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Renown Health has been working with the Washoe County Health District, the state, and the CDC to distribute the limited supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. Renown has completed more than 64,000 dose 1 and dose 2 vaccinations to date, which includes all of Tier 1A (Medical Staff members, Renown employees, students and volunteers) and eligible community members – which now includes everyone 16+.  “Renown is excited to continue along our goal of providing the opportunity for everyone who is interested in receiving the vaccine to be vaccinated at no charge,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We would like local businesses to know we have thousands of open appointments in early May and we encourage our business colleagues to share this information with employees so they may easily schedule an appointment through MyChart and continue on the path to a healthier and safer northern Nevada.”  “Renown is excited to continue along our goal of providing the opportunity for everyone who is interested in receiving the vaccine to be vaccinated at no charge,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We would like local businesses to know we have thousands of open appointments in early May and we encourage our business colleagues to share this information with employees so they may easily schedule an appointment through MyChart and continue on the path to a healthier and safer northern Nevada.”  Vaccine appointments for 18+ Anyone ages 18 and older may register for a free Renown Epic MyChart account. They do not need to have a Renown provider to enroll. With a MyChart account, they will be able to login and schedule their first vaccine appointment. These vaccines require two doses. After the first dose of the vaccine is documented in your MyChart account, you will get a notice to schedule your second dose. There are two easy ways to sign up for MyChart. Please see instructions in both English and Spanish. To schedule an appointment for a 16 or 17 year old: We have made special arrangements for minors ages 16 and 17. Please fill out this form, also found on https://covid.renown.org/vaccine/. Renown's Customer Engagement team will call the listed phone number within 14 business days to schedule the appointment. We appreciate your patience during this time as demand is high. Please note that a parent or guardian must accompany the teen when getting their vaccination. You are advised NOT to receive the vaccine if you: Are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness). Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. Have received any other vaccination in the last 14 days. Have a history of significant allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its ingredients. “Hometown Health is proud to be part of an organization offering COVID-19 vaccines to our community at no cost,” said David Hansen, CEO, Hometown Health. “The business community in northern Nevada is an important piece of the vaccination puzzle, and as a community-focused organization, we are pleased that Renown can safely offer vaccinations to local businesses and contribute to an increased hope for the future.”  Renown will provide additional updates on our websites at covid.renown.org. Please see b-roll, photos and fly-over footage of our Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic here.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include; Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath 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

