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Together, will test over 30,000 qualifying study participants by 2023 for risk of cirrhosis and liver-related illnesses. Renown Institute for Health Innovation (IHI) announced today that the organization and Gilead Sciences, Inc. will be joining forces with Siemens Healthineers to offer the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF™) Test to people with risks for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) enrolled in the Healthy Nevada Project (HNP). The ELF Test will help identify people most at risk for progressing to cirrhosis and liver-related outcomes and allow healthcare providers to intervene before irreparable damage occurs. This noninvasive blood test uses three serum biomarkers to create an ELF score from a predefined algorithm, which can be used by doctors to help evaluate if a patient requires increased medical care and monitoring for their condition. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which includes NASH, is prevalent in Nevada and under-diagnosed, likely affecting more than 500,000 adult Nevadans. If undetected and untreated, NASH can result in liver cirrhosis and may require liver transplantation or lead to death. There are more than 12,000 people on a waitlist for liver transplantation in the U.S. and this number continues to rise due to the increasing prevalence of NAFLD. “Thanks to important data collected through our Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Liver Disease Genome Atlas study, we now know that NASH is prevalent in the state of Nevada,” said Tony Slonim, M.D., DrPH, FACHE, president and CEO of Renown Health. “We are proud to expand our partnership with Gilead and begin working with Siemens Healthineers to improve health of those with liver disease and to take early detection one step further by offering Enhanced Liver Fibrosis, ELF testing for patients of Renown Health. This test provides our team of highly-skilled physicians an advanced, noninvasive method to actively assess dynamic liver fibrosis in study participants and intervene whenever necessary, contributing to a healthier Nevada.”  “Gilead believes that noninvasive tests, including the ELF Test, will help improve the experience of people living with NASH. These tests may help to diagnose liver disease, monitor disease progression and evaluate responses to treatment without the requirement for liver biopsy,” said Rob Myers, MD, Vice President, Liver Fibrosis Clinical Research at Gilead Sciences. “The ELF Test has proven itself to be a valuable tool in NASH management and we hope this partnership will further support its use in routine care.”  “We are very pleased that NASH patients in the Healthy Nevada Project now have access to the ELF Test which offers clinically useful prognostic information for their condition with the convenience of a simple blood test. Using our advanced laboratory expertise together with Renown IHI and Gilead, we can work towards better understanding of NASH and liver disease in a representative patient population,” said Sebastian Kronmueller, Head of Molecular Diagnostics at Siemens Healthineers. “We launched the Healthy Nevada Project to help people understand more about their health, to identify serious health risks, and to give people access to innovations like the ELF Test, so they can live their best lives,” said Renown’s chief scientific officer, Dr. Joseph Grzymski, who is also a research professor at the Desert Research Institute and principal investigator of the Healthy Nevada Project. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to report clinical findings to help our 50,000 volunteer study participants, and to assist healthcare providers in helping their patients.” The provision of the ELF Test builds on a previously announced strategic collaboration between the Renown IHI and Gilead in July 2019. This ongoing partnership aims to collect and analyze de-identified genetic and electronic health data from 60,000 qualifying study participants to enhance the understanding of NAFLD and NASH and to potentially inform development of treatment options for these diseases.  About NAFLD and NASH NAFLD is a build-up of fat in the liver of people who do not have a history of alcohol misuse. It is normal for the liver to contain some fat, but if more than 5 percent of the liver content is fat, it’s considered a fatty liver (steatosis). NASH is the most severe form of NAFLD in which a person has liver cell damage and inflammation of the liver. Inflammation and liver cell damage can cause fibrosis, or scarring of the liver, and can cause decreased liver function (1). The symptoms of NASH are often silent or non-specific, making it difficult to diagnose. About one-third of people with NASH develop cirrhosis or irreversible liver damage (2). About the ELF™ Test The ELF Test is a noninvasive blood test that can quickly identify which patients are at an