Search

When it comes to each patient’s healthcare journey, medication is often a key chapter. After all, medication is one of the most common treatment methods to help patients on the road back to health. In 2023, 4.83 billion prescriptions were filled in the U.S., and with this number only anticipated to rise annually, having an expert pharmacy team on your side to make certain you are prescribed the ideal dosage to treat your condition, prepare your prescriptions on time and help you manage your medications responsibly is important.  Fortunately, at Renown Health, we have best-in-class inpatient and outpatient pharmacy teams to fill both prescriptions and promises for excellent care. Renown Pharmacy plays a vital role in helping us foster a health system that prioritizes patient well-being above all else. This department exemplifies the impact that a unified, expert pharmacy team can have on patient outcomes now and in the future.  The Masters of Medication Spanning three hospitals plus ambulatory locations across the health system, Renown’s growing pharmacy team – full of dedicated pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and even medical assistants – manages medications in a wide variety of patient settings, touching nearly every aspect of the healthcare continuum: Outpatient Retail Pharmacies Renown Regional Medical Center – 75 Pringle Way The Healthcare Center – 21 Locust Street Renown South Meadows Medical Center – 10101 Double R Blvd  Inpatient Pharmacies Renown Rehabilitation Hospital Renown Regional Medical Center (including Renown Children’s Hospital) Renown South Meadows Medical Center COMING SOON: Conrad Breast Center Pharmacy (in honor of Kristina Ferrari) in the Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Ambulatory Pharmacies Anticoagulation Services – Institute for Heart & Vascular Health (IHVH) Pharmacotherapy Program – IHVH and Renown Medical Group Locations Congestive Heart Failure Pharmacotherapy Program – Center for Advanced Medicine B at Renown Regional Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Pharmacotherapy Program – Renown South Meadows Endocrinology Pharmacotherapy Program – Renown South Meadows Clinical pharmacists at Renown bridge the gap between medicine and compassionate support, making sure each patient receives personalized care one prescription at a time.  “There are various roles pharmacists play within Renown,” said Clarissa Munoz, Clinical Pharmacist in the Renown Regional Inpatient Pharmacy. “Staff pharmacists work diligently to ensure correct medications are dispensed, and if compounded, make sure they were prepared properly. They also work hard to answer medication messages and phone calls, help verify orders and make sure ode trays/RSI kits are appropriately stocked and ready when needed. Clinical pharmacists work from satellite pharmacies on the floor and focus on reviewing patient charts and aim to provide additional interventions to the providers to optimize treatment strategies. We also serve as a resource for nursing staff and help answer medication questions.”  “My role in the pharmacy is pretty expansive,” added Chanelle Ajimura, Clinical Pharmacist in the Renown Regional Outpatient Pharmacy. “I maintain inventory to confirm patients can receive their medications in a timely manner both for our discharge and retail patients while balancing the Meds to Beds program, which offers medication delivery to the bedside and bedside medication counseling; collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to find the most affordable price for patients; and verifying that the dose, strength, indication, etc. is appropriate for the patient from start to finish.”  “In the pharmacy, I make sure patients are receiving appropriate drug therapy by checking for major drug interactions and ensuring appropriate dosing,” added Courtney Church, Clinical Pharmacist in the Renown Regional Outpatient Pharmacy. “I also make recommendations to providers so patients can get cost-effective therapy.”  Our pharmacy technicians work behind-the-scenes ensuring efficient medication management, making a difference in the lives of patients every day.  “A pharmacy technician is responsible for making sure the patient gets their medications on time and at the lowest price possible,” said Nate Graham, Pharmacy Technician in the Renown Regional Outpatient Pharmacy. “This is done by working with patients, insurance companies and case workers. We fill prescriptions, enter prescriptions into our system, receive and send orders for medications and maintain a clean pharmacy with an accurate inventory.”  “We do a variety of things; the task people probably know the most is counting out the medications and putting them in the amber vials,” added Rachel Vallin, Pharmacy Technician in the Renown Regional Outpatient Pharmacy. “We also help patients at the front of the pharmacy, ring out their prescriptions, answer some basic questions (deferring to a pharmacist as necessary) and billing insurance. Meds to Beds is my favorite part because I feel the most involved. I take medications to patients who are discharging up to their hospital rooms so they have it with them when they leave.”  “As a technician, I confirm that all medications of new admissions are available in our machines prior to admitting and then maintain stock during each patient’s stay,” added Tammara Axtman, Pharmacy Technician at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. "I also assist our nurses when needed in regard to any of their questions with both EPIC and Omnicell.”  Our pharmacy team is also on the move all across our health system, thanks to our Ambulatory Pharmacy programs. For patients experiencing a serious heart, lung, or endocrine condition that requires ongoing drug therapy maintenance and guidance, our ambulatory pharmacies step in to carefully monitor how their medications impact their health and well-being.  “Our role as pharmacists in this department is non-traditional because we actually see patients in the exam rooms face-to-face,” said Cory Lankford, Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist for Renown’s Anticoagulation Services. “We modify their medication regimens and drug recommendations under collaborative practice agreements.”  “Because our role is so unique, we have a lot of opportunities to make a positive impact on patients,” added Janeen Abe, Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist for Renown’s Anticoagulation Services. “We do a lot of direct patient interaction, including counseling patients on their medications and helping them navigate through their disease state.”  “As a medical assistant in this department, we’re called the patient ‘liaisons’ to orchestrate who they should go to whether it’s a nurse, a provider or a pharmacist,” added Kiara Scruggs, Medical Assistant for Renown’s Anticoagulation Services. “We look at each patient’s medications and help with the Warfarin blood thinner monitor. We get to do a lot with patients."  No matter the diagnosis, having Renown Pharmacy as an integral part of your healthcare team is a win-win situation for both you and them: you receive access to medication to help you heal, delivered to you with precision and care, and the pharmacy team has the opportunity to care for you and make a positive impact, a role they take seriously.