Read More About Businesses: Get Employees Vaccinated Against COVID-19 for Free

Softheon and Hometown Health, Nevada's largest not-for-profit insurance company, have formed a partnership to serve Nevadans enrolling through Nevada Health Link state-based ACA marketplace. Nevada's largest not-for-profit health insurance company, Hometown Health, has entered the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and has expanded their health plan offerings through a partnership with Softheon, a leading cloud-based health insurance exchange and service provider. Softheon's innovative platform is helping bring quality health care to Nevada residents enrolling in Hometown Health insurance through Nevada Health Link. “Softheon’s expert knowledge of the ACA marketplace coupled with their leading enrollment and billing technology has made them the perfect partner during Hometown Health’s first open enrollment period on the exchange,” said David Hansen, Hometown Health CEO. “Today, more than 100,000 people in Nevada choose Hometown Health for their insurance needs. Thanks to Softheon, we look forward to expanding insurance coverage options, in a way that is simple and convenient, to our friends and families who use Nevada Health Link.” Since the beginning of the 2021 open enrollment period, over 800 new members have seamlessly enrolled in Hometown Health’s insurance thanks to Softheon’s cutting-edge software. The partnership with Softheon will improve member enrollment, billing and communications, enabling Hometown Health to remain focused on their core mission of providing excellent healthcare to Nevada residents. As the health insurance division of Renown Health, northern Nevada’s leading healthcare provider, Hometown Health offers members competitive rates and the largest network of providers in the region. Renown Health provides advanced medical services including Renown Regional Medical Center, an 808-bed full service regional hospital, Renown South Meadows Medical Center, a 76-bed acute care community hospital, Renown Children’s Hospital, the region’s only children’s hospital with 83 beds, and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, a 62-bed rehabilitation hospital. These facilities provide quality healthcare for Renown's primary service area, Washoe County and the secondary service areas of northern Nevada and northern California. Renown Health has more than 7,000 employees and serves northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California with a total population in excess of 2 million. In addition to hospitals, Renown also has 110 medical group practice sites, urgent care and outpatient imaging sites. Renown Health and Hometown Health offer advanced care for patients and embrace their role in improving the health and well-being of the people and communities. “The continued growth of the Affordable Care Act marketplace is welcome news for consumers who are seeking more options for accessing health coverage,” said Eugene Sayan, CEO and founder of Softheon. "We are excited to partner with Hometown Health on their entrance into the ACA marketplace to create seamless experiences for their members and connect more individuals in Nevada with quality health care.” Along with improving member enrollment, billing and communications, Softheon helps Hometown Health continue to ensure accuracy through monthly Advanced Premium Tax Credits premium reconciliation. The turnkey solution provided by Softheon has guided Hometown Health in handling all regulatory and operational requirements required of insurers in the ACA marketplace. The partnership has given Hometown Health the opportunity for expanded reach while making a bigger impact on communities across the state. To learn more about Softheon, visit www.softheon.com. To learn more about Hometown Health, visit www.hometownhealth.com.     About Softheon Founded in 2000, Softheon’s Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and Business Process-as-a-Service (BPaaS) solutions solve complex challenges for health plans and government health agencies. Currently, Softheon’s solutions serve 8 State agencies and over 90 health plans. Issuers and consumers utilizing Medicaid, Medicare, and the ACA Marketplace benefit from Softheon’s innovative technology that reduces administrative overhead and enhances user-experiences. Softheon is an Agent, Broker, and Merchant of Record that facilitates health insurance enrollment, billing, and renewal.   About Hometown Health Established in 1988, Hometown Health is the insurance division of Renown Health and is northern Nevada's largest local, not-for-profit health insurance company. Providing wide-ranging medical coverage and great service to members, Hometown Health represents a philosophy of health care that emphasizes active partnerships between members and physicians. For more information, call 775-982-3000 or visit www.hometownhealth.com.

Read More About Hometown Health Enters Affordable Care Act Marketplace

Beginning today, Renown Health has partnered with the Washoe County Health District to help distribute the initially available, limited supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. Renown announced today that they are able to immediately vaccinate 2,900 of the oldest adults in our community this week.  See photos and b-roll from today's first vaccinations of older adults here, as well as photos, b-roll and interview from Renown's past employee vaccination events. “We remain steadfast in our determination to fight the good fight for our community. Being able to administer COVID-19 vaccines to older adults in our community is incredibly gratifying for our team. The tragedy of COVID-19 is that the risk for severe illness with COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at highest risk. Our oldest adults are also at greater risk of requiring hospitalization or dying if diagnosed with COVID19,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. “The Renown team is pleased to help, with support of and the vaccine provided by the Washoe County Health District, to be part of the solution, and to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of others. We all look forward to the vaccine becoming more widely available to all in the coming weeks and months.”  In Washoe County alone, over 18% of the population is 65 years or older, with 88,456 in that age group and Renown is only receiving limited supplies of the vaccine Renown’s COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic is operating by appointment only, and is based on Renown’s ability to obtain the initially available, limited weekly supplies of vaccine. Those who are 70 years or older interested in joining the waiting list for an appointment at Renown’s Drive Thru COVID-19 vaccine clinic, will need to download Renown MyChart, if they currently do not have an account. Residents do not need to have a Renown Health provider and it is free to enroll. Residents will be notified through MyChart when more of the limited supply of vaccine is made available to Renown, and additional appointments are open for scheduling. Please do not contact a Renown doctor/health care provider at this time to schedule a vaccine appointment. Instead, all are encouraged to register for a Renown MyChart account if you have not already. Pending vaccine availability, Renown anticipates releasing its next round of appointments to a random sample of patients age 70 and older as early as next week, Monday, January 18 by 12 noon. No additional appointments are available for this week. All 2,900 appointments for this week have been made and confirmed.  You are advised not to receive the vaccine if:  You are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness). You have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. You have received any other vaccination in the last 14 days. You have a history of significant allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its ingredients. Due to unprecedented demand, Renown is coordinating with local and state agencies to ensure every person has an opportunity to receive the vaccine over time. Downloading MyChart is not a guarantee of an appointment.  The intricacies of vaccine administration Renown Health has been able to distribute and administer the COVID-19 vaccine to a record number of people in the shortest possible time. Much of this success is due to the use of a convenient patient electronic medical record, called EPIC MyChart, which allows people to be notified that the vaccine is available, schedule their appointments online, complete the consent form and have full documentation. In addition, the information automatically posts to Web IZ Nevada’s Statewide Immunization Information System.  Stay Up-to-date on COVID-19 Renown Health is prepared to safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illness, including COVID-19. To stay up-to-date on communications regarding Renown’s distribution of the COVID19 vaccine, FAQs and the scientific evidence behind the vaccine, visit https://covid.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. 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.