elevated risk for developing cirrhosis and other liver-related clinical events (LREs). In contrast to standard liver enzyme tests that reflect liver damage that has already occurred, the ELF Test combines three serum direct biomarkers of active fibrosis. The ELF Test algorithm measures each of these biomarkers to create an ELF score, which can be used as an aid to assess the risk for future disease progression. Doctors may use this ELF score to help evaluate if a patient requires increased medical care and monitoring for their condition. Individuals interested in determining their risk for NASH and its progression are encouraged to enroll in the Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Liver Disease Genome Atlas study. Those who have already consented and participated in the study will be contacted with more information on how to receive an ELF blood test. For more information or to enroll, please contact RenownIHI@renown.org or (775) 982-6914. The Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF™) Test kit is not available for sale in the U.S. Product availability may vary from country to country and is subject to varying regulatory requirements.  In the U.S., the ELF Testing Service is available from Siemens Healthcare Laboratory, LLC (SHL), a CLIA-certified laboratory located in Berkeley, Calif. The ELF Testing Service, including the establishment of performance characteristics, was developed by SHL. The ELF Test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. SHL is regulated under CLIA as qualified to perform high complexity testing. The ELF Test is used for clinical purposes and should not be regarded as investigational use only or research use only. 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 Health, 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 the Renown Institute for Health Innovation Renown Institute for Health Innovation is a collaboration between Renown Health - a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California; and the Desert Research Institute - a recognized world leader in investigating the effects of natural and human-induced environmental change and advancing technologies aimed at assessing a changing planet. Renown IHI research teams are focused on integrating personal healthcare and environmental data with socioeconomic determinants to help Nevada address some of its most complex environmental health problems; while simultaneously expanding the state’s access to leading-edge clinical trials and fostering new connections with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Learn more at healthynv.org. Renown Health is Nevada’s most comprehensive and integrated healthcare network and maintains electronic health records for 1.02 million registered patients. In 2016, Renown Health and the Desert Research Institute established the Healthy Nevada Project (HNP), the nation’s first community-based population health study. In 2017 HNP began a partnership with Helix to leverage its population health services, Exome+™ sequencing, and consumer engagement tools. The HNP is now an ongoing collaboration between Renown IHI, the Desert Research Institute, a global leader in environmental data and applied research, and Helix, a personal genomics company. HNP combines genetic, environmental, social and clinical data to address individual and community health needs with the goal of improving health across the state and the nation. The HNP currently has over 60,000 participants. For more information, visit healthynv.org.  About Siemens Healthineers Siemens Healthineers AG (listed in Frankfurt, Germany: SHL) is shaping the future of Healthcare. As a leading medical technology company headquartered in Erlangen, Germany, Siemens Healthineers enables healthcare providers worldwide through its regional companies to increase value by empowering them on their journey towards expanding precision medicine, transforming care delivery, improving the patient experience, and digitalizing healthcare. Siemens Healthineers is continuously developing its product and service portfolio, with AI-supported applications and digital offerings that play an increasingly important role in the next generation of medical technology. These new applications will enhance the company’s foundation in in-vitro diagnostic, image-guided therapy, and in-vivo diagnostics. Siemens Healthineers also provides a range of services and solutions to enhance healthcare providers ability to provide high-quality, efficient care to patients. In fiscal 2020, which ended on September 30, 2020, Siemens Healthineers, which has approximately 54,000 employees worldwide, generated revenue of €14.5 billion and adjusted EBIT of €2.2 billion. Further information is available at www.siemens-healthineers.com.Media Contact for Siemens Healthineers: Lance LongwellM: 610-448-6341E: lance.longwell@siemens-healthineers.com

Read More About Renown Institute Expands Partnership to Offer ELF Testing

