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As Community Covid-19 Cases Rise, Renown Has Capacity; Prepared And Ready To Serve
Renown team is prepared and ready to serve the community with staff, technology, supplies, equipment and remote patient monitoring services to meet needs and assure the highest quality care and safety. Many parts of the country and Nevada are seeing increases in COVID-19 cases and patients hospitalized with both the Delta and the new Omicron variant. As Nevadans experience the impact of the pandemic, the Renown Health team continues to be prepared to serve the community with staff, technology, supplies, equipment and services in place to meet the needs of patients and assure the safety of Renown's care teams. The Renown Health team ensures constant readiness and continues to safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illnesses, including those at risk for COVID-19. Renown Health continues to have capacity to accept patients at all 11 Urgent Care locations, Renown's three Emergency Departments, including the Children's ER at Renown Regional Medical Center and the Emergency Department at Renown South Meadows Medical Centers. There is capacity if needed for additional patients on Renown's three Intensive Care Units or ICUs, and Renown hospitals continue to operate a full surgery schedule. "Every community member can feel confident that Renown has a trained team of physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, medical assistants, care managers and physical and occupational therapists around the clock, every day to ensure that, no matter the illness or injury, every patient will be treated with compassion and the appropriate degree of care," says Susan Lee, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Acute Services. "News about the COVID-19 may be making you feel anxious about going to the emergency room (ER) or getting the medical care you need," said Bret W. Frey, MD, emergency medicine physician at Renown. "Please remember it's important to seek emergency care if you have serious non-COVID-19 symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms. Delaying care for a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke, can be life threatening or lead to serious complications. We are here for you around the clock and have taken all precautions to be sure that visits to the ER and hospital are as safe as possible." He reminds us, "Emergency departments are experiencing large numbers of patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms. Please do not visit the emergency department if you are experiencing non-life threatening symptoms including a sore throat or cough. Consider these options to get the care you need; use Renown's MyChart "Talk to a Doctor" for a virtual visit, obtain free COVID-19 screening and testing through the Washoe County Health District, or contact Renown at 775-982-5000 to make an appointment with a primary care provider." Renown Uses Analytics and Predictive Modeling in Service to the Community Renown continues to use current local and national data, analytics and public data sets for predictive modeling in service to our community. When there is heightened concern around an illness, enhanced infection prevention strategies are in place to ensure Renown is ready with the appropriate supplies and alternate plans should the need arise. Renown medical experts report the following information this week: 1. Cases in Washoe County have started climbing. It appears the Omicron wave has started in northern Nevada. The good news is that studies continue to show that vaccines and previous infection still provide people with protection from severe disease. Predictive analytics at Renown show that the Omicron wave is expected to peak in northern Nevada sometime between January 10 and February 10. 2. Data continues to mount that Omicron infections are much less severe than previous variants. The Renown team is preparing to see an increase in hospitalized patients, but at a far lower rate than during previous surges. 3. Today, new patient hospital admissions to Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center for patients with COVID-19 are low. Today, of the 501 patients hospitalized at Renown, less than 9% or 43 patients are hospitalized with COVID-19. This may change at any time and medical experts and scientists at Renown will continue to monitor data on a daily basis. Renown Offers State-of-the-Art Remote Patient Monitoring to Enhance Patient-Centered Model of Care Renown continues to enact the emergency preparedness plans that have been in place since the beginning of the pandemic, creating additional capacity for inpatients while allowing Renown to continue to deliver high-quality care. Renown now has state-of-the-art clinical remote monitoring services to serve additional patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who are clinically stable or improving. Remote patient monitoring is now being visualized and monitored by clinical staff within the new Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC). The Transfer and Operations Center is powered by Renown doctors, nurses, technicians and national technology partners help ensure seamless care for patients and providers. Through this highly coordinated care logistics system, Renown is able to customize health care to the needs of every patient; delivering the right care, at the right time and place across the integrated delivery system. Renown clinicians are able to access near real-time information on patients' vital signs and symptoms, enabling them to identify adverse changes in health sooner and intervene earlier. "We are excited to continue to enhance our relationships with patients by integrating technology that supplements our care teams to provide patients with a virtual care solution that continuously tracks vital signs, making healthcare more accessible, affordable and convenient," said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, president and CEO, Renown Health. Patients and their loved ones have said they have greater confidence and security knowing that our clinical team is closely monitoring their health data and communicating regularly to deliver high quality, personalized care." Renown Continues to Welcome Patient Supporters at the Hospital Bedside Renown Health continues welcome two patient supporters to visit their loved ones during their medical visit, surgery, birthing or hospital stay. Renown continues to have extra safety measures in place to protect the health of patients, visitors and healthcare employees. All people entering Renown sites must continue bringing and wearing a face mask for their entire visit, including inside patient rooms. "Visiting the hospital can be an anxious experience," says c. "It's incredible how the company of loved ones can reduce anxiety and promote healing. What we can do together with families to support patient care and excellent outcomes is greater than what any of us can do alone. We are glad to welcome patient supporters to our hospitals to help our patients feel more at ease, so they can focus on their recovery, health and healing." In addition to in-person visits, there are many ways to brighten the day of a patient at Renown hospitals. You can send a personalized message that will be hand-delivered to your loved one, call 775-982-4100 to speak with a patient, or Renown's care team can facilitate virtual visits via computer or tablet from the bedside. Please note that Renown Health reserves the right to limit visitors in the best interests of patients, families, visitors or staff. The Best Protection Remains Vaccination At this time, the medical experts at Renown remind us that vaccination is still the best protection against Omicron and COVID-19, and Renown providers and hospitals have full capacity to care for those who are sick or injured. "The most important action you can take to protect yourself from the Delta and Omicron strains and the COVID-19 virus is to get fully vaccinated," says Brion Hill, MD who practices at Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location. "The COVID-19 virus and its related strains are 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 5 years and older be vaccinated against COVID-19. Data shows 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." Renown Hospitals #1 in State of Nevada In the most recent U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed the #1 hospital in the State of Nevada. Last year, Renown South Meadows Medical Center was named the #1 Best Hospital in Nevada. A hospital's score is based on multiple data categories, including patient outcomes, safety and volumes. Hospitals earning a high performing rating were significantly better than the national average. Renown Regional Medical Center has also been awarded the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval® for Hospital Accreditation based on compliance with hospital standards related to emergency management, environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management. Renown's Roseview, Sierra and Cardiac Intensive Care Units have each been awarded a Beacon Award of Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) based on patient outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. Renown has the only intensive care units awarded this distinction in Nevada. Stay Up-to-date on COVID-19 To stay up-to-date on communications regarding Renown's preparation for COVID-19, FAQs and the scientific evidence behind the vaccine, visit https://covid.renown.org/ Join the Renown team Renown Health remains committed to 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 https://careers.renown.org/ Support the Renown team Renown Health, a charitable, not-for-profit organization, is so grateful for our community's support during these unprecedented times. If you are interested in supporting 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. 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 As Community Covid-19 Cases Rise, Renown Has Capacity; Prepared And Ready To Serve