Read More About Renown Vaccinates 2,900 Older Adults This Week Against COVID-19

Renown Children’s Hospital pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Mitchell Strominger hosts state-wide virtual event to provide routine vison screenings for children and Walk with a Doc. Renown Children’s Hospital pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Mitchell Strominger is set to host a virtual Walk with a Doc event on Sunday, June 14 at 10 a.m. for elementary school children and their parents. During this free event, Dr. Strominger will give a brief, kid-friendly talk about the importance of routine vision screenings and show parents how to conduct a vision screening with their kids at home. He will close out the morning session with a live Q&A. Following the event, families are encouraged to get outside and enjoy a walk in the great outdoors. The event is sponsored by Renown Children’s Hospital and free to participants, however you must register to receive the link to attend. “Vision is important for learning, experiencing new things and interacting with others, which is why it’s critical for children to get vision screenings early and routinely,” said Dr. Strominger. “The best time to screen a child’s vision is kindergarten through third grade as the cells in the brain responsible for vision are continuously developing up until age eight. If we detect vision problems early, we here at Renown Children’s Hospital have the expertise and technology to correct these vision problems and enable children to live healthy, productive lives.” Individuals who register for this event will be emailed a vision-screening sheet to help facilitate an at-home screening, as well as a form to send back to their child’s pediatrician or pediatric ophthalmologist upon completion to determine the best course of action. Dr. Strominger added, “Many parents and schools have put off vision screenings due to COVID- 19 school closings, hesitations of safely leaving their homes or potential financial costs. I am pleased to host this virtual event on behalf of Renown Children’s Hospital, to engage kids and parents in a conversation on the importance of vision and to remind the community that we are here to help and provide the care they need, both in-person and virtually—be it over a smart phone, tablet or computer screen.” This virtual event will take place in the newly renovated Fianna’s Healing Garden which re-opens later this month and has been funded 100% by donations through the Renown Health Foundation. Located in the heart of Renown Regional Medical Center, the healing garden serves as place to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the outdoors. Dr. Strominger is one of 26 pediatric subspecialists recruited to Renown Children’s Hospital since 2016, thanks to the Pennington Foundation's $7.5 million donation made to the non-profit Renown Health Foundation to expand children’s health services. June marks the four-year anniversary of the Nevada Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (Nevada APP) participation in the national Walk with A Doc event. Dr. Strominger is the secretary and treasurer for the Nevada AAP. From pediatric specialties, 24/7 ER care and surgery, to imaging, pediatric ICU and child life specialists, Renown Children’s Hospital is dedicated to helping kids feel welcome, safe and well cared for. Through each visit, parents can expect the highest level of care for their child’s health and well-being from birth and beyond. To support Renown Children’s Hospital and help local children in need get access to vital health services like routine vision screenings, please visit the Renown Health Foundation.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, Renown Children’s Hospital, Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Elementary Schoolers: Take Part in Free Virtual Vision Screening

