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When a sudden illness or injury occurs, the emergency room (ER) provides immediate medical attention to those in need. Understanding the top reasons for visiting the ER can help people make informed decisions about seeking emergency care. Here are the five most common reasons people in Nevada visited an ER in 2023. 1. Abdominal pain  One of the top reasons people visit the ER is abdominal pain. The abdomen has many organs, including the stomach, liver, small and large intestines, gallbladder and pancreas. Significant pain in this area can be a cause of concern.  Warning signs of a serious problem include abdominal pain with fever, vomiting, and not being able to move or perform everyday tasks due to pain. Seeking medical attention when experiencing these symptoms is essential. Emergency physicians can perform abdominal exams, assess the condition and rule out significant threats.    2. Fever  High fevers that do not get better with medicine and are accompanied by other symptoms can cause concern. This can indicate that the body is fighting off an infection or illness.  Fever with symptoms like vomiting, pain, altered mental status, shortness of breath or inability to perform daily functions are warning signs to watch out for. Adults and children should visit an ER, where the team can assess the causes of the fever.   3. Chest pain and shortness of breath  Chest pain and discomfort, or pain in the upper body can suggest warning signs of a heart attack. If a person is experiencing signs of a heart attack, call 911 immediately to ensure timely treatment or assessment by a medical professional. Heart attack symptoms include:  Chest pain, including pain that can be described as chest pressure, heaviness or squeezing   Discomfort in the chest, arms, back, neck, shoulders and jaw  Difficulty breathing   Sweating with any of the above symptoms   When visiting a Renown ER for chest pain, a trained medical professional will promptly perform an Electrocardiogram (EKG) in an area where preliminary assessments, also known as triage, take place. Individuals experiencing shortness of breath or trouble breathing, whether from a respiratory infection, asthma complications or other pre-existing conditions should not ignore symptoms as these can signify more serious issues.  Warning signs of respiratory distress may include:  A significant change in breathing rate A significant change in the amount of energy used to inhale or exhale when breathing Changing of the skin color to blue, gray or paleness, which can indicate a lack of oxygen Nasal flaring  Chest retractions, which can suggest difficulty bringing air into the lungs What this looks like: the chest sinking in just below the neck, breastbone or rib cage while breathing 4. Neurological symptoms  Sudden and severe headaches or seizures may prompt individuals to visit the ER if symptoms are extremely disorientating or debilitating. These symptoms could be indicative of various conditions, including strokes or neurological disorders that require prompt evaluation.  If a person is experiencing signs of stroke, call 911 immediately to ensure timely treatment.  Stroke symptoms include:  Numbness, weakness or loss of movement in the face, leg or arm, especially on one side Confusion, including trouble speaking or understanding Trouble with vision or loss of balance  When choosing emergency care for signs and symptoms of stroke, a Comprehensive Stroke Center can provide patients with immediate intervention, including evaluation, treatment and education. 5. Cough/flu-like symptoms  Emergency departments are staffed by medical professionals trained to prioritize and treat emergency and trauma situations. Receiving care at an ER should be reserved for severe symptoms and life-threatening conditions. It’s best to schedule a visit with a primary care physician for mild cold and flu symptoms. Most urgent care locations are equipped with rapid testing options, including RSV, COVID-19, influenza, mononucleosis, urinary issues and strep throat. It is critical to distinguish between common respiratory infections and more severe cases, such as pneumonia or complications from the flu.   Symptoms that may warrant a visit to the ER include:  Rapid decline in the ability to perform regular daily activities  Coughing or throwing up blood  Severe dehydration and inability to drink fluids High fever not responsive to medication  Understanding top ER visits in Nevada  While these ER complaints are common reasons for emergency room visits in Nevada, it's important to remember that emergency care is available for all immediate medical needs. Do not hesitate to seek help at an emergency room if someone experiences a sudden or severe health concern. Quick and appropriate action can make a significant difference in keeping you and your loved ones healthy.  Renown Health is the largest locally governed, not-for-profit healthcare network in northern Nevada, providing leading emergency and trauma care by board-certified emergency physicians 24/7 at three locations, including the region’s only pediatric emergency department. Renown Health emergency rooms prioritize swift assessments, advanced diagnostic tools and compassionate care, providing leading emergency and trauma care. Trust Renown ER for not just emergency care but exceptional care. Learn more at renown.org/ER.

