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Hospital network brings high-quality, affordable, on-demand acute care to local residents. DispatchHealth, a provider of in-home medical care, today announced a partnership with Renown Health to provide Reno/Sparks residents with high- quality medical care in the comfort of their homes. The partnership aims to provide patients with another option for safe access to medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. DispatchHealth and Renown’s goal is to offer the most vulnerable patients at-home care options if it is in the best interest of their health needs. DispatchHealth’s model is uniquely positioned to help treat an extensive range of common to complex injuries and illnesses, including but not limited to urinary tract infections, dehydration, fall injuries, nausea, sutures and more and is accepted by most major insurance plans. If a patient is uninsured, there is a flat fee of $275, which includes all medications administered and lab tests on site. “It’s more important than ever to be able to offer patients convenient, high-acuity medical care that is also cost-efficient,” said Bill Butcher, regional market director, DispatchHealth. “The partnership with Renown Health provides safe care for people without them having to leave their home, helping to ensure community members get the right care at the right place at the right time.” Patients requiring medical services for sudden or urgent illness, such as sore throat or skin rashes, can request care by going to the DispatchHealth website, accessing the free mobile app  or calling 775-439-1529. Once contacted, the medical team arrives within a few hours to treat the patient in their place of need and consists of either a physician assistant or nurse practitioner, along with a medical technician. DispatchHealth’s medical teams wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during all visits, including masks, gloves, and protective eyewear. Additionally, kits and devices are sanitized during and between visits. The medical team is able to perform a variety of advanced tests and treatments, ranging from blood tests to a 12-lead EKG, to IV fluids and more. To ensure continuity of care, DispatchHealth provides a detailed report to each primary care physician, living community, or a home health agency, in addition to electronically sending prescriptions to a patient’s pharmacy if needed. For emergencies, including but not limited to, chest pain, signs of a stroke, allergic reactions or severe injuries, individuals are urged to call 911 and seek safe, acute care in one of Renown’s emergency rooms. Renown has a variety of safety measures in place contributing to the overall health and safety of its patients and staff. Learn more about Renown’s commitment to keeping the community safe. “Renown is focused on the well-being of our patients and community. Our goal is to improve health through proactive community-based prevention, while creating the best healthcare system for those with acute and chronic disease,” said Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown Health. “We strive to find innovative ways to serve our community and are pleased to partner with DispatchHealth to bring affordable, on-demand in-home emergent and urgent healthcare delivery to patients in the Reno/Sparks area. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Renown and DispatchHealth worked diligently to accelerate the launch of this program in our community to help us continue fighting the good fight against the virus.” Renown accelerated the launch of DispatchHealth in order to help fulfil its mission of making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities it serves. The first mobile medical vehicle arrived in-market on April 20 and a second vehicle will be operational May 19. DispatchHealth is available in 19 markets across the U.S., including Las Vegas and the Reno area from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including holidays. Hours of service will expand to 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. with the launch of the second vehicle on May 19.     About DispatchHealth DispatchHealth has redefined healthcare delivery to offer on-demand acute care and advanced medical care for people of all ages in the comfort of their own home. DispatchHealth's emergency trained medical teams are equipped with all the tools necessary to treat common to complex injuries and illnesses. DispatchHealth works closely with payers, providers, health systems and others to deliver care in the home to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits, as well as hospital stays and readmissions. A visit with DispatchHealth typically costs 80-90 percent less than the average emergency room visit. Acute care medical teams are available during the day and also on weekends, evenings and holidays, and can be requested via app, online or a quick phone call. Advanced Care and Extended Care patients must be referred by a healthcare professional. DispatchHealth is partnered with most major insurance companies. For  more information, visit DispatchHealth.com. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, 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, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Dispatch Health Partners & Renown to Provide In-Home Medical Care