A major community investment in health care facilities to transform care, improve economy and enhance the quality of life for generations to come. Renown Health announced today $469 million in planned investments, including hospital campus improvements and new health care facilities across northern Nevada to meet the growing community need over the next three years. “Renown Health has a rich 158-year history in serving 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 James DeVolld, Board Chair, “The transformation of our hospital campuses represents one of the single largest investments in health care facilities, services and programs in the state, and are a result of putting people first to enhance health care access, experiences, outcomes and affordability for everyone in our community. This will improve care and it will have a tremendous, positive effect on our local and statewide economy."  “Like those we serve, we have experienced many challenges in 2020,” says Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO, Renown Health. “These challenges confirmed the critical role that Renown plays as a locally-owned, not-for-profit integrated health network. We are passionate about stepping up to serve our community at all times, and especially when we are needed most. We are transforming to meet the needs of our growing community today- and for the future.” GROWING FOR THE COMMUNITY Over the last two years, given significant consumer demand for Renown providers and services, a master facilities planning process was undertaken to ensure that Renown has adequate bed and procedure capacity, spaces to accommodate new technology and services to meet the needs of a growing patient base and community.  “Renown’s campuses will be innovative, convenient, safe and compassionate places to provide and receive care, incorporating modern efficiencies in a healing environment, says Dawn D. Ahner, DSc, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer, Acute Services at Renown. “Designed for patients, visitors and team members, these spaces will 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 healthy, sustainable buildings and interiors.” Today, the population of Washoe County, now at 473,156 people, has experienced staggering growth of 12.28% over the last 10 years, from 2010 to 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Nevada ranks as one of the top fastest-growing states in the country, with 15.21% growth over the last ten years. BENEFITS OF MASTER FACILITY PROJECT To alleviate current capacity constraints, allow for expansion and new services, a number of aging facilities will be replaced and new patient care areas will be constructed. Overall, the master facilities project enhances the clinical care model, enhances the experience for patients, families and staff and improves the infrastructure of the physical plant. COMPONENTS: RENOWN REGIONAL TAHOE TOWER BUILD OUT & RENOVATION; REGIONAL SIERRA RENOVATION Renown Children’s Hospital at Renown Regional Medical Center, 1155 Mill St., Reno, NV An expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with increased capacity from 39 current to 49 bassinets on Level 5 of Tahoe Tower of Renown Medical Center. An expanded Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with increased capacity from 11 to 16 private patient and family rooms on Level 5 of the Tahoe Tower of Renown Regional Medical Center. A new Renown Children's Hospital in-patient floor with improvements, upgrades and increased capacity from 33 to 38 private patient and family rooms with a total capacity of 58 pediatric beds on Level 4 of Tahoe Tower of Renown Regional Medical Center. Renown Regional Medical Center, 1155 Mill St., Reno, NV Renown Regional Tahoe Tower Build Out & Renovation A new surgical trauma Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on Level 9 in the Tahoe Tower, increasing capacity to 34 private patient rooms. Improvements and upgrades for Levels 3, 6, 7, 8, of Tahoe Tower. Improvement of 'family zone' within patient rooms; addition of USB capabilities, furnishings. New Respite room for health care team. Upgraded technology/infrastructure to improve collaboration between caregivers and family members. Improvement in lighting, with dimmable options for patient rooms and LED/sustainable improvements. Renown Regional Sierra Tower Renovation Improvements and upgrades for the Sierra Tower Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Level 1, Sierra Tower. Improvements and upgrades for an Adult Transitional Care Unit and Medical/Surgical Unit on Level 4 of Sierra Tower. Renown Regional Material Management and Kitchen Building Renown Regional CUP (Central Utility Plant) Building RENOWN SOUTH MEADOWS RENOVATION & SPECIALTY CARE CENTER Renown South Meadows Medical Center, 10101 Double R Blvd, Reno, NV A new façade, entry canopy and upgrade of lobby and public spaces, including a new Family