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If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency, it's essential to seek immediate attention by calling 9-1-1 or visiting the ER for a thorough evaluation by a trained medical professional and timely intervention. Access to a convenient and trusted emergency room (ER) is critical to any person’s healthcare needs, including medical emergencies related to women’s health. We explored some common scenarios and warning signs prompting women to seek immediate medical attention with Aiden Gould, Board-Certified Emergency Physician at Renown Health. When your medical emergency can’t wait, Renown ER is here to provide you with the region’s leading emergency care to diagnose and treat your condition or illness.  Understanding Common Reasons Women Visit the Emergency Room Gynecological Emergencies: One of the most common reasons women may seek emergency care is due to gynecological emergencies such as severe pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or complications related to pregnancy. These issues can be alarming and warrant immediate medical attention if the issue persists or is out of the ordinary for you.  Emotional and Physical Well-Being: For those facing diverse medical or mental health emergencies, seeking prompt assistance is crucial for a thorough assessment and safe, timely intervention. Renown ER teams are equipped with trained professionals who provide compassionate care for individuals seeking help in the following situations: Suicide risk assessment and intervention Substance abuse assessment Assault and trauma care Crisis support and intervention Resources for ongoing care and well-being support Severe Abdominal Pain: Unexplained and severe abdominal pain that is substantially different than what is normal for you is a symptom you should never ignore as it can indicate underlying issues. Warning signs of an acute medical situation include fever, vomiting or a rapid change in motor function and inability to move due to pain. Respiratory Distress: Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing and other respiratory issues can be especially concerning. Women with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or those experiencing sudden respiratory distress should seek immediate care from a medical professional. Warning signs of respiratory distress may include a significant change in one’s breathing rate, changing of the skin color to blue, gray or paleness due to lack of oxygen, nose flaring and chest retractions. Cardiovascular Emergencies: Heart-related issues are not exclusive to men. Women can also experience cardiovascular emergencies that often go undiagnosed because symptoms differ from men. Symptoms like chest pain, extreme fatigue, vomiting or pain in the abdomen, shortness of breath or palpitations should be evaluated by an emergency medical professional as timely intervention is critical in such cases. Renown leads the region in cardiology care with our technological expertise and patient-centered approach. Our comprehensive team diagnoses heart disease and other cardiac conditions, offering personalized treatment plans.  Neurological Symptoms: Sudden and severe headaches, seizures or other neurological symptoms may prompt women to visit the ER if symptoms are extremely disorientating or debilitating. These symptoms could be indicative of various conditions from mild to severe, including strokes or neurological disorders that require prompt evaluation.  Renown Regional Medical Center is a Comprehensive Stroke Center, providing primary stroke care including evaluation, treatment and education to patients who arrive at a Renown facility with the signs and symptoms of a stroke. Compassionate Care in Times of Need At Renown Health, we understand that your time is valuable, especially in emergency situations. That's why we strive to provide patients with exceptional care, compassion and respect. Plan ahead and make informed decisions about seeking medical care by viewing your estimated triage wait time at a Renown ER.

