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As the need for Medical Assistants grows, graduating Hug High Health Science Academy senior, Ana Hernandez Rodriguez, starts NHSE sponsored Renown Medical Assistant apprenticeship at TMCC According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Medical Assistants is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The growth of the aging baby-boom population continues to increase demand for preventive medical services here in Nevada and across the country. An increasing number of group medical practices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities also need medical assistants to perform administrative and clinical duties. Medical assistants work mostly in primary care, a steadily growing sector of healthcare. With an eye towards this future, Renown Health proudly accepted its first student, Ana Hernandez Rodriguez, a graduating senior from Procter R. Hug High School’s Health Science Academy CTE program in Washoe County, into its newly created Medical Assistant apprenticeship program. Ana will begin the program as a full-time employee with benefits and start her apprenticeship coursework at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC). Sponsored by the Nevada System for Higher Education (NSHE), Renown’s Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program was approved by the Nevada State Apprenticeship Council, which was overseen by the Governor’s Office of Workforce Innovation (OWINN), in February. The Renown Medical Assistant Apprenticeship is a one-year competency-based program that includes up to 2,000 hours of On-the-Job training and 193 hours of Related Technical Instruction offered through TMCC. All classroom, clinic and work time is paid. Apprentices work under the supervision of a Medical Assistant, Registered Nurse, or medical provider to assist in responsibilities including escorting the patient from the waiting room to the examination room, taking vital signs, stocking supplies, placing and receiving phone calls including appropriate documentation in the Electronic Medical Record, preparing lab specimens for processing, completing the necessary referral forms, obtaining authorizations and keeping records for referrals. Upon completion of the program, apprentices complete the final exam to become a National Certified Medical Assistant. “NSHE is proud to serve as the apprenticeship program sponsor and create more apprenticeship opportunities like this program throughout Nevada,” said Cheryl Olson, NSHE Apprenticeship Navigator and Director of the Nevada Alliance for Youth Apprenticeship. “We welcome Ana as she joins our extraordinary team of healthcare professionals at Renown,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown. “We are always looking to support and invest in the next generation of health professionals to address the health needs of our community. Medical Assistants serve an essential role in physician offices, hospitals and other healthcare facilities performing important administrative and clinical responsibilities and assisting in medical care including greeting patients, recording medical histories and vital signs and helping to coordinate care.” According to the US Department of Labor “Projections Central” the demand for Medical Assistants in Nevada will increase by over 25% by 2028, with over 260 job openings available per year. On the importance of apprenticeship programs like Renown’s Medical Assistant program, NSHE Chancellor Melody Rose said, “The Nevada System of Higher Education is committed to promoting more attainable, affordable, and innovative pathways toward successful careers in fields like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and information technology through apprenticeships. Programs such as the Renown Medical Assistant apprenticeship are changing how we think about accessing higher education and offering true ‘Learn and Earn’ pathways.” Ana’s acceptance into the Medical Assistant apprenticeship program is a proud moment for her soon-to-be alma mater. “Ana has earned this opportunity through hard work and dedication to her studies,” said Melissa Osterhage, who teaches health sciences at Procter Hug High School. “She is a compassionate, caring, and intelligent young woman, and I look forward to seeing everything she will accomplish as she moves forward in a career in the medical field. I couldn’t be more proud of her, and I am grateful she has been awarded this apprenticeship.” Ana graduates from Hug High on June 22 and starts her Medical Assistant apprenticeship program just a few days later on June 29, and is excited for her future. "Being accepted to this opportunity at Renown has been amazing and wonderful. When they told me I was accepted, I was so excited that I cried because I felt so blessed. This is going to help my future in so many ways. It is going to give me the opportunity to work in the medical field. I will start as a Medical Assistant and my goal is to work toward becoming a registered nurse. I took a leap of hope and made it. So, I tell others- believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything in life," she said. Ana is also welcomed to Renown by Michelle Sanchez-Bickley, Chief Human Resources Officer at Renown, who helped coordinate this workforce program. “Healthcare jobs in Nevada represent excellent employment for thousands of Nevadans poised to enter the state’s workforce over the next decade. Opportunities are increasing as we encounter growing demand for health care services at Renown, coupled with population growth, an improving economy, and retirees relocating to the Silver State. Ana and our Medical Assistants are so vital to helping our medical providers care for patients and are critical to the excellent care we provide.” For more information on the next Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program, please email kayla.mcmain@renown.org. To apply for a career opportunity at Renown visit our website.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, local not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,200 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About OWINN OWINN helps drive a skilled, diverse, and aligned workforce in the state of Nevada by promoting cooperation and collaboration among all entities focused on workforce development. Its chief objectives are to prepare all K-12 students for college and career success, increase the number of Nevadans with postsecondary degrees and credentials, and boost employment outcomes in training and credentialing programs. About NSHE The Nevada System of Higher Education, comprised of two doctoral-granting research universities, a state college, four comprehensive community colleges, and one environmental research institute, serves the educational and job training needs of Nevada. NSHE provides educational opportunities to more than 100,000 students and is governed by the Nevada Board of Regents. The System includes the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada State College, Desert Research Institute, the College of Southern Nevada, Great Basin College, Truckee Meadows Community College, and Western Nevada College. About Washoe County School District The Washoe County School District includes the Reno/Sparks metropolitan area, Incline Village, Gerlach, and Wadsworth, Nevada. The District provides each of its 62,000 students with a superior education in a safe and challenging environment and is committed to graduating every child career- and college ready.