Renown Health's Dr. Christopher Rowan recently joined a distinguished panel of experts on the "Game Changers in Medicine" podcast to discuss the science behind the discovery of warfarin. Renown Health Cardiologist Dr. Christopher Rowan was just featured on an episode of Game Changers in Medicine, a groundbreaking medical history podcast from Dramatic Health about some of the world’s most significant medical discoveries. The episode, Warfarin: How a rat poison became one of the world's most widely prescribed drugs, dives into the fascinating history of Warfarin and its life-saving effects on humans.  During the episode, Dr. Rowan, whose research focus is heart disease and atherosclerosis, is joined by experts Kevin Walters, Historian and Strategic Research Coordinator at the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF); and Ramya M. Rajagopalan, Ph.D. of the Institute for Practical Ethics at UC San Diego. Listen to the episode now or download it wherever you listen to podcasts.  History of Warfarin Warfarin prevents blood clots from forming or expanding. The drug is especially important for individuals who have experienced a heart attack or stroke, or are at risk of experiencing either. However, the backstory of the drug is rather fascinating.  Beginning in the 1920s, an unknown disease was killing cattle throughout the U.S. and Canada. Desperate to find a solution, one farmer drove 200 miles to the University of Wisconsin with a dead cow, bales of spoiled hay and a milk can of unclotted blood in tow. He crossed paths with a scientist, whose team set out to determine the hemorrhagic component of the spoiled hay, resulting in a series of medical discoveries that would revolutionize medicine.  After learning more about Warfarin and how Vitamin K could reverse its blood thinning properties, doctors first prescribed the drug for human use in 1954. It is perhaps most widely known for saving President Dwight D. Eisenhower after he suffered a heart attack in 1955. Today, Warfarin continues to saves millions of lives each year. “Before blood thinners like Warfarin, people would experience strokes, blood clots in their lungs, blood clots in their legs, blood clots in their hearts, along with countless other clotting disorders - these conditions likely cutting their lifespans short,” Dr. Rowan said during the podcast. “Warfarin revolutionized the treatment of patients who suffer from heart attacks and strokes, helping them to live normal and healthy lives. The drug changed medicine forever and helped make incredible innovations such as mechanical heart valves a reality.” Interview Opportunity Dr. Rowan is available for interviews to discuss the importance of this unique medical discovery and the positive impact it has on many of the patients he treats every day. Please email news@renown.org or call 775-691- 7308 to coordinate an interview.      About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project® . For more information, visit renown.org. About Dramatic Health Dramatic Health, a national healthcare video company, is the producer of the six-part podcast series Game Changers in Medicine. The series premiered in July with an episode about Vitamin K and an enterprising Boston house doctor. The August episode showcased the creation of a smallpox vaccine and its parallels to today's urgent search for a COVID-19 vaccine. Game Changers in Medicine ranked #27 in Apple Podcasts: Life Sciences in the United States according to Chartable as of August 21, 2020. Both episodes, a series backgrounder, and additional material about the podcast series are available at www.gamechangersinmedicine.com and can be accessed wherever you listen to podcasts.