Lounge. Improvements and upgrades for Medical Center, Levels 1, 2, 3 with private patient/family rooms, USB capabilities, furnishings. Welcome Lounges for patients and families, Respite room for health care team. Expansion of surgery minor procedures room. Operating room enhancements, technology integration and lounges. Improvement in lighting, with dimmable options for patient room areas, LED/sustainable improvements. Improvements, upgrades and new services to the South Meadows Medical Office Building including imaging, surgical pre-admission lounge and expanded Outpatient Therapy space. A new Ambulatory Center adjacent to surgery for convenient procedural care. A new Specialty Care Center. Level 1 will feature kitchen/dining facilities, expanded laboratory and diagnostic services, including Interventional Radiology and a new Cardiac Catheterization Lab. Level 2 will feature an Ambulatory Surgery Center and expanded sterile processing department.  “Structural quality and resiliency are of utmost importance as we are designing our facilities for extreme weather conditions that our region may face,” says Steve Horn, Vice President, Real Estate and Facilities. “As environmental stewards, we are designing the rooms in ways that reduce energy needs, allow for natural light and comfortable temperatures. The interior design will have healing and comfort at the forefront with thoughtful places for reflection, architecture, healing art and views that inspire.” Sy Johnson, MBA, chief of staff for Renown added, “We are working tirelessly to improve the health- and the lives- of thousands of people for the better, to care for people both in sickness and in health, and to provide better quality health and healthcare services in modern, convenient and attractive facilities, at a lower cost and with improving access to services.”  THE TEAM The planning and design team for the Renown master facilities project includes a number of locally-owned businesses, as well as veteran and female-owned businesses.  Leading Architect: Perkins + Will, Chicago, IL For more than sixty-five years, Perkins and Will’s vision and compassion have helped shape many of the nation’s most progressive academic medical centers, research institutions, community hospitals, and clinics. The breadth and quality of their diverse, global portfolio have consistently placed them among the leading healthcare firms in the world. Leading Engineer: WSP, Montreal, CA WSP provides complete healthcare consulting services in the design of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, building technology and fire protection systems; with a focus on sustainable and high performance building design.  Structural Engineer: Datum, San Antonio, TX Datum has an 80-year history providing engineering services for a large variety of projects types. Datum has an experienced team whose tenures with the firm averages more than 20 years.  Electrical Engineer: PK Electrical, Reno, NV, Female-Owned Business PK Electrical, Inc. is a self-performing, female-owned electrical engineering firm providing complete electrical and low voltage design for power, lighting, communications, medium voltage distribution, and emergency power systems. Mechanical Engineer: Ainsworth Associates, Reno, NV Representing a body of work spanning more than seven decades, Ainsworth Associates Mechanical Engineers has built a solid foundation for quality in design for even the most complex building requirements. Civil Engineer: Wood Rodgers, Reno, NV Wood Rodgers has a long standing history partnering with Renown Health. With just under 100 employees in their Reno office alone, they bring local expertise in land planning, civil and geotechnical engineering, surveying, and mapping to better the community we call home.  Traffic Study: Headway Transportation, Reno, NV Headway Transportation was founded in 2010 to provide clients exceptional service and value across all facets of transportation planning & traffic engineering. They have extensive experience across northern Nevada.  Medical Equipment: Covalus, Medical Equipment, Veteran-Owned Small Business Covalus is a veteran-owned small business (VOSB) specializing in healthcare construction management and initial outfitting and transition. In the past twenty years, Covalus has become one of the leading national firms in planning, budgeting, and executing healthcare and other facility projects, working for government, academic, and private institutions across 32 states and 5 countries. Renown has secured long-term financing for this master facilities project. Renown has engaged a firm to coordinate the bidding process in order to be transparent and unbiased in the selection process. Construction is slated to begin in spring 2021 with a majority of the project completed by fall 2023.   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 Health, 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, www.renown.