Read More About First Student Welcomed to Medical Assistant Program at Renown

Hospital safety grade reflects top national performance on patient safety through COVID pandemic. Renown South Meadows Medical Center in South Reno has earned an “A” Spring 2023 Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group. This national distinction recognizes Renown Health’s achievements in prioritizing patient safety by protecting patients from preventable harm and errors. The Leapfrog Group is an independent, nonprofit, national watchdog organization that upholds the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. It assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country. Grades are based on more than 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, and systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. The new grades primarily reflect performance during the height of the pandemic. “We all play a role in protecting the health and safety of our patients,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Renown Health. “As the only locally governed not-for-profit healthcare network in the region, Renown’s success is shared with our patients and community. We celebrate and thank our physicians, nurses, and caregivers for their continued focus on making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.” “At Renown, safety is the number one priority for everyone that comes through our doors,” said Jen Walker, MSN, RN, Vice President, Quality for Acute Services. "The hard-working staff at each facility, who day in and day out provide the best patient-centered care, also demonstrate clinical expertise, service and compassion. This has helped us achieve well-deserved high ratings across the system.” “We work to ensure that the care that our physicians, nurses and caregivers provide is of the highest quality, and safe, effective, people-centered, timely, equitable and efficient,” said Ross Albright, MD, Medical Director of Quality & Patient Safety, and the South Meadows Medical Center Emergency Department. “High-quality health care helps prevent disease and improve the quality of life. That is truly important to everyone on our team, and we are pleased to be nationally recognized for our efforts.” “Every day, we make choices about where we shop, who we bank with, what cars we drive, and what doctors we see. Yet despite our consumer culture, some people aren't aware they can choose what hospital they go to,” said Bret Frey, MD, President of Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians, a 65-physician group at Renown Health. “Your choice of hospital could be a life-or-death decision. Hospitals vary greatly on things like infection rates, surgical errors or patient injuries—and choosing to receive treatment by Board-Certified physicians, ER wait times, patient satisfaction rates, and other measures are important for consumers to know and consider when choosing an ER and a hospital.” “The Leapfrog ratings reflect the staff and system’s commitment to providing the highest quality of care for patients,” said Susan Lee, DO, MBA, Chief Operations Officer, Renown South Meadows. “Earning ‘A’ ratings showcases the commitment both physicians and staff demonstrate every day. We are proud to continue to deliver the best care possible to every patient.” “I applaud the hospital leadership and workforce for their strong commitment to safety and transparency,” says Leah Binder, President and CEO, The Leapfrog Group. “An ‘A’ Safety Grade is a sign that hospitals are continuously evaluating their performance so that they can best protect patients. Your team should be extremely proud of their dedication and achievement.” Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public. Renown South Meadows also received a Leapfrog A score in Fall 2021 and Spring 2020. Renown Regional Medical Center received a B score for Spring 2023. For more information on the Leapfrog Group and the Spring 2023 scores, please visit: hospitalsafetyscore.org. About The Leapfrog Group Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps for patient safety. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey reports hospital performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, Leapfrog’s other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents and infections. 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