Read More About Department Spotlight: Pharmacy

Raquel was 33 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was April 2023, when she found a lump in her breast and was referred to the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute. After comprehensive imaging, she was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, which is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands of the breast. Between June 2023 and January 2024, she received a total mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation at Renown Health. “Breast cancer is uncommon in women under 40, but any woman with a mass or lump in her breast should have an exam by a physician and imaging at any age,” said Dr. Lee Schwartzberg. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 9% of all new cases of breast cancer in the U.S. are found in women younger than 45. “It was a pretty scary diagnosis, but I’ve been led by great people through the process,” she said. “They were so helpful and there for me throughout the chemo and radiation.” Raquel's journey through breast cancer treatment at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute was marked by the exceptional care provided by the Renown Health team, including nurses, nurse navigators, therapists, support teams and providers. Among the dedicated professionals, Dr. Michelle Chu and Dr. Lee Schwartzberg played pivotal roles in Raquel's diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan. Their expertise, compassion and commitment to patient care left an indelible impact on Raquel's experience. Their thorough examination and comprehensive approach ensured that Racquel received the best possible care for her invasive lobular carcinoma. In addition to the care provided at Renown, Raquel greatly benefitted from being connected with a mentor by Dr. Chu. This mentor, Kayla, had undergone a similar diagnosis and treatment plan, and at the same age Raquel. They texted and called each other throughout Raquel’s treatment, providing additional support through a challenging time. As of January 2024, Raquel is done with her treatment and continues to see her care team for follow-up appointments. “I’m through the worst and ready to rebuild my life,” Raquel said. To help celebrate this milestone, Nevada Athletics invited Raquel to receive the game ball at a Nevada Men’s Basketball game. She was joined on the basketball court for this special recognition by her husband, Raul; mother, Arlene; and two daughters, Ryleigh and Rhiannon. Racquel's journey is not only a testament to her resilience but also a tribute to the invaluable contributions of Dr. Chu and Dr. Schwartzberg in guiding her towards triumph over breast cancer.