Read More About Renown Announces $469 Million in Planned Investments

The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health are pleased to announce the accreditation of a new three-year Pediatrics Residency Program with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The inaugural cohort of pediatric residents will start next summer, in July of 2023. The new residency will help shape future pediatric practices – and fill a state and nation-wide physician specialist shortage. Over a three-year period, four newly trained physicians will be selected each year for a total complement of twelve residents. “Creating a Pediatric Residency Program for our community has been a dream more than five years in the making,” says Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, former Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the UNR Med and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Currently, UNR Med students interested in becoming pediatricians must leave the area to complete their residency training elsewhere. The William N. Pennington Foundation has paved the way for this program, which will create a pipeline of much-needed pediatricians for our state, especially in under-served and rural areas – to serve vulnerable children and families of Nevada with high-quality, affordable care.” The vision to grow pediatric services into a full-fledged children’s hospital with a robust academic department of pediatrics in Reno began in 2014 when Renown Health and UNR Med agreed to recruit an academic pediatrician who would serve both as Chair of Pediatrics at UNR Med and as Pediatrician-in-Chief of Renown Children’s Hospital. The Nell J. Redfield Foundation donated $1.5M towards this initiative and expressed the hope to see a pediatric residency program established for the community. After the recruitment of Dr. Max Coppes for this role in 2016, The William N. Pennington Foundation recognized the need for enhanced care and expertise for pediatrics and donated $7.5 million to Renown Children’s Hospital to establish the William N. Pennington Fund for Advanced Pediatric Care. Through these gifts, 100,000 area children now have access to more than 15 specialized pediatricians, including those specializing in oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology, emergency medicine, urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30%of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to donor support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Melissa Piasecki, MD, Acting Dean of UNR Med and Chief Academic Officer for Renown, explains, “Residencies are specialty training programs for doctors after they graduate from medical school. Before becoming licensed physicians, medical school graduates train for three or more years learning from more experienced attending physicians.” She adds, “This new residency is a tremendous step forward for the UNR Med and Renown Health affiliation – and for our entire community. This pediatric residency program advances a mutual commitment to recruit and retain skilled and compassionate physicians and healthcare professionals, improve access to healthcare and invest in clinical research that improves the health of this generation and the next. Within the UNR Med andRenown affiliation, we created an integrated Graduate Medical Education Consortium Council (GME-CC) to provide strategic oversight and growth of residency programs within the affiliation. In this agreement, UNR Med is the sponsoring institution for accreditation and Renown Health and the VA are the clinical training partners. The process moved so smoothly; within six months of the affiliation, the GME-CC voted to support a new pediatric residency. This is a great addition to our existing residencies at UNR Med, which include family medicine, internal medicine, psychiatry and behavioral sciences, and provides our students with a great training opportunity in pediatrics.” Nevada faces a severe physician workforce shortage, ranking 45th in the nation for active physicians per 100,000 people. The physician workforce shortage is especially critical for pediatricians, with Nevada ranking 47th in the country with fewer than 10 pediatricians for every 100,000 people. The northern Nevada community is growing rapidly and Washoe County faces additional pediatrician shortages as local physicians approach retirement. “This new residency is an opportunity to train the next generation of pediatricians who will want to continue providing care in northern Nevada,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Interim UNR Med Chair of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Our community continues to grow. This new pediatric residency-training program will allow Nevada to have a supply of outstanding, compassionate physicians, now and into the future. With our exceptional team of existing pediatricians, pediatric specialists, medical teams and support staff, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and rewarding educational experience for our trainees.” “It truly is a dream come true. We are indebted to the comprehensive team that has built the structure, recruited faculty to support the training program and successfully recruited a Program Director, Dr. Caroline Barangan, and Associate Program Director, Dr. Shilpi Garg, a 2012 UNR Med alumna,” says Lawrence Duncan, MS, VP and Administrator for Renown Women & Children’s Hospital. “Between now and summer 2023, we will add the foundational pieces needed to ensure the success of the program including recruiting a Chief Resident, ongoing faculty development and ensuring that all components are in place for recruiting, teaching, supervising and mentoring residents.” “One of the