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Bursting with Ride! The Oldest Hospital in Nevada Donates a Historic Heirloom to Recognize 160 Years of Healthcare and Emergency Medical Services in Northern Nevada
Delighted to Partner to Preserve History at TripAdvisor® #1 Museum & #1 Thing to Do in Reno (Taking License with a Pun-ny Report) You know full wheel that Reno, NV is best in gas for vintage vehicles, antique autos and classic cars. Technophilic motorheads cruise in from gear and far for the experience, style and craftsmanship of these timeless treasures at the Hot August Nights® show, and the Nevada Day Parade. Many patients and families have reported losing their bearings after seeing the “Ghostbuster-Like ambulance” at Renown’s Regional Medical Center. This week, Renown Health employees were auto-ly delighted to donate a historic heirloom, a rare 1949 Superior Cadillac Ambulance to the National Automobile Museum in Reno. Yes, a car is reborn! In ignition, the vintage auto will be added to the museum’s collection, keeping the ambulance which had last been in service in Clark County, fuel circle and back to its gas roots. Despite the health system being known for intensive car and stroke, it set tongues wagon for a hospital to own such a radical roadster. Renown was aheadlight of their time, thanks to a tank of Renown employees, who on a rim in 1987, suggested that they would door to be different with this differential of the medical center’s long-standing commitment to emergency care, health and wheelness. A six-month search ended in January 1988 when this curious clunker was found in Tecopa, CA, near Death Valley. It was love at first light from the northern Nevada community, and through their tireless efforts, a team transformed the wrecker into a classic showpiece for what was then called Washoe Medical Center. The classic car was named the White Knight, showcased each year at employee appreciation events and driven in parades. In 2011, employees turned up the seat by adding purple cushions and door decals for Renown’s 150 birthday celebration. However, driving the 1949 love buggy without power steering, brakes or seat belts became a motor of life and death and inceasingly unsafe. To stay on the safe ride, the ambulance received an honorable suspension and sat in tire straits for the last six years in the Regional Medical Center garage. On a recent road trip to the hospital, Phil MacDougall, National Automobile Museum president and executive director, beamed when he saw the nostalgic medical rescue wagon. On a rim, he rolled over to the Renown team and recalled, “there’s always vroom for one more classic coupe in the National Automobile Museum!” Dr. Brian Erling, the president and CEO of Renown thought it was a wheely good idea and gave the o-key. But it wasn’t a slam trunk. It was a spoiler. Why? I hate to brake it to you but the rarified rambler wouldn’t start! Everything grinded to asphalt. Were the connection cables corroded? Was it an arrested alternator? A faulty fuse? Finite fossil fuel? A highly polished team of Renown mechanics and engineers shifted into gear to repair the roadster. Lighting quick, Michelle propelled the pit crew into action. With not a minute to spare, Kevin Maes and Alex Cardenas, diagnosed the dinosaur. Ably assisted by director of facilities, Chris Baker and via phone by retired auto aficionado Larry T, the technical team got fired up when they found the amps had stopped cranking in the bygone battery. The auto alliance throttled up the moving machine and the team showed and shined! The victorious champions drove the dusty vintage vehicle out of the Renown Regional garage, into a flashy flatbed and all the highway to the National Automobile Museum at the corner of Lake and Mill Streets in downtown Reno. The finishing clutch was that the winsome wagon will now join the museum’s collection of more than 200 classics. What’s the road ahead? It may be converted to the Ghostbuster ambulance, and join the many eye-popping cars housed at the National Automobile Museum which have been seen in movies and TV shows such as; Titanic, Rebel without a Cause, Batman & Robin, Back to the Future, Herbie and more! Proving it is never to light to start up a new partnership! History of Washoe County Hospital (now Renown) and the 1949 Superior Cadillac Ambulance The community established the Washoe clinic in 1862 (which later became Washoe County Hospital), during a smallpox outbreak to treat the sick during the Civil War and Comstock Lode silver boom. Washoe County Hospital opened in 1864, the same year Nevada became a state. Almost a century later, the newly minted 1949 Superior Cadillac Ambulance rolled off an assembly line in Detroit. Harry S. Truman geared up for his term as the 33rd President of the United States. Penicillin and other antibiotics saved millions from smallpox, tuberculosis, polio, whooping cough, tetanus, and malaria; and in 1949, Washoe County Hospital opened its first pediatrics unit. “We are proud to be the region’s leader in emergency care and trauma services, and as part of Renown, to have served the emergency medicine needs of our community for 160 years,” says Bret Frey, MD of Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians. “Renown is the only integrated health network with three Emergency Rooms and the area’s only trauma center. Our board-certified ER physicians offer treatment options not found anywhere else in the region, and patients are guaranteed that with our physician-only group, you will see an experienced physician in our ERs. Our emergency services are available 24/7, we are an accredited Chest Pain Center and Stroke Center, and we know how to quickly get you the care you need.” Renown Health is home to three 24/7 Emergency Rooms that provide the highest level of emergency and trauma care in the region: Renown Regional Medical Center is the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City. Located near downtown Reno, this Emergency Room has several helipads and ambulance banks to intake patients requiring emergency care. Renown Children’s Hospital is home to only Emergency Room in the region designed just for pediatric patients. This location is staffed by Board-certified emergency physicians, pediatric specialists and provides child-sized equipment and family-friendly waiting areas. Renown South Meadows Medical Center includes South Reno’s first 24/7 Emergency Room. Located just off of I-580, this location is designed to treat patients who need immediate attention for emergencies. Remember if you are experiencing a life-threatening symptom or injury, signs of stroke or heart attack, immediately call 911. These locations are designed to assess and care for emergency situations, including heart attack symptoms, stroke symptoms, broken bones, shortness of breath, seizures, severe bleeding, head injuries, chest pains, severe pain, venomous stings and bites, choking or poisoning. All of Renown’s Emergency Rooms are staffed by Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians, including pediatric specialists and physicians who have completed fellowship training in specialty areas such as sports medicine, ultrasound and emergency medical services. The Greatest Era of Cars During World War II, a crew of GM designers fused airplane design elements into the 1949 post-war styling of the Superior Cadillac, igniting the Greatest Era of Cars and propelling post-war American automotive exuberance and luxury. The car’s curved windshield is nostalgic of an airplane cockpit, it’s roof and pontoon fender lines curvaceously beautiful from every angle. The ambulance was built on a 1948 chassis, features a fully shiftless Hydra-Matric Drive automatic transmission, and a high compression V-8, 150 horsepower engine that, combined with revised axle ratios push this ’49 Caddy to reach 100 mph and scale 0-60 mph in 14 seconds, impressive for the day. This marvelous machine could be purchased for $5,450. Cadillac later used fender loving care and the 1948 chassis to develop horse-powered hearses and languid limousines. Nope, it’s not exactly that Glorious Ghostbuster mobile! Many mistake Renown’s 1949 Superior Cadillac ambulance for the Cadillac Miller-Meteor which was called the Ectomobile in the Ghostbusters movie. That famous fueler and specter fightin’ wagon was produced ten years later, in 1959 in the Miller Meteor plant in Pigua, OH. The production run was very limited with only 400 vehicles produced. At nearly 20 feet in length and weighing 3 tons, the Cadillac Miller-Meteor was an unwieldy car to handle, though it was a smooth ride thanks to an air suspension system and a 6.3-liter V8 engine. It was reported that this 1959 model was purchased for the film for $4,800. Director Ivan Reitman accelerated the film by hiring vehicle designer Stephen Dane to oversee the Ekto-1. He also built the Proton Pack, Particle Thrower, Trap, Giga meter, Slime Scooper and Slime Blower — all within two weeks of the start of shooting of the original Ghostbusters movie. Now that’s a KeyMaster! About the National Automobile Museum One of America’s Top 10 Automobile Museums, the National Automobile Museum showcases more than 200 remarkable automobiles. It features theatre presentations and audio tours in English and Spanish through 100,000 square feet of galleries, exhibits and vibrant street scenes and accompanying artifacts that bring displays to life. The museum is a dynamic and popular venue for special events as intimate as 60 and as large as 1,200 guests. For more information, visit automuseum.org. 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. To join the Renown Health team visit renown.org/careers.