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Access to a trusted and efficient emergency room (ER) in times of unexpected medical emergencies is crucial. Renown Health’s emergency and trauma care is available at three ER locations, including the region’s only level II trauma center and ER designed for pediatric patients to provide you and your family with prompt, high-quality and specialized care by board-certified emergency physicians when you need it. Dr. John Hardwick, board-certified emergency physician at Renown Health, describes a guide to emergency care at Renown Health below. Timely and Compassionate Care: Renown ER is committed to delivering timely and compassionate care. Experienced medical professionals at Renown will communicate openly with you, involving you in the decision-making process and addressing any concerns you may have. Upon arrival, you can expect to be promptly assessed by a team of skilled medical professionals who will prioritize your needs based on the severity of your illness or condition. Click here to learn more about the emergency care process, from check-in to discharge. Expert Medical Team: With advanced technology and experienced specialists from Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians, all patients are in good hands for emergency care at Renown Health. Our pediatric and adult emergency physicians have completed fellowship training in specialty areas such as sports medicine, ultrasound and emergency medical services. Team members in the emergency department will ensure you are informed and as comfortable as possible during your visit to minimize any pain or discomfort you may feel. Efficient Triage Process: Renown ER utilizes an efficient triage process to prioritize patients based on the urgency of their medical condition. This ensures that those with more critical conditions receive immediate attention, while still providing timely care for others. Tests such as labs or diagnostic services will often be completed while you wait to see a physician to expedite the process. Comprehensive Diagnostic Services: The ERs at Renown offer comprehensive diagnostic services to quickly identify your symptoms. This may include X-rays, laboratory tests, CT scans and other imaging studies, helping emergency physicians make informed decisions about your treatment plan.   Specialty Care and Collaboration with the Renown Health Network: We offer the area's largest network of specialized providers and services to help ensure you receive industry-leading, personalized care during and after your emergency room visit. This collaboration means you’ll have access to more specialists and a wide range of expertise to continue your care without leaving the Renown Health network. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Renown Health invests in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Renown ERs are equipped with modern medical technology, allowing board-certified emergency physicians to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Post-ER Visit Support and Resources: Your experience with Renown Health doesn't end when you leave the ER. Our team will address your questions and provide you with post-visit instructions, medications and follow-up recommendations to continue your care. With a commitment to timely and compassionate care and a team of expert healthcare professionals, you can trust Renown ER to provide the highest standard of emergency medical services when you need it most.

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Help us celebrate the holiday season by sharing joy with our Children’s Infusion Services team!  Thinking about blood can make any of us squeamish, and seeing it can be even more intimidating to the children in our lives. Being treated for a condition that requires blood transfusions or chemotherapy infusions is no easy feat, especially during the holiday season. This time of year, we are proud that we can offer our pediatric patients the power of proximity and excellence by having access to high level care close to home.  The Children’s Infusion Services (CIS) department at Renown Children’s Hospital is committed to bringing the gift of quality care to our community’s youngest patients. Whether they are caring for a child with a blood disorder or giving expert infusion care for a child battling cancer, no team does what they do better than these expert nurses, medical assistants, intake coordinators and physicians.  ‘Tis the Season to Bring Hope As the only pediatric oncology and hematology program in the region, the CIS department has a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. From inpatient chemotherapy to outpatient infusion services, this team treats a long list of pediatric blood conditions including:  Pediatric cancers Anemias Immune-mediated blood disorders Sickle-cell disease Bone marrow failure syndromes Bleeding disorders  “Our team provides a large variety of services from labs draws, sedations for procedures, infusions for diagnoses such as Crohn's disease, blood transfusions, as well as chemotherapy,” said Jen Torres, RN.  “Our team works extremely well together. We try to go above and beyond for our patients every day. It may be something as simple as a hug to comfort a parent or a special birthday gift for a patient.”  “My job allows me to work with several departments and providers when coordinating care for our littlest of patients,” added Jane Strawn, Intake Coordinator. “I assure proper authorizations are in place for the care that is needed, I communicate with our families when scheduling appointments, I organize End of Treatment Celebrations, as well as birthday shout outs and work closely with our Child Life team to help make the challenging appointment little easier.”  To best serve their patients, the team thrives on being expert multitaskers. Central line care, chemotherapy administration, blood transfusions, medication management, preventative injections, lab draws, lumbar punctures, biopsies, imaging – you name it, they do it. And they do it all with the utmost focus on safety and support.  “Our days have a lot of variation, as we perform a number of different services,” said Meagan Bertotti, RN. “We provide infusions for patients with chronic or acute medical conditions and chemotherapy/biotherapy treatment to patients undergoing cancer treatments. Overall, though, we work as a team to make these difficult procedures and treatments as easy as possible for the patients and families by providing engagement and support.”  “While we handle a lot of chemotherapy treatments for pediatric patients, we also do other infusions and transfusions as well such as blood and platelet transfusions, enzyme replacement therapies, different types of injections such as Rabies vaccine or Synagis for high-risk babies who need that extra protection during the RSV season, and lab draws,” said Chelsea Angues, RN. “We care for patients that get their therapies from outside hospitals, but the patient lives within the Reno area. We receive orders from those outside hospitals to care for those patients, so they can still be with their families and not have to travel.”  As members of the Children’s Oncology Group, a highly-regarded clinical trials group where over 90% of pediatric cancer patients across the U.S. receive treatment, teams like CIS in Renown Children’s Hospital deliver the highest standard of care. This partnership is a true testament to the devoted collaboration and relationship-building this team commits to on behalf of their patients every day.  "One of the biggest accomplishments of our team is the fact that we became a member of the Children’s Oncology Group, and the Children's Infusion Center and Pediatric Oncology became one unit,” said Shelby Nolte. "Instead of being a clinic on one side and an infusion center on the other, we really came together to make it a whole unit that collaborates on almost everything.”  “We've put much time into trying to understand other departments, their flow, their rationales and their processes so we can come to a solution that benefits our patients the greatest,” added Tiffany Macie, RN. “We've taken the last few years to really build our relationships with our pharmacy staff, our lab staff and our central supply resources. Our relationship building extends beyond the walls of the Renown building as well and out to the community providers too. In the past few years, we've been able to build relationships with the providers in the community where they trust they can send us their patients for treatment and lab draws. Finally, we've spent much time working on the relationships as a team. It's emotional work we do on our unit, and these families become our family. It's important to us that we take the time to be together outside of our shifts to enjoy one another and laugh!”  In the compassionate realm of pediatric healthcare, CIS knows that the complexities of a cancer or blood disorder diagnosis can take an emotional toll on their patients and families. The team firmly believes that emotional support can be as important as the physical and medical support throughout each patient’s unique care journey, striving to be a comforting presence during daunting times.  “The most important part of my day is collaborating with the Children's Infusion team to make life manageable for the families that are going through this experience,” added Shelby Nolte, Senior Medical Assistant. “We work as a team to make life easier for the blow of a cancer diagnosis.  We are there for our families in every way.  If they need a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen or just someone to play cards with or tell a funny story too, we are there.”  “One of the things our team does extremely well to help our patients and their families with new diagnoses is to simply meet them where they are,” said Tiffany Macie. “That looks different for every family and every patient. We work in an environment where can build relationships with our patients and their families. This allows us the unique opportunity to really get to know them. We learn their fears, their joys, their worries, what their family lives are like, and we learn how to best meet them where they are.”  Transcending the conventional boundaries of care, the CIS department closely supports each patient, offering them solace tailored to the unique fabric of each family's life.