main obstacles for increasing the number of physicians to care for our growing community is the relative lack of pediatric residency programs in the state and the absence of a program in northern Nevada. Residency programs in pediatrics recruit and train students completing medical school and seeking residency training to become a pediatrician,” says Caroline Barangan, MD, Pediatric Residency Program Director, Renown Health and UNR Med. “Workforce research consistently shows that students who complete a residency tend to stay and practice in the communities where they completed their residency training program. For those who complete medical school and residency in the same place, over 75% stay to practice in that community.” “In August, recognizing the need to grow the state’s physician workforce in high-needs specialties, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak and the Office of Science, Innovation and Technology announced the funding of five graduate medical education residency and fellowship programs, including $870,433 for the UNR Med Pediatrics Residency Program,” said Christine Bosse, Chief Government Affairs Officer for Renown Health. “Nevada produces more undergraduate medical students than it has available residencies and fellowships. Additionally, Nevada lacks fellowships in some specialties that are of interest to students. As a result, many highly educated students must leave the state for further training at a time when they are beginning real-world application of their advanced education. We appreciate that the GME Grant funding will assist the state and our community, in attracting, educating and retaining more doctors for Nevada.” “This new community-based program will provide residents with a strong foundation in primary care pediatrics as well as broad, in-depth exposure to all pediatric subspecialties. This will create graduates equally well prepared for careers in general pediatric practice, service to the state’s rural and underserved communities or in academics," adds David Carlson, MD, UNR Med Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education, Designated Institutional Officer. “Through the program, pediatric residents will spend their 36-month residency focused on children’s care and complete a primary care-focused clinical training program with rotations that allow them to learn while caring for children in both inpatient and outpatient settings with supervising pediatricians and pediatric specialists at Renown Children’s Hospital.” “The Pediatrics Residency Program is a wonderful opportunity to continue a tradition of academic excellence alongside Renown Health’s record of clinical excellence,” said Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno. “This is one more way our affiliation, signed in 2021 to establish the first fully integrated health system in Nevada, is helping to expand clinical training and clinical research programs as well as improve access to clinical care for all Nevadans.” “We are proud to partner with UNR Med to bring this new residency program to our community,” says Thomas Graf, MD, interim Chief Executive Officer, Renown Health, “Attracting and retaining talent is a key component of our drive for excellence as a care leader and our mutual goal of improving the health of our community. We are fortunate to have the strong infrastructure necessary to create this program and a team of highly-skilled physicians who can train the next generation of pediatricians.” For the 2023 residency application cycle, UNR Med will participate in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and encourages applicants to visit the UNR Med GME website for more information.  About UNR Med The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), Nevada’s first public medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Since 1969, UNR Med has trained more than 3,900 students, residents and fellows. UNR Med continues to improve the health and well-being of all Nevadans and their communities through excellence in student education, postgraduate training and clinical care, research with local, national and global impact and a culture of diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit med.unr.edu. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Approval of New Pediatric Physician Residency Program Helps Improve Care for Children and Families in Nevada

Recognized as national leader in LGBTQ+ care by Human Rights Campaign Foundation for 2022 All people who need medical care should be able to see their doctor or have a hospital visit without worrying about being mistreated, harassed or denied service outright. Data from the national CAP survey shows that LGBTQ+ people experience discrimination in healthcare settings; and that discourages them from seeking needed care. These results highlight the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ people from discrimination in healthcare. Renown Health and UNR Med caregivers, supported by community LGBTQ+ and Transgender Allies and partners, are working to bridge the gap for LGBTQ+ patients and families, and to become a more inclusive organization. This week, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation recognized Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nev. as the first and only hospital in Nevada designated with a perfect score, and at the highest level of support as “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader.” The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) is the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey of healthcare facilities on policies and practices dedicated to the equitable treatment and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees. We