Read More About Renown South Meadows Medical Center Earns 'A' for Patient Safety

Only hospital in northern Nevada to receive national recognition for patient safety and quality Renown South Meadows Medical Center in south Reno has earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit watchdog organization that serves as a voice for health care consumers and purchasers, using their collective influence to foster positive change in U.S. health care. Leapfrog is the nation’s premier advocate of transparency in health care—collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data to inform value-based purchasing and improved decision-making. This national distinction recognizes Renown Health’s national accomplishments in ensuring safe, high-quality hospital care for patients. The Leapfrog Group is an independent, nonprofit organization that upholds the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries, and infections as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.  Leapfrog sets their standards using peer reviewed literature and expert opinion, peer comparisons, and alignment with existing national standards or performance targets. “We are very proud to recognize physicians, nurses, clinicians and the entire team at Renown South Meadows Medical Center for achieving exceptional Leapfrog performance in Patient-Centered Care, Critical Care, Nursing and Bedside Care for Patients, Patient Safety, Medication Safety, and Care for Total Joint Replacement and Elective Outpatient Surgery Patients,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Renown Health. “As the only locally governed not-for-profit academic healthcare network in the region, Renown’s success is shared with our patients and community. We celebrate and thank our physicians, nurses, and caregivers for their continued dedication to making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.” “Everyone who works at Renown South Meadows Medical Center should be proud of this ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade,” said Leah Binder, president, and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “It takes complete dedication at every level, and an ironclad commitment to putting patients first. I thank Renown South Meadows Medical Center’s leadership, clinicians, staff, and volunteers for caring so deeply for patients and their safety.” “We are proud of our affiliated physicians and teams who give their best every day, to ensure that every patient’s care and safety is their top priority,” said Sam Weller, MHPA, CEO, Renown South Meadows Medical Center. “We recognize that when you choose a hospital, you could be making a life-or-death decision. Not every hospital is the same. Performance on things like infection rates, surgical errors, or patient injuries varies considerably—and matters greatly. It’s important for consumers to know and consider these things when choosing what physicians, hospital, or Emergency Room to select for their care. We are very excited to be recognized as the only hospital to achieve this designation in northern Nevada, and only one of two in the state (the other being in Las Vegas).”   To see Renown South Meadows Medical Center’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) and via The Leapfrog Group newsletter.   The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public. Renown Regional Medical Center received a B score for Fall & Spring 2023. For more information on the Leapfrog Group and the Spring 2023 scores, please visit: hospitalsafetyscore.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,400 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.  About The Leapfrog Group Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps for patient safety. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey and Leapfrog Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Survey collect and transparently report hospital and ASC performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, Leapfrog's other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents and infections. For more, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram and sign up for our newsletter.

Read More About Renown South Meadows Medical Center Earns Highest "A" Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group