Read More About Renown Cardiologist Shares Insight on Warfarin

The “LOVE” sculpture, a one-ton, welded aluminum artwork with letters 10-feet tall and eight-feet wide, will find a temporary home at Renown Regional Medical Center’s main entrance at 1155 Mill Street in Reno, Nevada. Debuting at Burning Man in 2019, the free-standing structure is wired for illumination, has weighted steel base plates for anchorage and will be visible to vehicular and pedestrian traffic along the Mill Street and Ryland Street corridors.  “The overall footprint of the sculpture is 40-feet long by 4-feet deep,” says artist Jeff Schomberg, who has collaborated with artist/designer Laura Kimpton, to create 18 letter-based sculptures— including the popular “BELIEVE” piece at Civic Center Plaza in downtown Reno and the “HOME” sculpture for the Reno Aces at Greater Nevada Field. Each letter in the “LOVE” sculpture took Schomberg three to four weeks to build, and the piece takes on an added dimension when illuminated. “The sculpture is lit from within with color changing LED lights. The combination of the LEDs and the aluminum produce(s) a unique look at night,” Schomberg states.  Artist-designer Laura Kimpton, who is dyslexic, says creating monumental word art has been a powerful form of healing and expression. “I can’t tell you how beautiful it is that people will be able to see this work of art at the hospital, contemplate it and be inspired by it,” Kimpton emphasizes. For Artown, inspiring community through the arts is paramount—especially at this moment. “Artown is extremely honored to be able to provide comfort through our partnership with Renown and this incredible work of art by Laura Kimpton and Jeff Schomberg,” says Artown Executive Director Beth Macmillan. “This piece of art and the message of love during these uncertain times, promises to help enlighten, engage and heal the spirits of patients, physicians, nurses and employees at Renown who are fighting the good fight. People passing by the hospital will be warmed and inspired by the art and this one word, LOVE! Now, more than ever, the power of art will provide something beautiful to focus on and restore our confidence.” Providing comfort is in alignment with the non-profit healthcare provider’s mission “to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve…” and is in-step with Renown’s awareness that “during a patient’s most difficult moments, art can be a source of inspiration, comfort and strength.”  Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown says, “I have so much respect for artists like Laura and Jeff, and the way they connect with people through their art. Creating and installing this LOVE sculpture is an act of love they are doing for others. Caring for others and their emotions is also an art. I am inspired by the many passionate caregivers today practicing the art of medicine with patients within the walls of our hospitals, practices and homes. I know this work of art will inspire them. My appreciation goes out to all who helped bring this LOVE sculpture and bright light into our world. Art has been an inspiration to me for a long time and I hope that its beauty helps to bring inspiration and comfort to everyone who gets a chance to see it.”  Members of the media are invited to attend the inaugural lighting of the LOVE sculpture, taking place on Thursday, April 16 at 8 p.m. at the artwork’s new, temporary location at Renown. Due to social distancing, the lighting will NOT be open to the public, however, a live stream of the event will be available through Renown’s Facebook page. In an effort to shine a light on our healthcare workers, several area businesses and neighborhoods are lighting up in conjunction with the LOVE sculpture lighting. Individuals are invited to do the same by placing an enclosed candle or light outside their home.  The installation of the “LOVE” sculpture was funded by generous donors and the Renown Health Foundation. The sculpture will be on display from April 16-July 16 at Renown’s Regional Medical Center, located at 1155 Mill Street, Reno.   About Artown Artown is a non-profit organization whose mission is to strengthen Reno’s arts industry, foster its civic identity and enhance its national image, thereby creating a climate for the cultural and economic rebirth of our region. The month-long summer arts festival features approximately 500 events produced by more than 150 artists, cultural organizations and businesses in locations citywide. For more information, go to artown.org.  About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Artown Partners with Renown to Bring "Love" Sculpture on Mill St.

Endowment funds generate annual income, ensuring support for years to come. Pictured above: Dr. Max Coppes, Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Nell J Redfield Chair of Pediatrics, UNR Med; Dr. Kristina Deeter, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital; Becky Haase, RN, Director of Children’s Services at Renown Health; Emmalee Sutton, Renown Health's Children's Miracle Network Child Champion; Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis; Dixie May, Vice President at the Wilbur May Foundation; Dr. Thomas Graf, CEO of Renown and Larry Duncan, VP, Administrator, Renown Children’s Hospital. The Wilbur May Foundation recently announced a $5 million gift to Renown Health Foundation. This gift marks the first major donation to support the newly formed Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund.  Endowment funds are invested, and each year a portion of the fund’s income will be used as a steady stream of support for the Renown Children’s Hospital, while the rest of the return is re-invested to preserve and grow the original gift. As the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, Renown Children’s Hospital treats nearly 50,000 of our youngest community members every year, with a focus on keeping quality healthcare close to home. “Building a strong endowment is one of the most critical steps an organization, like Renown, can take to help see it through challenging times and periods of growth,” said Thomas Graf, MD, FAAFP, CEO of Renown. “An endowment is a permanent fund –— it is our key to continuously creating health. We will spend only the investment income we earn, this will allow us to have a dedicated stream of dollars to pay for the equipment and programs that we know our children need.” In honor of the Wilbur May Foundation’s extraordinary donation, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), currently under major renovation, will be named the Wilbur D. May NICU and PICU. These two major ICU units are moving from the Sierra Tower to the Tahoe Tower at Renown Regional Medical Center, home of Renown Children’s Hospital. “This endowment gives physicians and staff peace of mind knowing services and programs will continue to be readily available to families in our growing community,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital. “The generosity of the Wilbur May Foundation will impact care at Renown Children’s Hospital for generations.” The late Wilbur D. May was a northern Nevada rancher, businessman, world traveler and philanthropist. He had a deep and longstanding concern for the welfare and education of children. The Wilbur May Foundation – comprised of family relatives, including his daughter, Dixie May – continues to enhance Wilbur’s vision. The foundation has made numerous gifts to Renown Children’s Hospital over the years, including supporting the current PICU and children’s kidney dialysis program, among others.  “It’s an honor to work with community leaders and donors like Dixie May and the Wilbur May Foundation, and it’s our hope this announcement will inspire others in the community to Join the Good Fight and support children and families in our community,” said Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis.  To learn more about the Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund, or to contribute, visit renown.org/give or call Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545. ### About Renown Health  For more information, visit Renown Health is the region’s largest locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Wilbur May Foundation Donates Five Million Dollars to New Renown Children's Hospital Endowment Fund