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Flu shots don’t just protect those who get vaccinated; they protect everyone, including your family and the community. As we continue navigating the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, Renown Health infection prevention expert Whitney Robinson explains how getting your flu shot is vital for staying healthy. 5 Ways to Schedule Your Flu Shot Call Us! 775-982-5000 Urgent Care Appointments Renown Pharmacy Vaccinations Make an Appointment via MyChart Need a Doctor? Find One Now Reasons to get the flu shot Chills, body aches, fever, congestion; getting the flu isn’t fun. But in addition to protecting yourself with a flu shot, you’re helping reduce flu cases and hospitalizations, Whitney said. Flu shots are currently available at pharmacies throughout the Reno area. Whitney says the ideal time to get your flu shot is September through October, but remain relevant throughout the winter months as it only takes two weeks for the antibodies to develop in your body. This timing allows the vaccine to provide the strongest protection during the length of flu season. Who needs a flu shot? Almost everyone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the yearly flu shot for everyone six months of age and older. Equally, they consider it the first and most crucial step in protecting against the flu virus.

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When it comes to purchasing a health insurance plan, you’ve probably heard of the two plan types, HMO and PPO, but what exactly do these terms mean, and what is an EPO? Let’s learn more about these plan types and how you can choose the plan that meets your needs. What is an HMO Plan? HMO stands for “Health Maintenance Organization.” HMO plans contract with doctors and hospitals creating a network to provide health services for members in a specific area at lower rates, while also meeting quality standards. HMO plans typically require you to select a primary care physician (PCP) and obtain a referral from your PCP to see a specialist or to have certain tests done. If you choose to see a provider outside of the HMO’s network, the plan will not cover those services and you will be responsible for all charges. What is an EPO Plan? An EPO stands for “Exclusive Provider Organization.” This plan provides members with the opportunity to choose in-network providers within a broader network and to visit specialists without a referral from their primary care doctor. EPO plans offer a larger network than an HMO plan but typically do not have the out-of-network benefits of PPO plans. EPO plans do not require you to select a primary care physician (PCP) giving you a broader network of providers. EPO options are a great cost-saving option with more flexibility than a standard HMO plan. What is a PPO Plan? PPO stands for “Preferred Provider Organization.” PPO plans are often more flexible when it comes to choosing a doctor or a hospital. These plans still include a network of providers, but there are fewer restrictions on the providers you choose. PPO plans do not require you to select a primary care physician (PCP), giving you a broader network of providers. So, which plan should you choose? Each plan type has different benefits, so it depends on your health needs when choosing the right plan type. If you are looking for flexibility when choosing providers and locations, a PPO plan may better fit your needs. An EPO plan may be a better option if you want the flexibility of a larger network, but don’t necessarily need out-of-network benefits. If you regularly seek care in a certain geographic area and are looking for a health insurance plan at a lower price point, consider an HMO plan. To keep costs low, insurance carriers contract with providers and partner in plan members’ health to ensure quality care at the lowest cost. Whether you choose an HMO, EPO or PPO option, partnering with your health insurance carrier and your healthcare provider will help you receive the best care while controlling your out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that most insurance carriers offer emergency care coverage for all three plan options (HMO, PPO, EPO). Get the most out of your health insurance benefits! Established in 1988, Hometown Health is the insurance division of Renown Health and is northern Nevada’s largest and only locally-owned, not-for-profit insurance company providing wide-ranging medical coverage and great customer service to members.

Read More About Health Insurance Terms Explained: HMO, EPO and PPO Plans

Health insurance might be one of the most complicated purchases you will make throughout your life, so it is important to understand the terms and definitions insurance companies use. Keep these in mind as you are comparing health insurance plan options to choose the right plan for you and make the most of your health insurance benefits. One area of health insurance that can cause confusion is the difference between a plan's deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. They both represent points at which the insurance company starts paying for covered services, but what are they and how do they work? What is a deductible? A deductible is the dollar amount you pay to healthcare providers for covered services each year before insurance pays for services, other than preventive care. After you pay your deductible, you usually pay only a copayment (copay) or coinsurance for covered services. Your insurance company pays the rest. Generally, plans with lower monthly premiums have higher deductibles. Plans with higher monthly premiums usually have lower deductibles. What is the out-of-pocket maximum? An out-of-pocket maximum is the most you or your family will pay for covered services in a calendar year. It combines deductibles and cost-sharing costs (coinsurance and copays). The out-of-pocket maximum does not include costs you paid for insurance premiums, costs for not-covered services or services received out-of-network.  Here's an example: You get into an accident and go to the emergency room. Your insurance policy has a $1,000 deductible and an out-of-pocket maximum of $4,500. You pay the $1,000 deductible to the hospital before your insurance company will pay for any of the covered services you need. If you received services at the hospital that exceed $1,000, the insurance company will pay the covered charges because you have met your deductible for the year. The $1,000 you paid goes toward your out-of-pocket maximum, leaving you with $3,500 left to pay on copays and coinsurance for the rest of the calendar year. If you need services at the emergency room or any other covered services in the future, you will still have to pay the copay or coinsurance amount included in your policy, which goes toward your out-of-pocket maximum. If you reach your out-of-pocket maximum, you will no longer pay copays or coinsurance and your insurance will pay for all of the covered services you require for the rest of the calendar year.

Read More About Health Insurance Terms Explained: Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Maximum

Health insurance is complicated, but you don't have to figure it out alone. Understanding terms and definitions is important when comparing health insurance plans. When you know more about health insurance, it can be much easier to make the right choice for you and your family. A common question when it comes to health insurance is, "Who pays for what?" Health insurance plans are very diverse and depending on your plan, you can have different types of cost-sharing: the cost of a medical visit or procedure an insured person shares with their insurance company. Two common examples of cost-sharing are copayments and coinsurance. You've likely heard both terms, but what are they and how are they different? Copayments Copayments (or copays) are typically a fixed dollar amount the insured person pays for their visit or procedure. They are a standard part of many health insurance plans and are usually collected for services like doctor visits or prescription drugs. For example: You go to the doctor because you are feeling sick. Your insurance policy states that you have a $20 copay for doctor office visits. You pay your $20 copay at the time of service and see the doctor. Coinsurance This is typically a percentage of the total cost of a visit or procedure. Like copays, coinsurance is a standard form of cost-sharing found in many insurance plans. For example: After a fall, you require crutches while you heal. Your coinsurance for durable medical equipment, like crutches, is 20% of the total cost. The crutches cost $50, so your insurance company will pay $40, or 80%, of the total cost. You will be billed $10 for your 20% coinsurance.