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New Trauma Surgical, Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units Unveiled at Renown Regional Medical Center
A major community investment in health care facilities to transform care, improve the economy and enhance the quality of life for generations to come. Understanding that the greatest gift is health, Nevada’s first hospital, established as a clinic in 1862 during a smallpox outbreak to treat the sick during the Civil War, today announced the opening of two new patient care floors within the Tahoe Tower at Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. “Renown Health has a rich 160-year history of service to northern Nevada. Continuing our bold vision and legacy, Renown is making this investment to transform care in our community and improve the quality of life for generations to come. Nothing of its kind has been imagined or currently exists in our area,” says Adam Kramer, Board Chair. “This represents one of the largest investments in healthcare facilities, services and programs in the state, and is a result of putting people first to enhance health care access, experiences, outcomes and affordability for all. We are thrilled to give this gift to our community on Renown’s 160th anniversary." Renown Health is the only locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Washoe County, Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. "These new intensive care units are designed to meet the needs of patients, their families and our care teams,” said Dr. Brian Erling, President and CEO of Renown Health. “This remarkable expansion of our critical care services amplifies our capability to deliver an unparalleled quality of care. Driven by the unwavering commitment of our clinicians, these state-of-the-art units epitomize Renown's resolve to address the escalating healthcare demands of our community, ensuring that our patients receive the highest quality of care, close to home and near family and friends.” Renown Regional Medical Center, the region’s only Level 2 Trauma Center, is fully equipped to deliver comprehensive emergency medical services to individuals suffering from traumatic injuries. Growing for the Community Over the last three years, given significant consumer demand for Renown providers and services, a master facilities planning process was undertaken to ensure adequate bed and procedure capacity, spaces to accommodate new technology and services to meet the needs of a growing patient base and community. “Renown’s hospital campuses will be the most innovative, convenient and compassionate places to provide and receive care,” says Ann Beck, Chief Financial Officer for Renown Health and executive sponsor of the project. “Designed for patients, visitors and team members, these spaces showcase state-of-the-art technology, enhance patient safety and improve the hospital experience – including adding more private rooms; having flexible areas with room for growth; and creating healthy, sustainable buildings and interiors.” Today, the population of Washoe County, now at 502,193 people, has experienced staggering growth of 12.28% over the last 10 years, from 2010 to 2020. Benefits of Renown’s Hospital Facilities Construction Project To alleviate current capacity constraints and allow for expansion and new services, a number of aging facilities are being replaced and new patient care areas have been constructed. The ninth floor of the Tahoe Tower is now home to a leading-edge Trauma Surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while the fifth floor houses a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These state-of-the-art facilities reflect Renown Health's ongoing commitment to exceptional patient care and innovative medical advancements, while also increasing patient capacity. New Trauma Surgical Intensive Care Unit (9th Floor, Tahoe Tower, Renown Regional Medical Center) Located on the ninth floor of the Tahoe Tower, the newly established Trauma Surgical ICU represents a significant advancement in healthcare capabilities. This state-of-the-art facility boasts leading-edge technology and is staffed by a team of dedicated, highly skilled professionals. Equipped to handle critical injuries and intricate surgical needs, the unit offers the latest advancements in trauma care, ensuring comprehensive treatment for patients in need. "Renown Health is proud to serve more than one million patients in a 100,000-square mile reach across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and eastern California. Our investment in the Trauma Surgical ICU is a testament to providing exceptional care to trauma patients," said Taralynn Bassham, Director of Nursing for the Trauma ICU. "This unit supports our care teams in continuing to deliver specialized treatments and technologies, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients during their most critical moments." Features of the Trauma Surgical ICU Include: Increased capacity from 27 to 34 private patient rooms. Enhanced and immediate proximity to patients with new nurse station design. Increased space for improved patient care, enhanced staff efficiency and equipment. Larger picture windows feature views of the city and mountains to increase health and well-being. New Family areas provide privacy, comfort, emotional support and allow for better information sharing with care teams. Convenient, private bathrooms with safety features. “Spirit of the Land” art and design concept features bright and joyful colors, and healing art from artists across Nevada and California. Diffused lighting and improved acoustics. Enhanced spaces to increase health and wellness of clinicians, including a respite lounge, conference spaces and sit-stand desks. New Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (5th Floor, Tahoe Tower, Renown Regional Medical Center) In addition to the Trauma Surgical ICU, Renown Regional Medical Center has also expanded its pediatric critical care services. The NICU has advanced technology and trained healthcare professionals to give special care for the tiniest patients. Women from throughout Nevada and California deliver their babies at Renown Regional Medical Center for the added 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. The Renown NICU is staffed around the clock by medical professionals who specialize in premature and sick infants including neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, registered nurses, respiratory therapists, lactation consultants, social workers/case coordinators, developmental specialists and registered dietitians. Features of the Neonatal ICU Include: Increased capacity from 39 to 49 baby bassinets. Additional space for family and loved ones with Bassinet pod system. New Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (5th Floor, Tahoe Tower, Renown Regional Medical Center) Critically ill patients from newborns to young adults are cared for in the PICU, a specialized unit within the Children’s Hospital. Most patients are under the age of eighteen, some with rare diseases can be slightly older. Patients have diagnoses ranging from breathing difficulties, infections, genetic conditions, metabolic conditions, traumas and accidents, surgeries and many others. Pediatric intensivists, registered nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, dietitians and many others provide care around the clock for children. Features of the Pediatric ICU Include: Increased capacity from 11 to 16 private patient and family rooms. Interactive spaces for families, including reading nooks, shadow puppet corners and large projected shapes in the elevator lobby. Bright and engaging color palate, and child-friendly art. Enhanced spaces to increase health and wellness of clinicians, including a respite lounge, conference spaces and sit-stand desks. “While we celebrate this milestone today, we are also looking to the future,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP Chair of Pediatrics (UNR Med) and Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital. “Renown Health remains committed to advancing pediatric care with our affiliation with the UNR School of Medicine, our new pediatric residency program, and through ongoing research, education and innovation. With your help, we will continue to invest in our talented staff, pursue groundbreaking treatments, and collaborate to push the boundaries of what is possible in pediatric medicine.” "Our new NICU and PICU units represent a major milestone in pediatric care close to home. We have meticulously designed these spaces to provide a nurturing, healing environment for our little patients and their families, said Becky Haase, Director of Nursing. “We have always provided exceptional care for our patients, now this space matches Renown’s commitment to this community." These expansions were made possible through the collaborative efforts of Renown Health, the Renown Health Board, construction partners – Clark and Sullivan, Cumming Group and Perkins + Will – and the unwavering support of the community and our care teams. "In November 2020, Renown announced $489 million in planned investments, including enhancements to our hospital campus and the development of new facilities. The opening of these new units stand as a pivotal moment to celebrate those planned investments," said Ann Beck, Chief Financial Officer at Renown Health. "These expansions perfectly align with our mission to deliver easily accessible, top-tier care to our patients, and we are thrilled for our community to experience this exciting new decade at Renown Health." To learn more about the expansion projects underway at Renown, please visit renown.org/ExpandingCare. 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.