Most Wired Hospitals Use Technology to Deliver Better Patient Care & Experience. The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has released their coveted Digital Health Most Wired Survey results for 2022, recognizing Renown Health with Most Wired status. Among the more than 38,000 organizations surveyed by CHIME, Renown Health ranked above peers in categories like analytics and data management, population health, infrastructure and patient engagement. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. Renown Health earned a Most Wired level 7 (of 10) achievement for use of technology for better patient care and patient experience in both CHIME’s acute and ambulatory surveys. This is Renown’s sixth consecutive year on CHIME’s Most Wired list, and Renown is the only healthcare organization in Nevada recognized with this prestigious award. “New and emerging technologies have transformed healthcare in recent years,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are proud that our physicians, nurses, clinicians, and employees continue to be nationally recognized for their efforts to implement clinical systems and digital health tools to improve care for patients. Improving care through advances in technology and IT systems allows us to realize meaningful outcomes including increasing patient access to healthcare services, improving patient experience, and reducing costs across the entire system.” “To care for all those we serve, Renown’s IT team has open discussions and collaboration with care providers to think creatively and strategically about how to deploy advanced technologies that enable the best clinical outcomes for our patients,” says Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer, Renown Health. “Renown’s proactive approach to technology supports our mission– and is one of the many elements that set our organization apart. We are honored by CHIME’s recognition of our teams and processes to better care for patients.” “When clinicians have instant access to the information that they need to make care decisions; patients benefit,” says Sarah Kramer, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer, Renown Health. “Our technology investments include a single, unified electronic medical record system that spans all major hospital areas including inpatient, outpatient, emergency, intensive care, and surgical units. Having a single digital electronic medical record for our patients makes it possible for an entire team of clinicians across the continuum of care able to review a patient’s chart without needing to request that a physical chart be transported to them, which can take time and resources and sometimes delay care decisions. Our automated medical record system allows the right information to flow to our clinicians when and where they need it, ensuring safe and effective care. Patients also have ready access to all their medical information through the MyChart ® smartphone app, and are able to self-schedule for mammograms and lab appointments, message their primary care providers and refill medications as needed.” “The medical record is not the only area that benefits from an infusion of health IT,” says Melanie Morris, MSN, RN, Director of the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC). “Renown is pleased to serve as a model of coordinated patient care for the nation. Similar to how air traffic controllers manage traffic in and out of airports, the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC) team sees a birds-eye view of what’s happening with patients across our entire integrated delivery system. Having access to real-time information is critical because every action we take is tied to improving the health and well-being of our patients. Time and accuracy are always of the essence, and this Center drastically improves the efficiency of the entire Renown Health system.” Success in digital health increasingly determines the quality of patient care, and the scope of the CHIME Digital Health Most Wired survey reflects the progress of leading healthcare providers as they reinvent healthcare for a new century. The survey and recognition program serves as a comprehensive digital health checkup for healthcare organizations worldwide. “We are proud to honor your team’s exceptional dedication to excellence in digital health,” said Russell P. Branzell President and CEO, CHIME. “Your pioneering performance in the industry inspires other organizations by example. Patients in communities around the world receive better care when you drive change through digital transformation, as you have proven through your success in this rigorous program.” About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada's largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children's hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.  About CHIME The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), chief digital officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With more than 5,000 members in 58 countries plus two U.S. territories and over 190 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME and its three associations provide a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate, exchange best practices, address professional development needs, and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org.

Read More About Renown Health Honored with 2022 Digital Health Most Wired Award

Renown Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Anna Loomis, MBA, as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective July 1, 2024. Ms. Loomis will oversee all aspects of financial management for Renown Health including budgeting, financial planning, revenue cycle management, supply chain and strategic investments for Nevada’s #1 ranked health care organization.    Before joining Renown, Ms. Loomis served as Senior Vice President (SVP) and CFO with Portland-based Legacy Health, and prior to that as SVP and Chief Financial Officer for Washington-based MultiCare for more than 15 years.  With over 20 years in finance leadership and strategy, Ms. Loomis has led several transformative efforts to strengthen the organizations and build partnerships.    “We are thrilled to welcome Anna Loomis to our executive team,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “Anna is an approachable, innovative, and resilient leader. Her proven track record of financial stewardship and her deep understanding of the complexities of the healthcare landscape make her an ideal fit for the team. The essential role that Renown Health plays as the only local, not-for-profit, charitable healthcare network in Washoe County will be furthered by her commitment. We are confident that with her guidance and expertise, we will continue to strengthen our financial position while advancing our mission to deliver the highest quality care and service to patients.”    Anna earned her master’s and bachelor’s degree in business administration from Pacific Lutheran University (Tacoma, WA); completed a finance fellowship with The Academy GE Fellows Program and serves on the Board of Directors for PacificSource health plans.   As of Aug. 2023, Fitch Ratings affirmed the 'A+' long-term rating on the series 2020A, 2020B, 2015A and 2016A bonds issued on behalf of Renown Health, NV by Public Finance Authority (Renown Regional Medical Center Project). In addition, Fitch has affirmed Renown's IDR at 'A+'. Renown's 'A+' revenue bond ratings and the Outlook revision to Stable are primarily driven by the system's midrange operating risk profile assessment, which has rebounded significantly over the past 12-months. Both the rating and Stable Outlook incorporate Renown's position as the service area's single largest provider of high-end acute care services and maintenance of the leading market position, with approximately two-thirds of all patients in northern Nevada seeking care at Renown. The rating is further informed by Renown's solid balance sheet metrics, which remain intact at or near historical levels. Given significant consumer demand for Renown providers and services, a master facility planning process and strategic planning process has been undertaken to ensure that Renown has adequate bed and procedure capacity, spaces to accommodate new technology and services to meet the needs of a growing patient base and community. As the region’s only Level 2 Trauma Center for both adults and children, Renown serves over 1 million people and 100,000 square miles across Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center has been named #1 in the State of Nevada for the last three years.   Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,200 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Appoints Anna Loomis MBA As Chief Financial Officer