Read More About Copays vs. Coinsurance: Know the Difference

Dr. Shipra Singh, a Pediatric Pulmonologist, outlines the challenges of diagnosing asthma in children due to symptoms resembling other respiratory issues. It's particularly difficult to identify in infants and young children, who may not clearly exhibit breathing difficulties. Asthma, often confused with bronchitis, croup, or allergies, is a significant chronic illness causing school absenteeism, as per the CDC. Risk factors include prenatal smoking and family history of allergies or asthma. Infants and toddlers are more susceptible due to smaller airways and respiratory viruses, which can exacerbate conditions like colds and bronchitis. How can I tell if my child has asthma? Unfortunately small children are unable to describe their symptoms, making asthma difficult to diagnose. Your child may even be active, playing and smiling, although they are experiencing chest tightness or labored breathing. Observe your child and let the child’s doctor know if: Your child’s breathing behavior has changed (coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing) Your child’s breathing pattern changes (day vs. night, with rest or activity, inside vs. outside) You have a family history of asthma or allergies Your child’s breathing is triggered by any foods or allergies With your help, your child’s doctor can make the best diagnosis to determine if your child has asthma. A pediatric pulmonologist (lung specialist) or pediatric allergist may also have to be consulted for special testing. Tests may include lung function testing, allergy tests, blood tests and X-rays for an accurate diagnosis. What is the treatment for infants and toddlers? Young children can use many of the same medications as older children and adults, although the way they take them and the dosage will differ. A nebulizer (or breathing machine) creating a medicated mist for your child to breathe through a mask may be used. An inhaler with a small spacer tube connected to a mask is also common to help your child breath medication into their lungs. Either of these options are effective. Asthma in children is treated with both fast-acting and long-term medicines to open up airways quickly for easy breathing and also to lessen asthma symptoms over time. Communicate with your child’s medical providers to create a personalized asthma management plan for them. How can I manage my child’s asthma? Recognize your child’s breathing habits and be aware of worsening symptoms. Consult with your child’s doctor on a daily asthma action plan to recognize worsening symptoms and track medications. Here’s an example of an asthma action plan provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health). Be consistent with the plan and talk to your doctor before changing it. Have an emergency plan in case of a serious asthma attack. Know where the closest ER is and know who can take care of your other children. Also know what the medical treatment coverage is under your insurance plan. Dr. Singh explains, "Discussing asthma with your child may be difficult. Some kids find the subject frightening or confusing. Others, especially the older kids, may resent the treatment and may not be interested in doing it. Talk to your doctor about advice to build an open and trusting relationship regarding your child's asthma care."

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Are you looking for health insurance coverage for the upcoming year? In that case, it's time to browse your options for an Individual or Family Plan. The Open Enrollment Period is from Nov. 1, 2023 until Dec 15, 2023. So, if you're looking for coverage by Jan 1, 2024, you must enroll by Dec 15, 2023. Get a Quote Online Suppose you don't qualify for a health insurance subsidy, no need to worry! You can still choose an individual and family health insurance plan from Hometown Health. Get a quote online by providing your location, the type of coverage you're looking for and your personal/family details. Once you've provided this information, you'll receive health plan options and pricing. And, if you find a plan you like, you can easily self-enroll online. Get Your Online Quote Today Enroll Through the Nevada Health Link Hometown Health offers Individual and Family health insurance plans on Nevada's Healthcare Marketplace, the Nevada Health Link. Through Nevada Health Link, eligible Nevada consumers can shop for, compare and purchase quality and affordable health insurance plans with ease. Nevada Health Link is the only health insurance resource that can provide eligible candidates with federal tax credits and subsidies to help cover the cost of your health insurance. Use Hometown Health's Insurance Subsidy Federal Poverty Level Calculator to see if you qualify for a tax credit or subsidy. Enroll via Nevada Health Link Work with a Health Insurance Broker  Hometown Health is northern Nevada's local insurance provider and if you have questions about Individual and Family Plan insurance benefits, you’re in luck! Hometown Health partners with our local health insurance brokers who will work with you, typically at no cost, to help you understand health insurance plans and benefits and find the plan that is best for you. Need assistance finding a broker? Connect with our team by submitting the form below. They'll provide you with a list of our local broker partners. Find a Broker Near You