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Celebrating More Than 150 Years of Nursing, First Nevada Hospital and Nursing School Award First Jerry Smith Student Tuition Support
Donors, Orvis School of Nursing at University of Nevada, Reno and Renown Health create history by awarding tuition assistance to 29 nursing students and creating a future academic and career pipeline. The University of Nevada, Reno has officially begun its yearlong sesquicentennial celebration (October 2023 and through October 2024). Today, a celebration was held as donors, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing awarded 29 nursing students with tuition support as part of the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with the Renown Health Foundation. The Practice Partnership is named in honor of the late Jerry Smith of the Nell J. Redfield Foundation and supported by a generous lead gift from the Redfield Foundation and Stephanie Kruse, owner of KPS3 and chair of the Renown Health Foundation Board as they work to create a sustainable nursing workforce in northern Nevada for years to come. Kruse made a generous planned gift to the Renown Health Foundation and the Renown Nursing Excellence Endowment Fund. This was the lead gift for the endowment, after a significant cash gift to the Nursing Education Fund last summer. Kruse of Reno was recently awarded the prestigious 2023 Trustee of the Year Award from the Nevada Hospital Association for her exceptional leadership; professional excellence; outstanding achievements; innovative accomplishments and extraordinary compassion in caring for the community. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership recipients receive funding for tuition, books, and nursing fees, along with a guaranteed career in nursing with Renown Health following graduation and license obtainment. Eligible University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing students, Nevada residents and those committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation who are interested in applying for the tuition support can find the application in Canvas, University of Nevada’s learning management system. “Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, our state is in need of additional registered nurses simply to meet the increased population growth and demand,” noted Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “The daughter of a nurse and a former nurse herself, Stephanie understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare systems. Stephanie has made a significant and lasting contribution by helping to train and grow the next generation of nurses and we so appreciate her service, and her many contributions to Renown and our community.” "Since our University first welcomed students to classes in 1874, the institution has been a place where dreams can be realized for the good of all. We are incredibly grateful for the Gerald ‘Jerry’ Smith Nursing Academic-Practice Partnership,” Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) said. “The tuition support not only impact the lives and dreams of the nursing students being honored today, but positively influences the overall health of our community by ensuring that excellent healthcare professionals stay right here in northern Nevada.” “Jerry Smith had a strong belief in community collaboration, and we are beyond proud that this partnership is named in his memory. He would be thrilled to see the impact these gifts are having on these nursing students today,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown Health Foundation. “Stepanie Kruse works tirelessly to improve access to better health and human services, and she is now encouraging others to join the fight by donating to the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership fund at Renown to help fund additional tuition assistance and support nurse education for our state. Her goal is to be able to provide full support to each of the 192 students in the Orvis School of Nursing program each year.” According to a white paper published by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center (the Center) in December 2022, analysis by the Center revealed persistent, widespread health professional shortages in Nevada. Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, the Center estimated that Nevada currently needs over four thousand additional registered nurses simply to meet the national population-to-RN average. The partnership allows the Orvis School of Nursing to expand its graduating classes by 8 additional students a year. “At Renown, we take pride in placing an emphasis on education and career development. Partnering with the Orvis School of Nursing to create an academic pipeline is imperative for addressing the nursing shortage in Nevada,” said Melodie Osborn, Chief Nurse Executive at Renown Health. “Renown Health and the Orvis School of Nursing’s collaboration has been longstanding, and accomplishing this milestone reaffirms our partnership and our long legacy that both organizations have to nursing and education.” In addition to announcing the Practice Partnership, the Orvis School of Nursing has merged the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This merger has expanded the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from 72 students to 96 students admitted twice per year. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program now admits a total of 192 students in the program each year. “We are excited to be accepting our first class of Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership nursing students and to be increasing the number of nursing students who can enroll in the Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN program,” said Cameron G. Duncan, Interim Dean of the Orvis School of Nursing. “It’s integral for nursing students to get hands-on experience in an environment that places an emphasis on quality and excellence, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with Renown Health. We are so appreciative of Stephanie and the generous donors who will make education possible for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in nursing.” Founded in 1864, Washoe County Hospital (which later became Renown Health) was the first hospital to open after Nevada became a state and is now the state’s largest not-for-profit healthcare organization and #1 hospital in Nevada (US News & World Report). Founded in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) is the oldest school of nursing in the state and committed to serving the healthcare needs of the people of Nevada through excellence in teaching, research, and service. In 2021, Renown Health affiliated with the University of Nevada Reno, School of Medicine creating the state’s first integrated health system. 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 associates, 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 hiring great physicians, nurses and associates for careers in service; apply at renown.org/careers and volunteers to assist patients and their families at renown.org/about/volunteers. About University of Nevada, Reno The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Nevada’s land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit unr.edu.
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8 Financial & Wellness Benefits for Employees
Listening to what employees need most now and for the future; ensuring families are healthy, financially secure The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate last week for the first time since March 2020. This will mean a higher cost of borrowing on credit cards, student and home loans, car financing and more. It could also mean more returns from savings accounts, depending on the institution. This news, coupled with concerns about mental health and physical well-being as caregivers come through the pandemic has presented leaders at Renown with a unique opportunity to reframe approaches to how to help their employees grow, feel financially supported and engage as part of a healthy and thriving team. After listening to concerns of employees and their leaders, Renown Health’s Human Resources department and leading industry partners have announced a number of additional benefits to promote ways to increase work/life balance; support rest-and-recuperation strategies, and new financial resources essential to sustaining happy, high-performing teams. Renown Health is hiring key roles to support the health and well-being of our community, and encouraging those with a passion for service to join the Renown family to Fight the Good Fight, by applying on line at careers.renown.org. Expanded and new employee benefits for 2022 include: 1. Expanded Physical Health, Medical and Dental Plan Benefits. The MOBE program, offered at no charge, offers each employee a personal Health Guide to support four core elements of health; diet, sleep, physical movement and emotional well-being to help build healthy habits, fuel a better life, provide energy and promote healing. This year, Renown expanded its Medical Plan coverage, adding new benefits, without increasing rates paid by employees. Renown offers health insurance benefits through Hometown Health, northern Nevada’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company with wide-ranging medical coverage. Hometown Health offers access to the largest network and highest quality clinical services provided by 1,200 medical doctors and specialists in 150 sites of care, including those with Renown Medical Group; urgent care centers; lab and imaging services; and the state’s #1 Us News & World Report hospitals, Renown Regional Medical Center (2022) and Renown South Meadows Medical Center (2021). New medical benefits added this year include telehealth visits with a $0 copay; Renown Pharmacy prescriptions with no deductible; and if employees and their families need to travel out of the area for essential care, there is now a travel stipend offered for University Medical Center in Las Vegas or to University of Utah Health. The organization also reduced the cost for health insurance premiums paid by part-time employees (20-30 hours). In addition to improved health benefits, the dental network was expanded through MetLife Dental, with no increases in dental rate premiums paid by employees in 2022. As a non-profit organization, Renown is able to offer employees the ability to establish Flexible Spending Accounts as way to use tax-free dollars to pay medical expenses not covered by other health plans. 