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

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

During National Healthcare Week, clinical providers who are “Best of the Best” being honored for demonstrating exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by you, their patients. “Amazing! Phenomenal! Thank you for always showing genuine concern. You are kind, considerate and caring. You are interested in me. You are the best doctor/nurse practitioner I have ever had. I trust you with my life. You act on things right away. You are awesome. You have saved my life, and my family. You are knowledgeable, thorough, intelligent, and compassionate. You are my favorite. You are my angel. You have made me better. You always make me feel like a success, even if I could have tried harder. I love you. I thank you.” These are some of the comments made by patients regarding their doctors and advanced practice providers who will be honored next week by the Patient & Family Advisory Council and Renown Health with a special breakfast celebration in south Reno. In honor of National Healthcare Week, Renown Medical Group, which offers primary and specialty care at locations in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Fallon, Fernley, and Silver Springs will honor 37 physicians and advanced practice providers at the Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award Celebration. This annual award, supported by the Renown Health Foundation and a donor family, honors clinicians who demonstrate exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by their patients. Recipients of this award are ranked in the top ten percent nationally in provider communication for 2022, as measured by over 11 thousand patients who responded nationally to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CG-CAPHS) or Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems and over 14,000 local patients who gave them top scores on the national patient experience survey. Patients were asked if their medical providers explained things in a way they could understand; if they listened carefully; if they showed respect for what they had to say; if they spent enough time with them; if they read their medical records; if they ordered tests and followed up with them on their results; and to give them a rating on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 was the highest score. “These incredible medical providers set the gold standard for excellent communications with patients, scoring in the top 10% nationally for compassion, caring, competency and communications,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are extremely proud of them and their outstanding dedication to patients, families and our community.” The awards will be given by his family in remembrance of the late Dr. John W. Spellman, human rights advocate, scholar and professor. Dr. Spellman treasured kindness, scholarship, debate and medical providers who demonstrated exceptional communications skills and held their patients in the highest regard. The Recipients of the 2022 Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award are: Christina Alsop, DNP, AOCNP, Oncology Nurse Practitioner, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Pamela Burgio, APRN, Renown Primary Care Jennifer Brown, APRN, Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Stephanie Carlesen, DNP, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Carolyn Dennehey, MD, Rheumatology Benjamin Ebner, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Christopher Driscoll, MD, Pediatrics, Renown Children’s Hospital Kerac Falk, MD, FACOG, Renown Women’s Health Michael Hardacre, MD, Radiation Oncology, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Robin Hollen, DNP, FNP-C, APRN, M.Ed., MSN, Breastfeeding Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Renown Women’s Health James Martin Johnston, MD, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Renown Children’s Hospital Stephanie Jones, DO, Physical Medicine/Rehabilitation Charlotte Kermode, APRN, Renown Primary Care Michele Kiser, MD, Renown Primary Care Matthew Klippenstein, MD, Renown Primary Care Anamarie Manea, MD, Pediatric Endocrinology, Renown Children’s Hospital Marie McCoramck, MD, Renown Primary Care Catherine Mindeguia, APRN, Renown Primary Care Dean Miyagawa, MD, Internal Medicine, Renown Primary Care Amanda Morgan, MD, Pulmonary Medicine, Renown Medical Group Cecelia O’Dowd, MD, Renown Primary Care Kasie Reynolds, APRN, Renown Children's Hospital, Behavioral Health Jocelyn Schneider, APRN, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Vanessa Slots, MD, Renown Pediatrics Daniel Spogen, MD, Renown UNR Primary Care, Sports Medicine Jennifer Simcox, APRN, Renown Primary Care Mark Stovak, MD, Renown UNR Primary Care, Sports Medicine Shining Sun, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Jennifer Sutton, MD, Radiation Oncology, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Robert Swackhamer, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Carl Thomas, MD, Renown Primary Care Katherine Thyssen, DO, Geriatric Medicine, Renown Primary Care Ly Vu, MD, Renown Primary Care Scott Michael Wallace, MD, Renown Pediatrics Kristin Wilson, MD, Renown Pediatrics Bryan Young MD, Internal Medicine, Renown Primary Care Jacob Zucker, MD, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Renown Children’s Hospital   Since 2018, Renown Medical Group has posted thousands of verified patient ratings and comments of their employed providers online and viewable by the public at renown.org. “Our goal is to consistently exceed customer expectations, every day, and with every encounter. At Renown, we embrace transparency and empower patients,” says Rahul Mediwala, MD, CEO of Renown Medical Group. Dr. Mediwala should know – he is also a highly rated physician by his patients, has practiced for more than 20 years, and sees the ratings program as another way to support employed physicians and providers at Renown Health. Only patients who’ve had an outpatient visit with a Renown Medical Group provider may be selected to receive a survey from CH-CAHPS. This way, Renown can confirm the results are from patients who have been seen by the provider. All comments are posted anonymously, and patients are asked for their permission to use their comments. Feedback is shared with every provider. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. Almost 700 Renown Medical Group primary care and specialty providers are currently accepting new patients and accept most health insurance plans, including Renown’s not-for-profit insurance plan, Hometown Health. To find the doctor or provider that is best for you visit renown.org, self-schedule with your established provider at MyChart.Renown.org or schedule an appointment with a Renown Medical Group or University Health provider by calling our agents available by phone- Wed-Fri: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat-Sun: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at 775-982-5000. Renown Health is currently hiring in all areas. Search for a new career opportunity and apply online at careers.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