Embraces patient and family-centered care, enhanced safety measures and new visiting hours.   Today, Renown Health announced the Patient Supporter program, recognizing the important role that family and friends play in the healing, recovery and care of patients and serve as integral members of the health care team. With a continued decline in COVID-19 patients and the move to Phase 2 of Governor Sisolak’s Silver State Stabilization program, and in alignment with the Nevada Hospital Association, Renown hospitals and medical practices are now allowing limited visitors for non-COVID-19 patients and have put extra safety measures in place to protect patients, visitors and healthcare employees. One healthy adult Patient Supporter may now accompany a patient to their Renown medical visit or hospital stay. Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown said, “We live by our values of caring, integrity, collaboration and excellence. We believe in ‘person-centered care,’ an approach that embraces the perspective of the patient and their loved ones, while promoting a healthy, encouraging environment for caregivers and addressing the health needs of our community.” At Renown, "family" is defined by the patient. The patient may designate anyone they choose as their Patient Supporter. The Patient Supporter may be asked to assist the health care team with communications to other family members and friends, participate in training and education activities and assist the patient with complying with care and medication instructions. Jen Richards, PhD, RN, Chief Nursing Officer for Acute Services explained, “The partnership between patients, families and healthcare providers is based on the understanding that everyone's role is important. What we do together is greater than what any of us can do alone. Involving families in the patient's care supports the healing process and can improve the outcome. This belief shapes our work, our services and the care we provide.” Beginning today, each patient may be accompanied by one healthy adult Patient Supporter. Enhanced safety measures in place include across all Renown sites to safeguard health include: • Wearing a mask at all times; • Observing hand hygiene practices; • Conducting health screenings upon each entry; • Implementing strict social distancing protocols; • Extra cleaning and disinfection of high-touch, public surface areas. In alignment with the state-wide guidelines, visitors will be limited to one Patient Supporter per patient and be able to access hospitals as noted: • Renown Children’s Hospital: Open access. (Two parents and/or guardians may be designated as Patient Supporters, however, due to current space      constraints, we ask that you visit one at a time). • Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center, 3 pm-8 pm • Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, 9 am-4 pm partnerships; the importance of including trusted support people in your care; Nutrition; the nurturing aspect of food; https://www.renown.org/find/renown-regional-medical- center/shops-at-renown/ Spirituality; wellness resources and the Spiritual Center & Estelle J. Kelsey Interfaith Sanctuary https://www.renown.org/explore/spiritual-care/interfaith-spiritual-center/ Healing arts, including art, music, Fianna’s Healing Garden and The John & Sue Dermody Children’s Healing Garden, serene environment designed to promote patient healing and environments conducive to health Physical, emotional safety, security and patient confidentiality. There are multiple ways to support patients at Renown Regional Medical Center, South Meadows Medical Center, Renown Children’s Hospital or Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. You can send a personalized message to a loved one and it will be hand-delivered to patients staying overnight. https://www.uat.renown.org/interact/contact-a-patient/. Staff are pleased to arrange video calls with loved ones. To speak with a patient, call 775-982-4100. Renown Care Providers Are Fighting the Good Fight For You. You may send a Thank You note or make a donation to support their efforts at https://www.renown.org/donations-covid-19/. For more detailed information on the Patient Supporter program visit https://www.renown.org/interact/ Please see b-roll to accompany this story here.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, 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, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Patients Encouraged to Have One Supporter Accompany Them to Medical Visit or Hospital Stay

Need Also Exists for Handmade Gowns and Surgical Caps  Renown caregivers are grateful for the community’s love and enthusiasm for sewing masks, gowns and surgical caps. We continue to need these items and appreciate your support. Masks for Patient Visitors: We are requesting that community members sew masks for loved ones visiting patients at Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center. All patterns and cotton or cotton-blends are welcome. Isolation Gowns: For community crafted isolation gowns, please use the Renown-approved pattern and instructions. Bouffant (Surgical Caps): The pattern we are using for community-crafted Bouffants is available here. Donations are welcome at our drive-thru, open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., located in the valet area of Tahoe Tower at Renown Regional Medical Center. All handcrafted masks, gowns and surgical caps will be laundered and sanitized before being distributed. We are so grateful for our community’s support during these unprecedented times. To address the many generous offers of assistance, we have compiled this information and hope you find it helpful. https://www.renown.org/donations-covid-19/.   ###   About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, 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, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org

Read More About Renown Seeks Handcrafted Mask for Hospital Visitors

