being able to hug Grandma and Grandpa at the holidays may be the greatest gift of all this holiday season.” “The CDC recommends everyone ages 5 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against COVID-19. Widespread vaccination for COVID-19 is a critical tool to protect everyone, especially those at highest risk, from severe illness and death. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only option currently authorized for children,” says Vanessa Slots, MD, a pediatrician with Renown Children’s. “It was found to give kids strong protection against COVID-19, including against the Delta variant. Children who are vaccinated may have some side effects (chills, redness and swelling at site injection), which are normal signs that their body is building protection.” Children are advised not to receive the vaccine if: • They are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness). • They have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. • They have a history of significant allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the vaccine. 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 world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.
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Businesses: Get Employees Vaccinated Against COVID-19 for Free
Renown Health has been working with the Washoe County Health District, the state, and the CDC to distribute the limited supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. Renown has completed more than 64,000 dose 1 and dose 2 vaccinations to date, which includes all of Tier 1A (Medical Staff members, Renown employees, students and volunteers) and eligible community members – which now includes everyone 16+. “Renown is excited to continue along our goal of providing the opportunity for everyone who is interested in receiving the vaccine to be vaccinated at no charge,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We would like local businesses to know we have thousands of open appointments in early May and we encourage our business colleagues to share this information with employees so they may easily schedule an appointment through MyChart and continue on the path to a healthier and safer northern Nevada.” “Renown is excited to continue along our goal of providing the opportunity for everyone who is interested in receiving the vaccine to be vaccinated at no charge,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We would like local businesses to know we have thousands of open appointments in early May and we encourage our business colleagues to share this information with employees so they may easily schedule an appointment through MyChart and continue on the path to a healthier and safer northern Nevada.” Vaccine appointments for 18+ Anyone ages 18 and older may register for a free Renown Epic MyChart account. They do not need to have a Renown provider to enroll. With a MyChart account, they will be able to login and schedule their first vaccine appointment. These vaccines require two doses. After the first dose of the vaccine is documented in your MyChart account, you will get a notice to schedule your second dose. There are two easy ways to sign up for MyChart. Please see instructions in both English and Spanish. To schedule an appointment for a 16 or 17 year old: We have made special arrangements for minors ages 16 and 17. Please fill out this form, also found on https://covid.renown.org/vaccine/. Renown's Customer Engagement team will call the listed phone number within 14 business days to schedule the appointment. We appreciate your patience during this time as demand is high. Please note that a parent or guardian must accompany the teen when getting their vaccination. You are advised NOT to receive the vaccine if you: Are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness). Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. Have received any other vaccination in the last 14 days. Have a history of significant allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its ingredients. “Hometown Health is proud to be part of an organization offering COVID-19 vaccines to our community at no cost,” said David Hansen, CEO, Hometown Health. “The business community in northern Nevada is an important piece of the vaccination puzzle, and as a community-focused organization, we are pleased that Renown can safely offer vaccinations to local businesses and contribute to an increased hope for the future.” Renown will provide additional updates on our websites at covid.renown.org. Please see b-roll, photos and fly-over footage of our Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic here. 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. 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
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Fighting for Your Health and Safety; As COVID-19 Cases Rise, Renown is Prepared
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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Sterling Silver Club Hosts Virtual Stretching Lecture for 55+
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.
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