2. Enhanced Wellness and Mental Health support programs. Renown Health is home to the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addictions Institute. As leaders, they are working to remove the stigma and barriers to using mental health services when needed; reinforcing that seeking help indicates strength, not weakness. This includes encouraging team members to take a day off to refresh and recharge or take advantage of confidential, mental health counseling visits at no charge. Renown updated their policy to include mental and emotional well-being as eligible for use of sick leave. Through the pandemic, to be sure employees had the time should needed, leadership added 80 hours of sick time to employee’s sick banks as well as $0 copay for Teladoc behavioral health sessions and nutrition services (virtual). Renown encourages physical fitness and inspires the health and well-being of employees by supporting participation in races (on foot or via bike) in their communities. Employee who race, run, walk, triathlon or bike may submit for reimbursement for an individual entry fee up to $100. 3. Appreciating and Engaging Employees. Many teams may now be working on-site, hybrid and remotely, which means getting together to make new memories is more complicated. Renown Health leaders continue to bring camaraderie and bonding into the workplace by investing in holding monthly Pride events for staff, hosting everything from online socials to game nights to help re-establish bonds. At Renown, employee engagement also takes the form of employee recognition programs. The Everyday Amazing program encourages employees to thank each other for outstanding service via an online platform, and earn certificates and points towards gift cards and prizes. Employee and organization-led leadership and career education programs are encouraged, as well as paid volunteer opportunities (four hours each quarter), and matches of up to $1000 for non-profit organization boards on which Renown Health employees serve. Renown offers events and yearbooks to help employees celebrate their history and accomplishments, as well as Celebrate Amazing, a special event to honor Service Milestones, Top Talent and Women of Achievement award winners. Renown supports the community and engages medical providers and employees to attend events with the Reno Aces, UNR football and basketball games, the Great Reno Balloon Race and hundreds of community events each year. 4. Living Debt Free with Financial Wellness Programs. A free financial wellbeing program from Salary Finance is available at no cost to employees, with a salary-linked loan product. This benefit enables employees to borrow or save money directly through their paycheck. Salary-linked loans allow employees to access affordable credit that they can easily repay through their salary, helping them pay down existing debt or avoid high-interest credit cards, overdraft fees, or payday loans. Salary Finance provides affordable borrowing options in times of need, as well as a financial education component, which helps employees understand their current level of financial content specific to their needs. Since launching, over 40% of employees have engaged with the Salary Finance offering, and over 500 have accessed affordable credit through Renown's custom-branded Salary Finance Financial Wellbeing Hub. “It has made a wonderful impact and has lessened my frequent stress regarding my debt," said a Renown employee enrolled in the program. In total, it is estimated that employees have saved nearly $275,000 on interest, and that number continues to grow as more employees take advantage of the benefit. The Greater Perks program from Greater Nevada Credit Union, the official credit union for Renown employees, offers a number of benefits including a $100 bonus for opening a new checking account, $25 when opening a new “I Can Save” account, $500 credit towards an appraisal for a home loan, low-cost rates on short-term personal loans and auto loans, and regular online financial wellness seminars. Membership with the credit union is not required to take advantage of Greater Nevada Mortgage’s offerings. In addition, donors have supported, through the Renown Health Foundation, funds for help employees who have suffered a personal financial catastrophe, and are in need for emergency funding to pay bills, with no repayment required. 5. Educational Assistance Reimbursement, Student Loan Repayment, Continuing Education for Learners. Renown values and encourages employees to continue their education and supports career aspirations and goals. The education assistance program offers loan reimbursement and repayment opportunities as well as educational and financial guidance from experts. College tuition, certification and certificate reimbursement is provided for employees who are currently enrolled in college/university or taking the extra steps to receive a professional certification or certificate. In addition, the organization supports employees who have previously completed their education and are now managing the burden of student loans. Employees also have the option to invest in a 529 college savings plan, an investment program designed to help people save for future education expenses for children/dependents at almost any private or public college or accredited higher education institution. 6. Onsite Childcare & Adult Care Assistance. Figuring out the childcare puzzle has been a hurdle for working parents through the pandemic. Renown is one of a select number of health systems that offer onsite childcare. Renown Health Child Care Center welcomes employees' children ages six weeks to six years (and not yet in kindergarten). The center is licensed for 176 children and features 11 classrooms: three infant classrooms, four toddler and four preschool classrooms. Staff help parents with resources to find care for their children onsite, or with licensed daycare providers in the community. Employees increasingly are caring for older adults in their families. As a non-profit organization, employees are able to contribute to tax-free savings FSA accounts that cover dependent care for children and older adults. 7. Flexible Schedules and Locations. Renown now provides the ability for medical providers and employees to work on-site, hybrid and remotely. This year as many employees working remotely moved out of state to be closer to friends or family, Renown kept pace, employing a Professional Employment Organization called Tri Net, in a co-employment model to assist with national benefits and tax administration. Renown is now able to recruit and retain remote employees from Maine to Minnesota and offer, for a wide range of positions in IT, finance and other support services, remote and flexible schedules that are attractive to many across the country. For clinicians, there are a large variety of positions now available at over 100 locations across the state. On March 7, Renown increased the cap of shift differential to 10% up to $6 an hour and added a weekend differential for staff for up to 5%. At Renown’s hospitals, there are employment positions available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve the community. Other providers and employees take advantage of a compressed workweek, 12-hour shifts and other options, which allow them the flexibility to live their best life at work and at home. 8. Renown’s Retirement Savings Plan. Retirement savings plans including a full 401(k) plan through Vanguard are available for employees to save for retirement. Employees can contribute from1-75% of pre-tax pay (up to annual IRS limit) and receive a matching contribution from Renown of 4% when you contribute 4% or more to a 401(k) plan. Rollovers of a former employer's 401(k), 403(b), 457 or other qualified plan can be made into a Vanguard plan at any time. In addition, in-service withdrawals are allowed at age 59 1/2 from 401(k), and a new Roth 401(k) option was added. 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 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.