Read More About Celebrating Resilience: Raquel's Remarkable Journey Through Breast Cancer Treatment

Embarking on the path to bariatric surgery is a unique and deeply personal journey. Individuals like Mary Escobar choose this life-changing route for reasons ranging from improved cardiovascular health to managing diabetes or finding relief from various health complications. In Mary's case, her two-decade-long healthcare journey not only underscores the challenges she faced but also highlights the support and expertise that ultimately led to her successful transformation through bariatric surgery. Mary's Resilience: December 2002 through February 2003 More than two decades ago, Mary experienced unforeseen health complications just days after giving birth via c-section. Septic shock, hemolytic uremic syndrome, thrombocytopenia, renal failure and a blood clot in her lung plunged her into a critical state. Intensive care, plasma exchange and a long recovery followed. After being discharged with compromised kidney function, Mary faced complete renal failure two years later, leading to dialysis and a spot on the donor list. Mary's brother, a perfect match, selflessly donated his kidney on Dec. 14, 2007, marking a turning point in Mary's health. However, the post-transplant period brought new challenges, including diabetes, high blood pressure and a significant weight gain, reaching 230 pounds. Determined to regain control, Mary explored various diets without success until she consulted with a bariatric doctor. Journey to Bariatric Surgery: November 2009 - April 2021 In November 2009, Mary opted for a gastric band, shedding 40 pounds within a year. Despite initial success, issues with the gastric band arose, prompting a consultation with Dr. John Ganser at Renown Health in April 2021. Together, they decided to transition to a gastric sleeve, with comprehensive education provided to ensure long-term success.

Read More About A Transformative Journey: Mary's Bariatric Surgery Story at Renown Health

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

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

In the fall of 2020, Dan's world was suddenly shaken when he received a distressing call: his son, Jeremy, was admitted to Renown with complications from spinal meningitis. Without a second thought, Dan rushed from Southern California to be by Jeremy's side. For an agonizing 10 days, Dan remained in the ICU. He was overwhelmed with worry and helplessness as Jeremy fought for his life on a ventilator. During this time, Dan, an esteemed artist and professor, found comfort in the collection of artworks adorning the walls at Renown. With more than 2,000 pieces of original art, Renown has meticulously curated hospital rooms, hallways and various spaces to support those in need. Dan, who talks about art's magic every day as a professor, experienced its power in a new light.