Read More About Reno Home to 37 of the Nation's Best Patient Communicators

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

Protect yourself by obtaining a vaccination against COVID-19 and the Delta strain if you are 12 years or older; seek urgent care if needed The world, the country and our area continue to experience an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations with the highly contagious Delta SARS-CoV-2 virus strain. The Renown Health team continues to safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illnesses, including those at risk for COVID-19. Renown continues to use current local and national data, analytics, and public data sets for predictive modeling in service to our community. Renown Health ensures constant readiness by working closely with the Washoe County Health District, the Governor’s office, and is informed by updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When there is heightened concern around an illness, we implement enhanced infection prevention strategies to ensure we are ready with the appropriate supplies and alternate plans should the need arise. Renown Health providers are educated and prepared to quickly and safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illness, including COVID-19. Vaccination is the best protection against Delta. “The most important action you can take to protect yourself from the Delta strain and the COVID-19 virus is to get fully vaccinated,” says Brion Hill, MD who practices at the Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location. “The COVID 19 virus and Delta strain is preventable and controllable through safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, which are free and now widely available in our area. The CDC recommends all people 12 years and older be vaccinated against COVID-19. Recent data show that nearly all COVID-19 deaths are now occurring among unvaccinated individuals.” A list of providers in our area offering vaccines is available at vaccines.gov.” Protecting Yourself, Friends and Family Dr. Hill adds, “You can protect yourself the same way you would protect against other viruses with a few common-sense practices.” Wear a cloth mask or medical procedure mask when in a public setting. For situations when you are in close contact with people who do not live with you, you may want to consider a mask option that provides a higher level of protection (improved fit and/or improved filtration). Wash your hands thoroughly and often. Make sure you are cleaning between your fingers and under your nails. Use alcohol-based sanitizers when soap and water are not available. Use disposable tissues when coughing and sneezing; dispose of carefully and promptly. If tissues are not available, direct your cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm/sleeve. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms. Avoid shaking hands, especially with those who appear to be ill. Disinfect shared surfaces. Practice social distancing, 6 feet or more. Stay home when you are sick. If you have fever, cough, gastrointestinal, or respiratory symptoms please call your medical provider and explain your symptoms before coming in to their offices. If you do not have a health care provider, and have medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, visit a Renown Urgent Care physician or healthcare provider. Virtual Urgent Care is available for people for COVID-19 symptoms and Virtual Urgent Care visits are available through MyChart. MyChart is a free, secure online patient portal that allows you to access your Renown Health medical record and manage your health care information. There are 11 conveniently located Renown Urgent Care offices with providers ready to see you 7 days a week. You have the option to book ahead and schedule an appointment at 11 locations near you. How to Get Accurate and Reliable Information: We continue to advise our community regarding the importance of accurate sources of information, and to provide regular updates. For up-to-date information on Renown’s approach to keeping our community safe, visit our website at renown.org.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, the region’s only children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improving the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Fighting for Your Health and Safety; As COVID-19 Cases Rise, Renown is Prepared