PICTURED ABOVE: Members of the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health celebrate the first FARAPULSE™ procedure in Nevada on March 18, 2024. Physicians, nurses and clinicians at the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health have achieved a groundbreaking milestone as they successfully completed the first cardiac ablation procedure done in Nevada, utilizing the FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation System this past March. "Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as Afib or AF, is an irregular heartbeat caused by an abnormal heart rhythm that makes the upper heart chambers (the atria) quiver or fibrillate. It’s the most common heart rhythm irregularity—or cardiac arrhythmia—and it’s estimated that by 2030, 12.1 million people in the U.S. may have Afib,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, MBA, CEO of Renown Medical Group. “While Afib itself generally is not life-threatening, the complications from Afib can be very serious, as it can increase the risk for heart problems such as heart failure and stroke. We are pleased to introduce additional therapies that allow physicians to serve more patients, reduce complications and benefit overall public health.” "Our team takes immense pride in pioneering Nevada's first cardiac ablation procedure with the FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation System, an FDA-approved innovation for atrial fibrillation treatment,” said Shining Sun, MD, a board-certified cardiologist trained in the procedure, at the Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health. “This milestone represents a significant leap forward in cardiac care and underscores our commitment to advancing innovative treatments for atrial fibrillation, said Matthew Cain, MD, a board-certified cardiac electrophysiologist trained in the procedure. “We anticipate a significant reduction in anesthesia duration and wait times for patients undergoing this FDA-approved procedure due to its efficiency.” What is Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs when the top two chambers of the heart, the atria, beat too fast and with an irregular rhythm (fibrillation). AF, the most common type of arrhythmia, can decrease the heart’s pumping efficiency, which can cause blood cells to pool and stick together, forming clots in the heart, and lead to stroke. People with AF have a higher risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications than those with normal heart rhythms. AF affects nearly 2% of the general population worldwide, and approximately seven million Americans live with this arrhythmia. An estimated 38 million people globally have AF. About the FARAPULSE Pulsed Field Ablation System The FARAPULSE PFA System is a new alternative to standard-of-care thermal ablation. During a traditional ablation procedure, a catheter is guided to the interior of the heart and generates extreme temperatures – hot or cold – to destroy targeted areas in the heart associated with abnormal heart rhythms. The FARAPULSE PFA System relies on tissue selective, non-thermal electric fields to ablate heart tissue and avoid damage to surrounding structures. Positive 12-month data from the pivotal ADVENT clinical trial – the first randomized clinical trial to directly compare the efficacy and safety of the system against standard-of-care ablation – found that therapy with the device was as safe and effective as conventional thermal ablation, with statistically shorter ablation times and a quicker learning curve for physicians. Additional data from more than 17,000 patients demonstrated continued real-world safety of the system, with no reports of permanent phrenic nerve palsy, pulmonary vein stenosis or esophageal injury. Visit your primary care physician to hear more, or for a referral to the Renown Heart & Vascular Institute. If you would like a primary care physician or practitioner, please visit www.Renown.org or schedule an appointment by calling Renown’s customer service agents available by phone- Mon-Fri: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat-Sun: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 775-982-5000. Renown Regional Medical Center has been named #1 Hospital in Nevada by US News & World Report for the past three years as the best hospital for patients with complex, life-threatening, or rare conditions for the last two years and rated highest in NV in eight specialty areas including, Cancer; Cardiology & Heart Surgery; Diabetes & Endocrinology; Gastroenterology & GI Surgery; Nephrology; Neurology & Neurosurgery; Orthopedics; Pulmonology & Lung Surgery. Renown South Meadows Medical Center in south Reno has earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, the nation’s premier advocate of transparency in health care. This national distinction recognizes Renown Health’s national accomplishments in ensuring safe, high-quality hospital care for patients. B-roll footage of the cardiac ablation procedure utilizing the FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation System is provided by Boston Scientific® and available for media use here. 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.