constantly strive to be among the best in the nation for quality, safety and patient experience," said Dr. Thomas Graf, interim CEO and Chief Clinical and Quality Officer. "This recognition confirms what the Renown Health team is dedicated to – providing the best patient care possible. Quality and safety are the responsibility of every employee and physician at Renown, and we are proud that the Renown Regional Medical Center team has been chosen among the best in the state and nation for our commitment to LGBTQ+ patient-centered care.” “Renown Health is proud to join the state of Nevada, which also earned top rankings on the Human Rights Campaign State Equality Index, and the City of Reno on the Municipal Equity Scorecard for LGBTQ+ equality,” said Sy Johnson, MBA, interim president and Chief of Staff. “The Human Rights Campaign HEI offers a powerful way for organizations to affirm that they are committed to LGBTQ+ patient-centered care and extend non-discrimination protections to our LGBTQ+ employees, who play a key role in ensuring sensitive, knowledgeable LGBTQ+ care.” “We at UNR Med are so proud to be partners with Renown in this effort,” said Nicole Jacobs, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)Associate Dean, Diversity and Inclusion; Clinical Psychologist / Professor; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UNR Med. “The designation of being an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equity Leader demonstrates Renown’s strong commitment to advancing equitable healthcare in Nevada, our core and shared values and our shared mission of addressing the healthcare disparities in our backyards.” A record 906 healthcare facilities actively participated in the 2022 HEI survey and 496 of those earned an “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Equality Leader” designation. Renown Regional Medical Center is the first and only hospital in Nevada recognized by the Human Rights Campaign. No other hospitals in the state met their stringent standards for the 2021 rankings. “Every person deserves to have access to quality healthcare, be respected and heard by their doctor and feel safe in the facility where they are receiving care,” said Tari Hanneman, (she/her) Director of Health & Aging at The Human Rights Campaign. “The Healthcare Equality Index, at its core, strives to ensure LGBTQ+ people are protected and affirmed by their healthcare providers and feel safe seeking services. Our HEI active participants are truly pioneering the healthcare industry by implementing robust, comprehensive LGBTQ+ inclusive policies that hopefully, because of their work, will become standard practice The HEI evaluates and scores healthcare facilities on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars: Foundational Policies and Training in LGBTQ+ Patient-Centered Care LGBTQ+ Patient Services and Support Employee Benefits and Policies Patient and Community Engagement Suzanne Hendery, MA, APR, Chief Customer Officer, who led Renown’s application process, noted the remarkable progress reflected in the team 2022 HEI submission includes: Updated Medical Records with Preferred Name and Pronouns. Kathleen Zaski, BSN, RN, Director of IT Applications explains why this is so important. “Your name and identity are core to who you are as a person, and here at Renown, we aim to take care of you as a whole person and to provide the highest level of quality care to our community – all while ensuring the experience is exceptional and tailored to the individual. Our medical records system supports our doctors, nurses and care team in capturing this vital information. We are now able to capture every person’s preferred name, sex and sexual orientation to better care for them.” Allowing visitation without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity. Whitney Hansen, PhD, Director of Service Excellence says, “I know how important it is to our patients and their families that Renown serves our entire community and that we provide a welcoming, safe space and sense of belonging to all. We are proud of Renown’s visitor policy, inspired by family members, who requested that the policy encourage two family members per day be able to visit a loved one hospitalized at Renown.” Gender Neutral Restrooms. Chris Baker, CHFM, Director Facilities Engineering, whose team has created over 48 gender-neutral restrooms across Renown says, “Ensuring that private restrooms are equally available to everyone on our campus is just one way we can provide a more inclusive, caring space for the people we serve.” In addition, Renown clinicians and caregivers received recognition in the following areas: Every staff member receives training in LGBTQ+ patient-centered care Both “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” are included in both the patient non-discrimination policy and in Renown’s employment nondiscrimination policy Offering transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits to employees and members of Renown’s not-for-profit health plan, Hometown Health Providing substantial support and awarding grants to area organizations addressing diversity and inclusion, LGBTQ+ community Pride events and collaboration with LGBTQ+ organizations as an ally “I’m extremely proud of the people I get to work with every day who make achievements like this possible, says Brian Colonna CHC, CHPC, CHRC, Director of Compliance. “This is a meaningful designation, said Bethany Sexton, MA, Chief Transformation Officer. “I feel so proud to be part of a team and organization that helps translate our mission as an organization into action that matters for every member of our community.” Mitch Harper, Director of Network Performance, said, “We have just begun on