Read More About 3 Ways to Enroll in a Hometown Health Insurance Plan

Seeking specialized care for your teen from a sports medicine doctor is essential. Like a coach fine-tunes a player's skills, our experts fine-tune your teen's health, ensuring they stay at the top of their game. Luis Palacio, MD, a sports medicine physician with Renown Health, shares information to help young athletes safely push their boundaries and achieve their personal best. The Role of Sports Medicine Sports medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare that focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating injuries related to physical activity and sports. Renown's Sports Medicine team consists of skilled professionals passionate about keeping young athletes performing at their peak while minimizing the risk of injury. With a comprehensive approach to care, our sports medicine doctors provide tailored guidance and solutions to help your teen reach their full potential. Injury Prevention and Education Prevention is the key to maintaining a long and successful athletic journey. Our sports medicine doctors collaborate with young athletes to educate them about proper warm-up techniques, body mechanics, and techniques to prevent overuse injuries. From understanding the importance of rest days to practicing correct form, our experts empower teen athletes with the knowledge they need to stay in the game.

Read More About Why Your Teen Athlete Should See a Sports Medicine Doctor

Participating in sports and physical activities is enjoyable and beneficial for our health. However, the risk of injuries comes with the fun and excitement of sports. Sports-related injuries, including sprains, traumatic brain injuries and broken bones, are more common than we realize and can land you in the emergency room. Dr. Scott Shepherd, Emergency Medicine Physician, provides a wealth of information. Traumatic Brain Injuries: The Invisible Threat Traumatic brain injuries come in many forms. From “mild” brain injuries, concussions, to major brain injuries and bleeds. Sometimes it is very difficult to tell the difference between a major injury and a minor injury because many of the symptoms are the same. Concussions Concussions are a type of “mild” traumatic brain injury resulting from a blow to the head or a violent shaking of the body that causes a transient alteration in mental function. They are particularly prevalent in contact sports such as football, soccer and boxing. A concussion can affect memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance and muscle coordination. Typically, concussions are not life threatening and usually short lived. However, multiple concussions can lead to permanent disabilities. So, remember there is nothing “mild” about injuring your brain. Contusions The more serious brain injuries from brain contusions (actual bleeding in the brain material) and bleeding that presses on the brain are life threatening. These injuries are caused by the same blow to the head as a concussion and the symptoms are the same from memory deficits, loss of coordination to coma. Because of this, anyone who has a blow to the head and is not acting normal should be evaluated by a medical professional. Anyone suspected of having a severe head injury should seek immediate medical attention and follow a strict protocol for rest and a gradual return to play. It is important to note a person may not lose consciousness if they suffer a concussion; however, major consequences can occur if not properly managed. If you suspect you have an emergency that needs immediate medical attention, please call 911 or visit an emergency room near you. While it is impossible to prevent traumatic brain injuries altogether, the severity of the injury can be mitigated through proper helmet usage and knowing your skill level when participating in high-risk activities. The guidelines for picking a helmet for summer activities such as mountain biking, dirt biking and riding off highway vehicles are similar to those of picking a helmet for winter sports. Learn more about choosing the right helmet. Any blow to your head, neck or upper body can result in a major head injury Signs to watch for include the following: Headache Dizziness Blurred vision Difficulty with thinking, attention or memory Sensitivity to noise or light Ringing in the ears Changes in hearing Double vision Changes in behavior Balance issues Nausea/vomiting   Sprains: The Annoying Twist One of the most common sports injuries is a sprain, which occurs when ligaments that connect bones are stretched or torn. Sprains typically occur in joints, such as the ankle, knee or wrist, and are often caused by sudden twists or impacts. Symptoms may include: Pain Swelling Bruising Limited range of motion Rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) are the initial recommended treatment, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Read More About Head Injuries, Sprains and Broken Bones