Recognized as national leader in LGBTQ+ care by Human Rights Campaign Foundation for 2022 All people who need medical care should be able to see their doctor or have a hospital visit without worrying about being mistreated, harassed or denied service outright. Data from the national CAP survey shows that LGBTQ+ people experience discrimination in healthcare settings; and that discourages them from seeking needed care. These results highlight the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ people from discrimination in healthcare. Renown Health and UNR Med caregivers, supported by community LGBTQ+ and Transgender Allies and partners, are working to bridge the gap for LGBTQ+ patients and families, and to become a more inclusive organization. This week, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation recognized Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nev. as the first and only hospital in Nevada designated with a perfect score, and at the highest level of support as “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader.” The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) is the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey of healthcare facilities on policies and practices dedicated to the equitable treatment and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees. We constantly strive to be among the best in the nation for quality, safety and patient experience," said Dr. Thomas Graf, interim CEO and Chief Clinical and Quality Officer. "This recognition confirms what the Renown Health team is dedicated to – providing the best patient care possible. Quality and safety are the responsibility of every employee and physician at Renown, and we are proud that the Renown Regional Medical Center team has been chosen among the best in the state and nation for our commitment to LGBTQ+ patient-centered care.” “Renown Health is proud to join the state of Nevada, which also earned top rankings on the Human Rights Campaign State Equality Index, and the City of Reno on the Municipal Equity Scorecard for LGBTQ+ equality,” said Sy Johnson, MBA, interim president and Chief of Staff. “The Human Rights Campaign HEI offers a powerful way for organizations to affirm that they are committed to LGBTQ+ patient-centered care and extend non-discrimination protections to our LGBTQ+ employees, who play a key role in ensuring sensitive, knowledgeable LGBTQ+ care.” “We at UNR Med are so proud to be partners with Renown in this effort,” said Nicole Jacobs, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)Associate Dean, Diversity and Inclusion; Clinical Psychologist / Professor; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UNR Med. “The designation of being an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equity Leader demonstrates Renown’s strong commitment to advancing equitable healthcare in Nevada, our core and shared values and our shared mission of addressing the healthcare disparities in our backyards.” A record 906 healthcare facilities actively participated in the 2022 HEI survey and 496 of those earned an “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Equality Leader” designation. Renown Regional Medical Center is the first and only hospital in Nevada recognized by the Human Rights Campaign. No other hospitals in the state met their stringent standards for the 2021 rankings. “Every person deserves to have access to quality healthcare, be respected and heard by their doctor and feel safe in the facility where they are receiving care,” said Tari Hanneman, (she/her) Director of Health & Aging at The Human Rights Campaign. “The Healthcare Equality Index, at its core, strives to ensure LGBTQ+ people are protected and affirmed by their healthcare providers and feel safe seeking services. Our HEI active participants are truly pioneering the healthcare industry by implementing robust, comprehensive LGBTQ+ inclusive policies that hopefully, because of their work, will become standard practice The HEI evaluates and scores healthcare facilities on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars: Foundational Policies and Training in LGBTQ+ Patient-Centered Care LGBTQ+ Patient Services and Support Employee Benefits and Policies Patient and Community Engagement Suzanne Hendery, MA, APR, Chief Customer Officer, who led Renown’s application process, noted the remarkable progress reflected in the team 2022 HEI submission includes: Updated Medical Records with Preferred Name and Pronouns. Kathleen Zaski, BSN, RN, Director of IT Applications explains why this is so important. “Your name and identity are core to who you are as a person, and here at Renown, we aim to take care of you as a whole person and to provide the highest level of quality care to our community – all while ensuring the experience is exceptional and tailored to the individual. Our medical records system supports our doctors, nurses and care team in capturing this vital information. We are now able to capture every person’s preferred name, sex and sexual orientation to better care for them.” Allowing visitation without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity. Whitney Hansen, PhD, Director of Service Excellence says, “I know how important it is to our patients and their families that Renown serves our entire community and that we provide a welcoming, safe space and sense of belonging to all. We are proud of Renown’s visitor policy, inspired by family members, who requested that the policy encourage two family members per day be able to visit a loved one hospitalized at Renown.” Gender Neutral Restrooms. Chris Baker, CHFM, Director Facilities Engineering, whose team has created over 48 gender-neutral restrooms across Renown says, “Ensuring that private restrooms are equally available to everyone on our campus is just one way we can provide a more inclusive, caring space for the people we serve.” In addition, Renown clinicians and caregivers received recognition in the following areas: Every staff member receives training in LGBTQ+ patient-centered care Both “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” are included in both the patient non-discrimination policy and in Renown’s employment nondiscrimination policy Offering transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits to employees and members of Renown’s not-for-profit health plan, Hometown Health Providing substantial support and awarding grants to area organizations addressing diversity and inclusion, LGBTQ+ community Pride events and collaboration with LGBTQ+ organizations as an ally “I’m extremely proud of the people I get to work with every day who make achievements like this possible, says Brian Colonna CHC, CHPC, CHRC, Director of Compliance. “This is a meaningful designation, said Bethany Sexton, MA, Chief Transformation Officer. “I feel so proud to be part of a team and organization that helps translate our mission as an organization into action that matters for every member of our community.” Mitch Harper, Director of Network Performance, said, “We have just begun on this journey. We recognize there is still so much more to improve upon in becoming an inclusive organization. We are working to create a safe and welcoming environment for our community and our employees. Access to basic human services should not be contingent on an individual’s skin color, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or beliefs.” Sean Savoy, Manager of Spiritual Care at Renown said, “Good news indeed! So glad that Renown Health has achieved this milestone with HRC – a leader in civil rights for sexual orientation-gender identity minorities. I look forward to the continuing work around striving to achieve clinical equity, cultural competency, and respect for our LGBTQIA patients and employees.” For more on LBGTQ+ care and providers at Renown, visit renown.org/diversity/lbgtq-at-renown/ Join the Renown team Renown Health is now hiring key roles in our organization to support the health and well-being of our community. To join the Renown family to Fight the Good Fight, apply on line at careers.renown.org/ About the Human Rights Campaign Foundation The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work. 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. 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 Regional Named Health Equity Leader for Nevada

Stephanie Kruse of Reno has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Trustee of the Year Award from the Nevada Hospital Association (NHA). Each year at the association’s annual meeting, the Nevada Hospital Association publicly acknowledges one trustee who exemplifies exceptional leadership professional excellence; outstanding achievements; innovative accomplishments and extraordinary compassion in caring for the community. “Stephanie’s effectiveness in advocating on behalf of hospitals, patients, and the health care system- as well as her personal connection and passion for improving the community’s overall health are what made her an excellent choice for this year’s award,” said Pat Kelly, NHA’s President & CEO. “Steph Kruse sets an inspiring example of someone who has dedicated her life to promoting public understanding of, and support for, the healthcare systems serving Nevada’s communities. She serves as an advocate for the provision of high quality, affordable and accessible healthcare services, resulting in healthier Nevada communities for all.” Kruse was nominated by Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health, who wrote, “The daughter of a nurse and a former nurse herself, Stephanie understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare systems. This year, in addition to her four years of service on the Renown Health Foundation Board and serving as chair, Stephanie has made a significant and lasting contribution to our community by helping to train and grow the next generation of nurses and pediatricians; and expanding critical care facilities for babies, children and families in northern Nevada.” “I’m honored by Renown’s nomination and to be part of the mission of such an excellent organization,” said Kruse. “Supporting access to quality healthcare in our region is a top priority of mine and I hope that I can continue to convince others to do so as well.” Three of the major projects that Kruse has directed and completed on behalf of the Renown Health Foundation include: The Orvis School of Nursing and Renown Health partnership to provide nursing students with full ride scholarships to assist in building a sustainable nursing workforce in Northern Nevada. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with the Renown Foundation now provides funding for up to 24 Orvis School of Nursing students each year. Scholarship recipients receive funding for educational expenses including tuition, fees, and books for the nursing program. Students can complete a paid apprenticeship at Renown Health and have a guaranteed job at the hospital following graduation and license obtainment. The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health new three-year Pediatrics Residency Program. The inaugural cohort of pediatric residents started this summer. The new residency will help shape future pediatric practices – and fill a state and nation-wide physician specialist shortage. Over a three-year period, four newly trained physicians will be selected each year for a total complement of twelve residents. Formerly, UNR Med students interested in becoming pediatricians had to leave the area to complete their residency training elsewhere. The William N. Pennington Foundation, through the Renown Health Foundation, which Kruse leads as Board Chair, paved the way for this program, creating a pipeline of much-needed pediatricians for our state, especially in under-served and rural areas – to serve vulnerable children and families of Nevada with high-quality, affordable care. New Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units at Renown Regional Medical Center. To alleviate current capacity constraints and allow for expansion and new services, several aging facilities are being replaced and new patient care areas have been constructed at