Read More About Why I Give: Dan’s Story

Becoming a Hometown Health plan member opens you up to the largest provider network in our region. As northern Nevada’s only not-for-profit health insurance company, the hometown advantage goes beyond your health coverage – and you may not be using all the perks available to you. Here are three benefits that Hometown Health is proud to offer all members to enhance wellbeing and connect the dots between healthcare and technology.  MyChart  MyChart is Renown Health's and Hometown Health’s secure online member portal that gives you direct access to your health and benefit information. From 24/7 access to your benefits and important documents to scheduling an appointment with your provider, this free tool is a great way to keep track of your family’s health. If you have a Renown primary care provider, you can use MyChart to:  Securely email your healthcare provider. Get your test results faster and view your After Visit Summaries. Request prescription refills. Schedule and check-in for appointments. Pay your bill. Request your medical records and review immunization records. Manage designated health care agents and upload end-of-life documents, such as advance directives and a living will. View or download your documents: Member ID Card, Summary of Care, Explanation of Benefits, Referrals and Authorizations. Get in touch with our Customer Engagement Center.  Telehealth  Virtual visits have never been easier thanks to Renown Telehealth and Teladoc. These two tools are convenient options that allow members to be seen by a qualified doctor via phone or video chat who can diagnose, recommend treatment and prescribe medication for many non-emergent medical conditions – no matter where you are. Some of the health issues your virtual provider can treat include:   Cold and flu Allergies Sore throat Sinus infection Respiratory infection Stomach bug Ear infection Urinary tract infection  Both Renown Telehealth and Teladoc are also staffed with specialists in behavioral health, where you can speak with a therapist or psychiatrist on a wide variety of issues, including:  Stress and anxiety Depression Trauma Grief Burnout Medication management  Renown is also proud to offer access to top-level specialty care to address your ongoing condition and help guide you through illness maintenance and education. Through Renown Telehealth, Hometown Health members have access to a variety of specialties, including (but not limited to):  Adolescent Medicine Cardiology Hematology, Oncology and Pediatric Oncology Nephrology Pediatric Endocrinology Pediatric Neurology Pulmonary and Pediatric Pulmonary Sleep Medicine  New in recent years, Teladoc is now proud to offer both dermatology and nutrition visits. Teladoc dermatologists can treat conditions like acne, rosacea and rashes, while their registered dieticians can help you manage your nutrition and weight goals.  Booking an appointment with Renown Telehealth is easy by heading over to MyChart and selecting “Schedule an Appointment.” To book an appointment with a Teladoc provider, visit teladoc.com or download the Teladoc app.  Renown Telehealth is available within the state of Nevada, and Teladoc is available in all 50 states. Your copay can be as low as $0 for each visit; check your plan documents for more information.  Doctoroo  The house call has returned – avoid long urgent care waits with Doctoroo. Through Doctoroo, Hometown Health members have access to in-home urgent care services at the same price as your regular urgent care copay. A call to Doctoroo will dispatch a fully equipped medical team consisting of an EMT and either a nurse practitioner or physician assistant to your home within a few hours. Whether you need treatment or testing, each team is ready to provide care in the comfort of your own home with their over 60 medications and antibiotics, EKGs, wound dressings, IVs, catheters and more.  Doctoroo care teams can address and treat many non-emergent care areas and conditions, including (but not limited to): Respiratory Ear, Nose, Throat Eye Wound Care Cardiac Care Musculoskeletal Gastroenterology  Doctoroo is open year-round from 7 a.m. to midnight. Book a house call in minutes in the Doctoroo app or by calling (888) 888-9930.