“Amazing! Phenomenal! Thank you for always showing genuine concern. You are kind, considerate and caring. You are interested in me. You are the best doctor I have ever had. I trust you with my life. You act on things, right away. You are awesome. You have saved my life, and my family. You are knowledgeable, thorough, intelligent and compassionate. You are my favorite. You are my angel baby. You have made me better. You always make me feel like a success, even if I could have tried harder. I love you. I thank you.” These are some of the comments made by patients regarding their doctors and advanced practice providers honored this morning by Sy Johnson, President and Chief of Staff for Renown Health. In honor of Healthcare Week, Renown Medical Group, the largest medical practice in northern Nevada, honored 46 physicians and advanced practice providers at the Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award Celebration. This new annual award, supported by the Renown Health Foundation charitable organization and a donor family, honors physicians and advanced practice providers who demonstrate exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by their patients. Recipients of this award are ranked in the top ten percent nationally in provider communication for 2021, as measured by over 11 thousand patients who responded to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CG-CAPHS) or Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems patient experience survey between October 2020 and June 2021. Patients were asked if their medical providers explained things in a way they could understand; if they listened carefully; if they showed respect for what they had to say; if they spent enough time with them; if they read their medical records; if they ordered tests and followed up with them on their results; and to give them a rating on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 was the highest score. “As honorees, your patients have given you a 10, an A+ and you set the gold standard for excellent communications with patients-scoring in the top 10% nationally,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Renown Medical Group. “I love what I do, and it’s wonderful to know that my patients appreciate the care I provide,” said Christina Alsop, DNP, one of the providers honored today. The awards were given in remembrance of Dr. John W. Spellman, human rights advocate, scholar and professor, 7/27/1934 to 6/25/2021 by his family. The Recipients of the 2021 Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award are: Alsop, Christina Barangan, Caroline J. Basho, Shruti Bloch, Melissa P Bryan, Janice K. Budhecha, Sonia Burgio, Pamela A. Cavin, Lisa C. Dimpel, Ashley J. Dorsa, Denise J. Galanopoulos, Christos A. Galdo, Bella B. Grudzinski, Courtney Dianne Hansen, Benjamin Hardacre, Michael C. Healy, Sara Anne Kermode, Charlotte A. Kiser, Michele J. Klippenstein, Matthew Landis, Philip H. May, Whitney Medina, Mary Beth E. Mindeguia, Catherine E. Miyagawa, Dean Moore, Willa F. Morris, Katelyn Morton, Lillian Nielsen, Lorri Nylk, Janina Park, Susan J. Patel, Bejal Powers, Cindy M. Roumanas, Athan Safdi, Adam Sandefur, Lauren L. Schnell Blitstein, Jamie M. Silverhart, Julie A. Stodtmeister, Russell T. Sutton, Jennifer B. Tay, Jennifer Thyssen, Katherine A. Wagner, Karen Wiese, Matthew C. Wilson, Kristin L, Zucker, Jacob P. Patients served include those at Renown Regional Medical Center, the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, and #1 Hospital in the State of Nevada in U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings for 2021. Physicians and providers also provide services to patients at Renown South Meadows Medical Center, named #1 Best Hospital for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report; and to patients at RenownRehabilitation Hospital, northern Nevada’s only Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)- accredited hospital, specializing in the treatment of brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. Almost 700 Renown Medical Group primary care and specialty providers are currently accepting new patients and accept most health insurance plans, including Renown’s not-for-profit insurance plan, Hometown Health. To find the doctor or provider that is best for you visit renown.org, or self schedule with your established provider at MyChart or call the Renown Customer Engagement Center at 775-982-4100. Renown Health is currently hiring in all areas. Search for a new career opportunity and apply online at careers.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. 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 Honoring Excellence in Patient Communications