Read More About Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Conducts First Farapulse™ Procedure In Nevada to Treat Atrial Fibrillation

After a year of possibly delayed colorectal cancer screenings due to theCOVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness for colorectal cancer. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month- a time to raise awareness for colorectal cancer and the importance of routine, life-saving screenings. Renown invites the community to join the organization in helping put an end to the preventable disease.  Blue is the designated color to bring awareness to colorectal cancer and those impacted by it. The iconic “LOVE” sculpture at the main entrance of Renown Regional Medical Center located at 1155 Mill Street in Reno, Nev. will shine brightly in blue each evening in March, serving as a visual reminder to passersby to schedule a colorectal screening. The Colorectal Cancer Alliance estimates 149,500 new cases of colon cancer will present in 2021 alone. While colorectal cancer may be the second deadliest cancer in men and women combined, it is also one of the most preventable cancers with screenings.  “Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been a decline in colorectal screenings nationwide,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We know early detection is key in preventing the spread of any cancer, and with regular screenings, we know colorectal cancer is easily detectable and treatable. As a cancer survivor, I know how important it is to get back on track with regular screenings and preventive care. Making your health a priority now will help you experience a healthier and brighter tomorrow.”   “We invite the community to join us at Renown in spreading awareness about colorectal cancer and its prevention,” said Susan Cox, director of cancer services at the Renown Institute for Cancer. “It takes all of us to put an end to colorectal cancer. If you’re up to date on your screenings, remind a loved one to schedule their next screening--as your reminder may have the power to save their life.” “Colorectal cancer usually forms from precancerous polyps, or abnormal growths, in the colon or rectum, which can become malignant without presenting any symptoms. Screening tests like stool tests, colonoscopies, and others can detect these precancerous polyps, so they can be removed by a physician before turning into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, resulting in better treatment outcomes,” says Christos Galanopoulos, M.D., MBA, oncologic surgeon, VP Renown Health & Chair of Surgery for Renown Health.   Dr. Galanopoulos adds, “Most people begin screening for colorectal cancer after turning 50. However, some individuals may begin screenings earlier if they have an increased risk of colorectal cancer, such as a family history with the disease. Regardless of one’s personal or family history of colorectal cancer, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the right time to begin your screenings.”  Max J. Coppes, MD, Cancer Center Director, Renown Institute for Cancer adds, “While routine screenings are the only way to determine colorectal health, some healthy habits may reduce your risk for colorectal cancer. These factors include maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, limiting alcohol intake and not smoking.”  Dr. Coppes explains that, “1 in 500 Americans will test positive for Lynch Syndrome, a genetic condition that raises your risk of colon cancer, endometrial cancer, and other cancers. It is also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. People with Lynch Syndrome are also susceptible to colon polyps at a younger age. The Healthy Nevada Project research team is looking at the occurrence of important inherited genetic variants in our population that increase the risk of certain diseases. These include Familial Hypercholesterolemia, Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome and Lynch Syndrome.” To enroll in The Healthy Nevada Project, a clinical study (saliva test) offering the opportunity to learn about your ancestry, diet insights and genetic risks linked to heart disease and certain cancers, including prevention strategies, at no cost, enroll here. For a limited time, Nevada residents may request a free DNA test kit that will be shipped to your home.  Renown experts encourage every adult to talk to their doctor about their colorectal cancer risk and screening options. Those looking to schedule a screening or establish care with a Renown primary care provider are invited to call us at 775-691-7308 or visit our website for more information.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and 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’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. 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®.

Read More About Awareness Saves Lives: Renown Goes Blue for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month