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Voces De Cambio Viuda En Reno Inspira Una Nueva
Los hospitales de Renown se encuentran entre los primeros en el país en levantar las restricciones de visitantes para pacientes con COVID-19 y alentar a la familia a estar junto a la cama del paciente. El Dr. Dave y Darlene, verdaderos cazadores de tesoros, disfrutaban explorar tiendas de antigüedades y ventas de garaje para encontrar piezas antiguas dañadas o desechadas. Después de llevar el artículo a casa, Dave pasaba muchas horas raspándolo para limpiarlo, lijándolo y restaurándolo, hasta que relucía y se convertía en un mueble pulido, funcional y hermoso. Cada pieza de su hogar reaviva un recuerdo y tiene una historia que contar. El día de Acción de Gracias, cuando Dave estaba demasiado enfermo para reunirse alrededor de la mesa del comedor antiguo, Darlene llamó a la ambulancia. Dave había estado enfermo con COVID-19 durante dos semanas y no había mejorado. Cuando los técnicos de emergencias médicas llegaron a su casa y le preguntaron a Darlene qué condiciones preexistentes tenía, ella dijo, "todas". David estaba gravemente enfermo. Hospitalizado por COVID-19, sus opciones de comunicación eran limitadas. La única forma en que Darlene podía comunicarse con Dave era mediante una video llamada o por teléfono. Dave pasó 17 días hospitalizado en Renown Regional Medical Center en Reno. Darlene pasó 17 días esperando pegada al teléfono para obtener más información. Darlene dijo que tenía "días buenos y días malos", pero pensó que podría estar de regreso a casa, sentados en su mesa antigua para la cena de Navidad. David Ivan Randolph nació en Boston, Massachusetts el 29 de agosto de 1936. Creció en Roxbury y se graduó de la prestigiosa preparatoria Boston Latin Boys School. Obtuvo una licenciatura en psicología general, una maestría en Psicología experimental de la Universidad Northeastern y un doctorado en psicología y fisiología sensorial de la Universidad de Massachusetts, Amherst. Mientras estaba en la universidad, se unió al ROTC y al graduarse fue comisionado como Primer Teniente en el Cuerpo de Especialistas Médicos del Ejército. Después de una capacitación básica en la Escuela de Capacitación Médica de Fort Sam Houston, fue asignado como Capitán, Psicólogo de Investigación del Ejército de los EE. UU. División en Natick, Massachusetts. Durante los siguientes 30 años, realizó una investigación de la visión en Fort Knox, KY; Filadelfia, Pensilvania y luego con el recién construido Instituto de Investigación del Ejército Letterman (LAIR), División de Riesgos Oculares en el Presidio de San Francisco, CA. David continuó su investigación de la visión en LAIR hasta su jubilación en 1992 cuando el Presidio fue desmantelado. Los hallazgos de la investigación del Dr. Randolph sobre ceguera por destello y visión nocturna lo convirtieron en un presentador solicitado en conferencias de investigación en los Estados Unidos y en el extranjero. En un documental de PBS, fue entrevistado como parte del equipo que desarrolló unas gafas que protegen a los soldados del daño ocular del láser. El Dr. David Randolph perdió su batalla con COVID-19 el 13 de diciembre de 2020 y murió mientras dormía en una cama de hospital. Cuando Darlene escribió su obituario para el periódico, agradeció a las "excelentes enfermeras y médicos del Renown Regional Medical Center, por brindarle atención durante una época en que la familia no podía estar con él". Darlene deseó haber estado allí. Durante su matrimonio de 45 años, ella siempre había estado allí. Darlene dijo, "Siempre había estado junto a su cama, como su defensora, para ayudar a comunicar y aclarar las cosas". Como dietista registrada, trabajaba en hospitales y conocía el protocolo. Sabía que, al igual que los hospitales de todo el mundo, Renown había restringido las visitas de los miembros de la familia para detener la propagación del virus a otros pacientes, el personal y sus familiares. Aun así, deseaba haber pasado más tiempo con él. En Nochebuena, se sentó y le escribió al Dr. Anthony Slonim, presidente y director ejecutivo de Renown Health en Reno, Nevada. “Estimado doctor Slonim, como esposa de un paciente de COVID que falleció recientemente en su hospital, quiero expresarle mi agradecimiento a usted ya su personal por la atención que recibió en los últimos días de su vida. Estoy consciente que las enfermeras y el personal están trabajando en condiciones peligrosas y arriesgando su salud y sus vidas al atender a varios pacientes con COVID. El personal fue amable, se preocupó e hizo todo lo posible por mi esposo y por mí ". Ella continuó, "Sé que los procedimientos están cambiando cada hora para tratar de mantenerse a la vanguardia de este virus peligroso y estoy compartiendo mis experiencias con la esperanza de que sean útiles al establecer políticas que impacten a las familias". Darlene explicó que a pesar de recibir garantías de que la enfermera de Dave o incluso un médico llamarían a diario, a veces se olvidaban. Ella explicó en su carta, “lo importante que era, en estos tiempos en que la familia no puede visitar, y solo tienen comunicación ocasionalmente y están esperando ansiosamente en casa para saber de su ser querido, cuánto significa recibir una llamada de alguien quien cuidaba de él en el hospital ". Darlene pidió, "Si hay alguna forma en la que pueda ayudar a asegurar que las enfermeras tengan tiempo para hacer llamadas o ayudar a los pacientes a hacer llamadas, porque es una parte importante de la atención al paciente". Después de recibir su carta, el Dr. Slonim llamó a la Sra. David Randolph para agradecerle, ofrecerle sus condolencias y preguntarle si Renown podía ayudar de alguna manera. Darlene preguntó si podría reconsiderar permitir que las familias visiten a los pacientes del hospital que reciben tratamiento por COVID-19. El Dr. Slonim, quien también había perdido a su padre a causa del COVID-19 en abril en un hospital de Nueva Jersey, le pidió a su equipo de liderazgo que evaluara la solicitud de la Sra. Randolph e hiciera una recomendación. El equipo de liderazgo del hospital hizo una recomendación al Dr. Slonim que fue aprobada de inmediato. A medida que la situación del COVID-19 ha evolucionado, la política también lo ha hecho. Con un alto porcentaje del personal del hospital Renown ahora vacunado contra el COVID-19, disminuyendo las hospitalizaciones de pacientes con COVID-19 y entendiendo que las mejores comunicaciones son en persona, a partir del miércoles 27 de enero de 2021 por la mañana, los hospitales de Renown los consultorios médicos ahora fomentan el número limitado de visitantes para todos los pacientes, incluidos los diagnosticados con COVID-19. Renown continúa implementando medidas de seguridad adicionales para proteger la salud de los pacientes, visitantes y empleados de atención médica, y a medida que la situación cambia con el COVID-19, estas pautas están sujetas a cambios. "A partir de hoy, un Adulto de Apoyo para Pacientes sano puede acompañar a cada paciente a su visita médica o hospitalización de Renown", dijo Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, presidente y director ejecutivo de Renown, "Vivimos según nuestros valores de empatía, integridad, colaboración y excelencia. Agradecemos a Darlene por recordarnos que la mejor atención es la 'atención centrada en la persona', un enfoque que abarca la perspectiva del paciente y sus seres queridos, al tiempo que promueve un entorno saludable y alentador para los cuidadores y aborda las necesidades de salud de nuestra comunidad. " “En Renown, la definición de" familia "la define el paciente", dice Debra Adornetto-García, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, AOCN, Directora de Enfermería de Servicios Agudos. “Nuestros pacientes pueden designar a cualquier persona que elijan como su Persona de Apoyo para Pacientes. La Persona de Apoyo para Pacientes es increíblemente importante y forma parte del equipo de atención. Se le pedirá a la Persona de Apoyo para Pacientes que se asocie con el equipo de atención médica del paciente para ayudar a comunicarse con otros familiares y amigos, participar en actividades de capacitación y educación y ayudar al paciente a cumplir con las instrucciones de atención y medicación ". “Cuando se trata de curación y recuperación, el papel de todos es importante”, enfatiza Paul Sierzenski, MD, MSHQS, CPE, FACEP, Director Médico de Servicios Agudos. “Lo que podemos hacer juntos para apoyar la atención del paciente y obtener excelentes resultados es más grande que lo que cualquiera de nosotros puede hacer