To offer best-in-class dining, hospital food you can get excited about and custodial services at all 4 hospitals this summer Renown Health announces a partnership with Sodexo, an international leader in hospitality, food services and facilities management, to bring best-in-class dining and custodial services to all four of its hospitals this summer. Current Food & Nutrition Services and Environmental Services staff have been offered first priority employment with Sodexo. No jobs are being eliminated as part of this transition. Renown Health and Sodexo are collaborating to provide all 27 6 Food & Nutrition and Environmental Services Associates with an opportunity to become Sodexo Associates. Renown Associates transitioning to Sodexo will maintain their current rate of pay and years of service. “Food is love. Here at Renown, we are on a mission to provide delicious food to our patients as they battle and recover from illness and injury in our hospitals,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Renown Health. “A delicious, nutritious meal is fundamental to a fantastic patient and caregiver experience. We are excited to be partnering with Sodexo to manage Food & Nutrition Services and Environmental Services for Renown Regional Medical Center, Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, Renown South Meadows Medical Center, and Renown Children’s Hospital beginning July 15, 2023. The Sodexo team’s commitment to quality, sourcing from local businesses and farmers, and excellence in customer service will be a game-changer for patients, families, and the Renown community.” “At Renown Health, our people are the cornerstone of our care and service. This is yet another step we are taking to elevate the patient and employee experience to fulfill our mission to the communities we serve,” said Chris Nicholas, MHA, FACHE, CEO for Renown Regional Medical Center. “In Sodexo we have a partner whose culture and values align with ours. They also share a commitment to increase Associate training, engagement, and career ladders. They have a strong record of improving patient safety and experience.” "We are excited to build a cohesive, specialized team to bring together the strength of our two cultures. Sodexo is internationally recognized for their investment in people, training, customer service, including use of new technology to improve care and service; standardization of processes, tracking and reporting,” said Amy McCombs, RN, Chief Operations Officer for Renown Regional Medical Center. “We chose Sodexo because of their people-first commitment and how they align with the mission and values of Renown Health. They have demonstrated substantial commitment to employee development, engagement, and career growth; a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and a commitment to sustainability and sourcing from local businesses and farmers.” After July 15, the new Sodexo team will be building a new menu program for patients, presenting a new look and feel to the dining space, adding technology options including mobile ordering options, expanding menu options in hospital cafeterias, and developing new, healthier meals. Sodexo’s on-site team will consist of a general manager, an executive chef, and a catering manager, with the support of a regional registered dietitian. Working alongside a group of chefs and other food service workers, the team will deliver authentic, global flavors, comfort foods, and a world-class program for patients with allergies and dietary restrictions. Sodexo will also oversee Renown hospital custodial services. In support of the overall transformation of the campus’ infrastructure, Sodexo will implement technology systems to maximize Renown’s facilities. “Sodexo is excited to partner with Renown Health to deliver new value and customized care experiences,” said Stuart Winters, CEO Sodexo Healthcare U.S. “We are committed to integrating with Renown Health to deliver solutions that impact health outcomes and enhance the lives of care teams, patients and families.” Renown Health leaders are holding in-person meetings with Food & Nutrition Services employees and Environmental Services employees this week to introduce them to the Sodexo management team and learn more about the transition. About Sodexo Sodexo North America is part of a global, Fortune 500 company with a presence in 53 countries. Sodexo specializes in sustainable food and valued experiences at every moment in life: learn, work, heal and play. The company employs 94,000 people at thousands of sites in all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam, and indirectly supports more than 100,000 additional jobs through its annual purchases of $20B in goods and services from small to large businesses. Routinely recognized for the organization’s commitments to sustainability as well as diversity, equity and inclusion, Sodexo North America’s purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. 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.

Read More About Renown Health Partners with Sodexo, International Leader in Food & Hospitality