all Renown hospital campuses. Renown Regional Medical Center has expanded its pediatric critical care services. Women from throughout Nevada and California deliver their babies at Renown Regional Medical Center for the added specialty care and safety of a NICU. Renown also has a Neonatal Transport Team which brings infants with serious illnesses, injuries, or complications from outlying communities to the comfort of Renown's NICU. These spaces provide a nurturing, healing environment for babies and their families. These expansions were made possible through the collaborative efforts of Renown Health, the Renown Health Board, construction partners and the unwavering support of the community. A lifelong support of health and care and community Kruse graduated from nursing school and became a part-time Registered Nurse in a Sioux Falls, South Dakota nursing home while attending Augustana College to obtain a degree in journalism. As part of her journalism program, she completed an internship in the public relations department of a Sioux Falls hospital, and that led to her accepting a position as director of public relations at a sister hospital in Aberdeen, SD. In 1981, she moved to Reno to be the director of marketing for Saint Mary’s Hospital. Ten years later, Kruse graduated with her master’s in business administration from the University of Nevada, Reno. With not much in her pocket, she bought a Mac computer that helped launch her journey as a business owner. She called herself- appropriately- Stephanie Kruse and Associates (or SKA) and offered clients a strategic, thoughtful approach to their marketing communications. Since then, Kruse has grown SKA to KPS3, which is now a multi-million-dollar firm with over 50 staff members. KPS3 was named one of Inc's Fastest Growing Companies in the US and has also consistently been voted as a ‘Best Places to Work’ in northern Nevada. Kruse has several clients who have been with her and the company for all or most of the 30-year history. “Whether it’s for the community, a friend, family, a coworker, or someone in need, giving back has always been a part of Steph’s fabric,” says Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer of the Renown Health Foundation. “Stephanie brings strategic vision and is wholly dedicated to our community. Stephanie is a community asset, a compassionate leader and an exemplary Board member that is well deserving of this award. She holds a spot in her heart for organizations that address improved access to better health and human services, and we are fortunate to have her in Nevada.” In addition to her service at Renown Health Foundation Board, Kruse is active in many community organizations including the boards of High Sierra Industries/WARC, Access to Healthcare Network, the University of Nevada, Reno’s Foundation Board, and the Desert Research Institute. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community.   About the NHA The Nevada Hospital Association is a not-for-profit, statewide trade association representing Nevada’s acute care hospitals along with psychiatric, rehabilitation and other specialty hospitals as well as health related agencies and organizations throughout the state. Allied with the American Hospital Association, the NHA is an independent organization headquartered in Reno, Nev.

Read More About Dedicated Community Leader, Stephanie Kruse Honored by NV Hospital Association for Excellence and Improving Health of Nevada

For leaders, employees and patients of Renown Health, April 14, 2020 will eternally be etched into the COVID-19 pandemic timeline. This was the day the organization invited community leaders and members of the media to tour the Alternate Care Site (ACS) in the Mill St. Parking structure. While other healthcare systems around the world were setting up field hospitals to care for an anticipated influx of COVID-19 patients, Renown was the first to do so in a parking garage. During this preview event, Renown Health CEO and President, Dr. Tony Slonim, spoke to area leaders on the decision to commission the $11 million Alternate Care Site, which at the time, was a precautionary measure and a demonstration of Renown’s commitment to the health and well-being of the one million people and communities it serves across 100,000 square miles of Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Also on April 14, 2020, Dr. Slonim observed his 56th birthday. Rather than a celebration to mark the occasion, during the news conference, he received a call that would further alter his life. The intensivist caring for his dad, Anthony Slonim Sr., in a New Jersey hospital, told him that after a hard-fought battle against the novel coronavirus, his father had died. Dr. Slonim said, “April 14, 2020 was the day the COVID-19 pandemic was no longer just a tragedy devastating the east coast and other hotspots around the world. COVID-19 hit home, stealing my father and threating both of my beloved communities- New Jersey and Reno - that my family calls home.” The bright light of LOVE shines through the darkness Later that week, on April 16, 2020, Beth Macmillan, Executive Director of Artown loaned Renown the LOVE sculpture, a one-ton, welded aluminum artwork with letters 10-feet tall and eight-feet wide created by artist Laura Kimpton and fabricated by Jeff Schomberg, where it lights up Renown Regional Medical Center’s main entrance. LOVE glows, and continues to glow, in Renown’s signature purple every evening, shining brightly for patients, employees, visitors and passersby to enjoy. The art piece debuted at Burning Man in 2019, and was originally slated for the 9/11 Tribute Museum in NYC.  “Healthcare heroes and patients of the hospital have been warmed and inspired by the art and this one word, LOVE! Now, more than ever, the power of art has provided something beautiful on which to focus,” says Beth Macmillan. In July, the LOVE sculpture found a permanent home at Renown thanks to a donation from the Robert and Dorothy Keyser Foundation. “Through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LOVE sculpture has been a powerful source of hope, inspiration and determination for our community,” said Blake Smith, chair of the Keyser Foundation. “Now, we can’t imagine the entrance of the hospital without it. We are happy that the incredible piece of art will continue shining a bright light while spreading warmth and comfort to all who care for those in our hospitals, patients and families, and those who pass by.” (LOVE sign B-Roll.) For Dr. Slonim, he found the art a reminder of the love of his father. “I have so much respect for artists like Laura and Jeff, and the way they connect with people through their art. Passing by the LOVE sculpture was immensely therapeutic for me, especially after the loss of my dad,” said Dr. Slonim. “Caring for others and their emotions is also an art. Over the last year, I have been inspired by the compassionate caregivers who have practiced the art of medicine under extremely stressful and difficult conditions brought on by the pandemic.” When words fail, art speaks Recognizing art’s powerful healing capabilities, Renown collaborated with prominent artist and fine art photographer, Anicia Beckwith, to immortalize the many battles fought against and amidst COVID-19 within the healthcare system’s walls. Beckwith captured portrait images of Renown caregivers, patients and their loved ones, showing raw and touching scenes from the COVID Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Departments, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Wilbur D. May Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Alternate Care Site field hospital. A group of Renown caregivers hold a COVID patient’s hand. Tears well up in their eyes as the patient takes his last breath. Care providers respond to a patient’s only request – a facial shave. The man beams at the sight of his freshly groomed face, and is visibly touched by the tender care he received to make it happen. Lupe, an environmental services worker, takes special care in her efforts to clean and sanitize patient rooms—a craft she has perfected and taken pride in for the 25+ years she’s worked at Renown. These are just a few of the captivating moments Beckwith illustrates through her art. Beckwith’s full photo gallery of images from Renown are located here; and downloadable visual assets are available here.    “I was in awe as I watched Renown caregivers administer chest compressions to a patient whose heart had just stopped,” said Beckwith. Promptly after assisting in saving that patient’s life, I observed a nurse walk into the room next door where an elderly patient peacefully discussed coming to the end of hers. I can’t help but wonder how the staff have these conversations daily—always with compassion, dignity and grace. It was an honor and privilege to commemorate this pivotal time in our world’s history, and in turn, aid in the healing process for those hurting both physically and emotionally.”  “Anicia’s photography provided a comforting outlet for all who were involved in the project,” said Annie Zucker, Manager of Community Impact at Renown. “Her work gave care givers an opportunity to reflect on the last year and fueled the strength and determination they needed to get through it, as sometimes it takes an outside lens to see the magnitude and impact of your work. Anicia gave patients and families an opportunity share their stories and feel support and encouragement from the outside world.” In addition to taking photos on standard digital cameras, Beckwith also honed her skills using various vintage film cameras and historical techniques. “I purposely use these images as testimony to the science in front and behind the lens,” said Beckwith. “COVID has shown us technological advances cannot cure every condition, and sometimes we must go back to the basics to move forward. Some of the film I used for this project is no longer made and rare to possess. Each time I click the shutter translates to one less photographic possibility left in the world. To decide when and what to capture is a metaphor for the importance, reverence and weight I place on the subject in front of me.” Beckwith plans to continue her photography project at Renown using a 104-year-old camera that was present during the time of the Spanish Flu of 1918. Her goal is to highlight the remarkable stories of strength, resilience and perseverance that have come from the ashes of the pandemic, as we look towards a hopeful future. “For more than 30 years, art has played an important role at Renown Health,” said Sy Johnson, Chief of Staff at Renown. “Healing is more than getting quality medical care—it’s about the heart, the mind and the spirit. We are proud to bring extraordinary artists like Laura Kimpton, Jeff Schomberg, Anicia Beckwith and others, to find meaningful ways to connect with our patients, employees and community through the universal language of healing arts. Much of the art on our campuses has been made possible by generous artists and donors, who have make a tremendous impact on how our community—and our providers—reflect, engage and heal.”  If you are interested in supporting the Healing Arts Program at Renown Health, a charitable, non-profit health organization, please consider giving to Renown Health Foundation.  Donations are accepted through the following ways: Make a gift at www.renown.org/give Call Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545 Mail a check to Renown Health Foundation, 1155 Mill St., O2, Reno, NV 89502 Venmo: @RenownFoundation     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, 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.

Read More About A One-Year Reflection: Using the Art of Medicine to Heal Amidst a Pandemic