Read More About 3 Unexpected Perks of Choosing a Hometown Health Plan

Losing a loved one is a devastating experience that can leave a permanent mark on one's heart. It is a journey that's difficult to navigate, but with the help of family and friends the process can be eased. For the Meinzer family, the healing process was made a little easier because of the exceptional care their loved one, Susie, received at Renown. In the fall of 2022, Susie Meinzer, a breast cancer survivor, suffered a fatal stroke. The care provided by Renown’s team was a reminder of the important role healthcare workers play in the lives of their patients and families. “We just knew, the doctors, the nurses, everyone… we knew that we didn’t have much time left with Susie,” said Ken Meinzer, Susie’s widower. Humanizing Healthcare The compassion provided by the care team at Renown made a significant impact on the Meinzer family. They ensured that Susie's last moments were as comfortable as possible, and their kindness and empathy have stuck with the family since. Dr. William Graham, pulmonologist with Renown Health, was among the many healthcare workers who provided care to Susie. "It was hard enough to lose her, and we ask ourselves, ‘Why?’ a lot, but the compassion we received from Dr. Graham made it a little bit easier,” said Ken. “One night he sat with us for over an hour, just grieving with us." This act of kindness made a profound impact on the family. “As an ICU doctor, I try not only to care for my patients, but also for their families,” said Dr. Graham. “Ken and his family displayed such sincerity, compassion and love for Susie and one another. They are just wonderful people; the kind of people that inspire me to be the best doctor possible.” A Family Legacy In gratitude for the exceptional care Susie received, the Meinzer family, including Ken and his three daughters, Melissa, Nicole and Kyra, decided to donate to Renown Health Foundation. Their gift is a beautiful reflection of their love and devotion to Susie. “The donation was a way to say thank you, and a way to support the healthcare workers who continue to make a difference in the lives of patients and families every day,” said Ken. "The nurses in Renown’s ICU went above and beyond. They were a constant source of comfort and support for our entire family," said Melissa Meinzer-Benson, Ken and Susie’s eldest daughter. This was not the first time the family had experienced exceptional care at Renown. Ken and Susie had both undergone cancer treatment the previous year. Susie was diagnosed with breast cancer and had recently completed her treatment before her stroke, while Ken was treated for neck cancer. Dr. Abhinand Peddada, oncologist with Renown Health, led both their care teams, demonstrating a deep dedication to their well-being throughout their treatments. “I am grateful and humbled by the trust that Mr. and Mrs. Meinzer placed in Renown and me for their care in difficult times,” said Dr. Peddada.” Both Ken and Susie deeply appreciated Dr. Peddada’s care for them throughout their respective battles with cancer. The Meinzer family, who own Pinnacle Heating and Air Conditioning in Reno, are known for their commitment to giving back to the community. Melissa is a Veteran and has spoken about the importance of supporting others in any way possible. Susie instilled in Melissa and her sisters a spirit of compassion from an early age, and they have continued to donate to charitable causes throughout their lives. “She was such a force of inspiration, compassion and love. She was aways caring for others,” said Kyra, Ken and Susie’s youngest daughter. Susie was a beloved member of the Oak Community Church. It was there that she spent many Thanksgivings alongside her daughters, volunteering to serve meals to those in need. Charity work was a passion for Susie, and she always found ways to help those around her. She was a shining example of the importance of supporting your community and making a positive impact on the world.

Read More About Why I Give: The Meinzer Family’s Story

Most babies weigh just one pound and are roughly the size of an eggplant when they reach 24 weeks of development inside the womb. It is a crucial stage when internal organs begin functioning, and the babies' respiratory and central nervous systems are still developing.     So, in November 2021 when Kallie Johnson experienced a premature rupture of amniotic fluid around this point in her pregnancy, her care team in Winnemucca decided to transport her via Care Flight to Renown Regional Medical Center. The team at Renown Children’s Hospital immediately began discussing the risks of delivering at 24 weeks with the Johnson family.  Moving Forward with Hope Knowing the stakes, Kallie remembers never feeling rushed to decide about delivering her baby preterm. “I felt educated and supported by my care team at Renown throughout our entire stay, starting with the education they provided about what it meant to deliver my baby early,” Kallie said. “The team really helped me make the best decision for myself and my family.”    Together, Renown employees and the Johnson family moved forward with a healthy set of nerves and a powerful feeling of hope.  Weighing in at one pound 11 ounces, Sloan entered the world on Nov. 19, 2021, via emergency Cesarean section. Her birth was classified as a micro preemie because she was born before week 26 of pregnancy and so small that she fit inside the palm of her father Sterling’s hand. A full-term pregnancy is classified as reaching 39 weeks.   A Fighting Chance  Called a fighter by many Renown Children’s Hospital care team members, Sloan spent over five months in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). She was placed on a ventilator, fed through a feeding tube and monitored 24/7, overcoming daily challenges with the Renown team and her family.  As a result of being born prematurely, Sloan developed a grade one brain bleed and a congenital heart defect called patent ductus arteriosus, a persistent opening between two major blood vessels, causing too much blood to flow to the lungs and heart.   To meet the oxygen needs of her tiny lungs, Sloan was intubated and developed a severe oral aversion and high-arched palate as a result. The effects would lead to difficult developmental and physical challenges that she still conquers today. Yet, with the help of her care team – including physical, occupational and speech therapists, dieticians and doctors – Sloan continues to make progress every day.