solo. Esta creencia da forma a nuestro trabajo, nuestros servicios y la atención que brindamos a los pacientes, sus familias y amigos en Renown.” “Me complace que Renown Health haya modificado las políticas de visitas para que cada paciente pueda tener un visitante designado. Como ex paciente de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos y médico actual de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, sé la importancia de contar con el apoyo de un ser querido en el hospital y estoy encantado de que podamos adaptarnos a este aspecto increíblemente importante de la atención al paciente”, dice Jacob B Keeperman, MD, FACEP, FAAEM, FAEMS, FCCM, Director Médico, Centro Regional de Transferencia y Operaciones de Renown, Intensivista. Cuando le dijeron a Darlene que su carta inspiró este cambio en las políticas de visitantes para pacientes con COVID-19, se mostró muy complacida y dijo, “Siempre he tratado de pensar en formas en las que podría ayudar a otras familias, especialmente a las parejas mayores donde uno está hospitalizado y el otro en casa. Mi deseo es ayudar a los demás ". De acuerdo con las pautas nacionales, a partir del 27 de enero de 2021, una Persona de Apoyo para Pacientes por paciente podrá acceder a Renown Regional Medical Center y Renown South Meadows Medical Center como se indica: El horario de visita para todos los pacientes, incluidos los diagnosticados con COVID-19, se extenderá de 8 am a 8 pm (antes era de 3 a 8 pm). Ahora se alienta a todos los pacientes a que designen hasta dos Personas de Apoyo para Pacientes. Debido a las limitaciones de espacio, pedimos que las Personas de Apoyo para Pacientes visiten uno a la vez). Los pacientes proporcionarán los nombres de hasta dos Personas de Apoyo para Pacientes durante la admisión/registración del paciente. Los nombres de las Personas de Apoyo para Pacientes se ingresarán en el registro médico electrónico del paciente para su privacidad y seguridad. El Renown Children’s Hospital/Hospital de Niños: Acceso abierto. (Se pueden designar dos padres y/o tutores como Personas de Apoyo para Pacientes, sin embargo, debido a las limitaciones de espacio actuales, le pedimos que visite uno a la vez). Para obtener información más detallada sobre el programa de Persona de Apoyo para Pacientes, visite https://www.renown.org/interact/ Acerca de Renown Health Renown Health es la red de atención médica integrada sin fines de lucro más grande de la región, de propiedad y administración local, que presta servicios a Nevada, Lake Tahoe y al noreste de California. Con una fuerza laboral diversa de más de 7,000 empleados, Renown ha fomentado una cultura de excelencia, determinación e innovación de toda la vida. La organización está conformada de un centro de traumatología, dos hospitales de cuidados intensivos, un hospital infantil, un hospital de rehabilitación, un grupo médico y una red de atención de urgencia, y la compañía de seguros sin fines de lucro local más grande de la región, Hometown Health. El modelo del instituto de Renown aborda los determinantes sociales de la salud e incluyen: Salud Infantil, Salud del Comportamiento y Adicciones, Envejecimiento Saludable e Innovación en Salud. Los institutos clínicos incluyen: Cáncer, Corazón y Salud Vascular y Neurociencias. Actualmente, Renown está inscribiendo a participantes en el estudio de salud de la población genética basada en la comunidad más grande del mundo, el Healthy Nevada Project®. Para obtener más información, visite https://www.renown.org/.
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MyChart Proxy Access
What is Proxy Access? Proxy access allows parents, legal guardians and caregivers to log into their personal MyChart account and connect to the health information of a patient they represent. As a proxy, you can view upcoming appointments, request appointments, view lab results, email a doctor on the patient’s behalf, view medications, request prescription refills and view health reminders. How Do I Establish Proxy Access? Login to your MyChart account with your username and password Go to the Profile menu at the top of the screen, then select Personalize From this screen you can see whose records you currently have access to Click Request Access to a minor’s chart Complete all of the fields When finished click Submit Request What if I Don’t Have a Renown MyChart Account? If you don’t have a Renown MyChart account, call 775-982-2781 and someone from the Renown Health MyChart team can help you set up proxy access. Keep in mind, the ability to request proxy access is only available on the MyChart website and not via the mobile app. However, the website can be accessed with your smartphone or tablet by using the web browser and going to mychart.renown.org.
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3 Ways to Switch to a Medicaid Plan Accepted at Renown
Medicaid plays a significant role in our health care system and is the nation’s public health insurance program. In addition, this program is the predominant source of long-term care coverage for Americans. Renown Health is contracted with two Medicaid plans: Molina and Anthem. If you currently have a different plan but want to change to one that Renown accepts, you can request to change plans during the open enrollment period from January 1 to March 31. Request to change your Medicaid plan in one of three ways: Request a change to your plan, or managed care organization (MCO), by reviewing the available MCO plans online at bit.ly/MCOPlansNV and filling out the form on the webpage. Email Nevada Medicaid to ask for a plan change and include your name, Medicaid ID and the names and Medicaid IDs of any dependents in your home: MCORedistribution@dhcfp.nv.gov. Call your local Medicaid district office at 775-687-1900 (northern Nevada) or 702-668-4200 (southern Nevada) to ask about changing your plan. For more information about the Medicaid plans accepted at Renown Health, please visit: Anthem Molina Healthcare Renown Health accepts most insurances, but please visit the link below for the full list. Click here for all accepted plans
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Virtual Visits – Healthcare You Need At Home
Virtual visits are basically secure, video conferencing visits with your health provider. Of course if you are sick, you want to avoid going outside of your house. With Renown Health’s virtual visit program, you can now see a provider from the comfort of your own home. As we work to keep all of our patients home and healthy, we’re here for any ongoing healthcare needs you have. There are two easy ways to access a virtual visit with Renown Health. If you need an urgent care visit, you can get in line using your MyChart account You can make a virtual visit with some Renown Health providers you see currently Virtual Urgent Care from a Renown Provider By using MyChart, you can now login and request to “Talk to a Doctor.” After filling in some information and confirming your healthcare concern, you will be put into a virtual line. The healthcare team will notify you by text or email when a provider is ready to talk to you virtually. Virtual urgent care visits are available for all ages. Get To Know MyChart Virtual urgent care visits are available for all ages, and can address: Common cold and cough symptoms Muscular, tendon or joint pains not caused by injury Allergy or sinus symptoms Pink eye Urinary discomfort Diarrhea without vomiting Rashes or skin sores Backache Nail problems Screening examination for sexually transmitted illness (without symptoms) Medication refills (not controlled substances) Symptoms for In-Person Urgent Care Visits Shortness of breath Chest pain Abdominal pain Numbness or weakness of any location that is new Traumatic injuries (including eye injuries or something in the eye) Severe pain of any other body location Dizziness or confusion Bleeding from any location High fever (greater than 102 degrees for all ages) Persistent vomiting Loss of vision Ear pain Substance abuse or psychiatric problems Virtual visits are open 9 a.m. through 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for Nevada residents. Renown Provider Virtual Visits Many primary and specialty care appointments for adults and children are now available virtually. If you have a provider with Renown Medical Group, call 775-982-5000 to see if you can have a virtual appointment from the comfort of your home. MyChart Assistance If you need assistance with your MyChart account, please call 775-982-6686. For all other questions about scheduling and appointments, please call 775-982-5000.
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Heart Failure Risks and Expecting the Unexpected
For the average person, detecting the signs of heart failure can be tricky, especially since people can look fairly healthy and have few symptoms. We asked Christopher Rowan, M.D., of the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health, to answer our most pressing questions about heart failure. Even with more technology in medicine and a greater awareness about health today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still reports that one in every four U.S. deaths is caused by heart disease. The real tragedy of heart-related deaths is that they are both common and preventable. “Heart failure can have many forms that are seen in anyone at any age," says Christopher Rowan, MD, with Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health. "As many forms as it has, it can also have as many causes. Although the symptoms of heart failure are numerous, people can look mostly healthy and have relatively few symptoms.” We sat down with Dr. Rowan to ask some common questions about heart failure. How can I tell if I have heart failure? What are some sure signs? "The signs and symptoms of heart failure are numerous, but the most common ones are shortness of breath when trying to walk (which differs from somebody’s normal pattern); progressive swelling in the feet, legs and ankles that does not disappear overnight; and waking up at night due to shortness of breath or waking up more than normal to urinate," Dr. Rowan says. Can heart failure be cured? "The treatment of heart failure depends on its primary cause," Dr. Rowan says. "Various forms of heart failure can be cured; however, the person is always at risk for recurrence. Some forms of heart failure have no cure but can be managed and stabilized and people can live a relatively normal life for years." What can I do to prevent heart failure? "To prevent the onset of heart failure, know your risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle," Dr. Rowan says. "If you have any of these risk factors, work to get them under good control and stop smoking. If you are overweight, start a daily routine where you walk at least 45 minutes per day, 5 days per week. Walking is the best exercise for your cardiovascular health." To learn more, visit the Heart Failure Program at the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health. We want to hear your story! If you or a friend have been treated for a heart condition at Renown Health and are interested in chatting with us about your experience, please email your contact information to support@renown.org so we can follow up.
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Department Spotlight: Marketing and Communications
Nov. 12-18 is Health Care Strategy & Market Development Week. Please join us in celebrating the Marketing and Communications team at Renown Health! When you think of the brand of Renown Health, what comes to mind? Perhaps you think about our Fight the Good Fight motto that you see integrated throughout our commercials and advertisements. Or maybe your mind drifts to our signature purple that you saw on a print design or social media post. You may even think of a local news story that showcases the essence of who we are as an organization. Or you may gravitate toward the look and feel of our patient-friendly website. Managing the brand of our health system is crucial as patients look to Renown to be the voice of not-for-profit healthcare – and it takes a wide range of expertise to solidify that voice. The masters of our voice can be found within Renown’s Marketing and Communications (“MarComm”) team. From branding and business-to-business to content and community relations, this robust department is the minds behind our reputation within the communities we serve. This team is chock-full of expert writers, speakers, designers and marketers who craft positive and memorable communications that lead to a lifetime of patient and employee loyalty. The Connoisseurs of Communicating As the keyholders of Renown’s brand position and promise, our MarComm team are experts at ensuring the community at large remembers precisely who Renown is and what our health system stands for. This all-hands-on-deck department encompasses a wide variety of talents: Marketing and creative services: Traditional and digital advertising, brand templates and collateral and brand image and awareness Communication and public relations: Employee and provider communications, intranet management, social media, media relations, photography and videography, community relations, crisis communications and strategic planning and advisement Digital specializations: Website and microsites, email marketing, customer journey mapping, blogs and chatbots Our Marketing and Creative Services team members are the ultimate dreamers, starting diverse campaigns from the ground up. “In marketing and creative services, we are always dreaming up something new,” said Emily MacMillan, Manager of Marketing & Creative Services. “Between our brand advertising, to service line campaigns to external partnerships, you can always find our team working on a marketing plan and creating ads, content, messaging, videos, graphics, emails, photoshoots and more.” “From Fight the Good Fight brand work to a service line promotion or a sponsorship creative package, the variety of projects my role allows me to bring to life for Renown is almost endless,” added Chad Norton, Senior Creative Specialist. “That can make every day at my job nothing like the day before – which keeps things interesting and my creativity flowing.” For all things storytelling and public image management, Renown looks to the Communications team for expert guidance. “As the Manager of Communications, I get to lead the most talented group of professionals I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” said Caroline Ackerman, Manager of Communications & Public Affairs. “Sometimes there is an urgent matter to tend to, and we drop everything to support larger-scale communications. Other days, we get last-minute requests from our local media partners for TV interviews. On top of that, the communications team supports event planning and employee recognition. It’s so fun to work in this hybrid space where we can get our work done from home while also being present at meaningful Renown events.” At Renown, we believe our external image is just as vital as our internal culture. Keeping our employees informed and engaged every step of the way is of utmost importance to MarComm. “While most of our department supports projects that focus on our patients, guests and visitors, our employee communications team supports internal clients (our employees),” said Dani Vogel, Communications Business Partner. “Therefore, I spend a good portion of my time working with internal departments and service lines to deliver important communications across the organization using a variety of channels. In a nutshell, my day starts with the question, ‘what do our employees need to know today?’ We get to work with so many amazing internal teams.” “I internally project manage some of the marketing campaigns, from open enrollment to our annual report, and each project is different and requires its own approach,” added Colleen McLellan, Senior Production Specialist. “I create the framework for each project, such as establishing a kickoff and ongoing meeting cadence during the project, ensuring we track lessons learned and decisions made for each, create the folder structure in Sharepoint, and opening a project and maintaining the tasks and deadlines in Workfront. I am also often part of a quality circle, proofing ads and other materials created as part of a campaign. As with all of my colleagues in MarComm, we are often resources for where to learn more or find information for other departments.” “One of my roles is to maintain the Brand HQ site and review approval requests,” added Aurora Boles, Creative Services Specialist. “I enjoy hopping on Teams calls to assist our employees with their questions about the site or templates.” Maintaining a high standard of digital excellence comes easy for the Marketing Technology team, who manage the complexities of Renown’s digital front door – starting with our website. “Think about how many health service lines Renown has to offer; now, let's create an organized set of pages for that specific service line on Renown.org – that a lot of pages!” said Sarah LaBarge, Digital Specialist. “It takes time to curate the layout, work with providers and the Communications team to ensure the content is correct and create components and images for the page to give the user the best digital experience while continually updating and maintaining all our pages. We don't just have Renown.org; we have many other microsites that we maintain as well. It is a nice challenge to make both our team and users happy and have a good experience.” "The user experience is always at the forefront of whatever I do," added Tori Bowlin, Digital Content Editor. "When writing health blogs, emails, or health service web content, it's essential to attribute the information to one of our outstanding providers and link the post to a Renown Health Service or reputable source. A thoughtful workflow helps our customers make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being." As a not-for-profit health system, Renown reinvests right back into the community we serve. Our Community Benefit team serves as the overseers of this promise, ensuring our local non-profits that share our mission are able to deliver on their own goals. “I absolutely love the role of community impact and partnership liaison and the opportunity it provides to work with so many wonderful local nonprofits,” said Melissa Dahir, Community Benefit Liaison. “Our local community is filled with so many organizations designed to help those in need, and it is an honor to be contributing to and supporting the work these amazing groups do. My work with this department involves partnering with nonprofit organizations by providing funding for program support through groups identified in our Community Health Needs Assessment, and providing grants for traditional events such as community walks, golf tournaments, dinners, galas and more.” The MarComm team’s paramount focus on maintaining a caring and collaborative culture stems from the impact they have on patients' lives and the crucial trust placed in the organization. For this team, no project to benefit the health and well-being of Renown’s patients is too big nor too small. “As someone holding a core leadership position on this team, I can see firsthand that our team is all about culture and retention,” said Cristal Woodley, Senior Director of Marketing, Communications and Customer Engagement. “At the end of the day, we have an impact on patients’ lives and trust in the organization. I’ve surrounded myself with such smart people.”
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