Read More About A Fighting Chance at 24 Weeks Sloans Story

Your provider wants to send you to a specialist. Now what?  You are about to enter the referral process. A referral is your provider’s recommendation for you to see a specialist or receive specialized treatment. When it comes to referrals, the process can seem like the wild west for people not familiar with it. At Hometown Health and Senior Care Plus, we make the process simple for all our members. We know that access to specialists is a vital aspect of total health, and our goal is to break down those barriers to care at every level.   Here is a step-by-step guide to how the referral process with your Hometown Health or Senior Care Plus provider works:  1.   Your primary care provider (PCP) or urgent care provider will send a referral to the specialist’s office. A referral can also be sent from another specialist or after discharge from the hospital. This is usually done via email or fax.   2.   As your referral is sent, now would be the ideal time to discuss with your provider’s office how the specialist will receive your medical records prior to your appointment. Your provider’s office will most likely send these records to the specialist for you, but it is always a good idea to double-check with them directly.  At Renown, the referrals team will send the following items to your specialist’s office when available:  ID Insurance card Most recent and relevant office notes to support the referral The referral order Any relevant labs or imaging pertaining to the referral Demographics information  3.   The specialist’s office will call you to schedule the appointment after they receive the referral. Each office processes the referrals they receive in a slightly different time frame, so if you have any questions about the status of your referral, it is best to call their office directly. At Renown, if you are enrolled in MyChart, you can access the phone number for your specialist as soon as the team processes the referral. Those not enrolled MyChart will receive a letter in the mail with scheduling information.  4.   The specialist will start to develop a course of treatment. That may include procedures, diagnostic tests or medications. Some of these treatments may require prior authorization from your insurance plan, so don’t forget to discuss how and when your specialist will receive the authorizations before you begin your course of care to avoid any surprise bills.  What can I expect if I have a Renown specialist?  At Renown, we handle a lot of the behind-the-scenes nitty-gritty so you don’t have to. After the referral is placed, it routes to Renown’s centralized referrals team and triaged to make sure you are scheduled with one of our providers with the right specialization for your specialty care needs. This team will also obtain the prior authorization you need and will you to a specialist that is in your network and based on you and/or your provider’s preference and continuity of care. The referrals team will attempt to find you a Renown provider first if you are not yet established elsewhere.   For Hometown Health and Senior Care Plus members, prior authorization is not required for certain services if you are being referred to a Renown provider. This makes the scheduling process go quicker for both the provider and the patient.   Our referrals team strives to keep their turnaround time for referrals within three business days, not including prior authorization wait times. If your referral is marked as ‘urgent,’ it will be reviewed within one business day so you are seen as soon as possible based on the needs of your medical condition, and you will receive a direct phone call with scheduling information.   After prior authorization is obtained, the Renown scheduling team will call you through an automated phone system or via a message in MyChart with a direct link to schedule your appointment. To speak with a Renown scheduler or if you have any questions, please call 775-982-5000.  What does prior authorization mean?  Prior authorization isn’t as scary as it sounds! Essentially, prior authorization is your provider “going to bat” for you to receive this specialty level of care. Some medical services, including many specialists, are covered only if your ordering provider (usually your PCP) submits an authorization request to your insurance plan. They will include specific details about the type and duration of treatment they would like you to receive and any medical records that support your need for the specialist.  After your insurer receives the request, a licensed medical professional will review the request, your records and your plan benefits. They will decide whether the specialty treatment is considered medically necessary based on recognized standards of care.  Where can I go for more information?  Your referrals and authorizations can be viewed in MyChart. To view them, navigate to Your Menu in the upper left corner of the page, scroll to the Insurance section and click on “Referrals.”   The Renown referrals team is available to answer your questions and address any concerns. Give them a call at 775-982-2707 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Any questions you may have related to referrals and authorizations, including outside-of-Renown providers, can be directed to our expert Hometown Health or Senior Care Plus customer engagement representatives.

Read More About How Referrals Work at Hometown Health and Senior Care Plus