this journey. We recognize there is still so much more to improve upon in becoming an inclusive organization. We are working to create a safe and welcoming environment for our community and our employees. Access to basic human services should not be contingent on an individual’s skin color, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or beliefs.” Sean Savoy, Manager of Spiritual Care at Renown said, “Good news indeed! So glad that Renown Health has achieved this milestone with HRC – a leader in civil rights for sexual orientation-gender identity minorities. I look forward to the continuing work around striving to achieve clinical equity, cultural competency, and respect for our LGBTQIA patients and employees.” For more on LBGTQ+ care and providers at Renown, visit renown.org/diversity/lbgtq-at-renown/ Join the Renown team Renown Health is now hiring key roles in our organization to support the health and well-being of our community. To join the Renown family to Fight the Good Fight, apply on line at careers.renown.org/ About the Human Rights Campaign Foundation The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Regional Named Health Equity Leader for Nevada

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

The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health are pleased to announce members of the first resident class of the new UNR Med Pediatric Residency Program. The four new Pediatric Residents will be working at Renown Children’s Hospital and in Renown outpatient pediatric clinics starting on July 1, 2023. The following four residents have matched.    Megan Dinges  Megan spent her childhood in Omaha, attending college at the University of Nebraska and medical school at the Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Iowa. Megan is a passionate patient advocate with clinical care experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant and ICU tech prior to medical school. She has been a leader amongst peers and volunteered in a homeless shelter working with children. Megan is a first-generation college graduate.  Jason Lundy, DO  Dr. Lundy was raised in California, attending UC Santa Barbara for undergraduate school, and completing graduate school at San Diego State University with a Chemistry degree. He completed his medical training at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine and is currently doing a preliminary intern year in surgery in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jason realized that his true love is Pediatrics after having two small children of his own.  Krista Luntsford, DO  Dr. Luntsford graduated from the Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine with her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) in 2022 and is currently completing a transitional year in surgery in New Jersey. Notably, she was awarded the Gold Humanism Award, served in student government, and led the Pediatrics Club in medical school. Originally from Washington state, she is excited to return to the west coast. Erin Whepley  Erin grew up in Kansas, attended the University of Puget Sound for undergraduate school and will be graduating with her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine this spring. Erin is resilient and inspiring and has always known that she wants to serve others through pediatrics.  These four newly trained physicians will be the inaugural members and first class of the new three-year Pediatrics Residency Program with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) that announced last September. The residency will help shape future pediatric practices – and fill a state and nation-wide physician specialist shortage. Over a three-year period, four physicians will be selected each year for a total complement of twelve residents over a three-year period.  “This new residency is an opportunity to train the next generation of pediatricians who will want to continue providing care in northern Nevada,” said Kristina Deeter, M.D., MBA, FAAP, UNR Med Chair of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Our community continues to grow. This new Pediatric residency-training program allows Nevada to have a supply of outstanding, compassionate physicians, now and into the future. With our exceptional team of existing pediatricians, pediatric specialists, medical teams and support staff, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and rewarding educational experience for our trainees.” “Creating a Pediatric Residency Program for our community has been a dream more than five years in the making,” says Dr. Deeter, “Formerly, UNR Med students interested in becoming pediatricians had to leave the state to complete their residency training elsewhere. This program creates a pipeline of much needed pediatricians for our state-especially under-served and rural areas – to serve vulnerable children and families of Nevada with high quality, affordable care.”  The vision to grow pediatric services into a full-fledged Children’s Hospital with a robust Department of Pediatrics as academic partner in Reno began in 2014. Today, 100,000 area children now have access to more than 60 pediatricians, including those specializing in adolescent medicine; anesthesia; cardiology; craniofacial surgery; dentistry; ear, nose and throat conditions; emergency medicine; endocrinology; gastroenterology;  general pediatrics; hospitalist medicine; intensive care; neonatology; neurology; oncology; ophthalmology;  orthopedics; psychiatry; psychology; pulmonology; surgery; urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30% of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Paul Hauptman, MD, Dean of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, and Chief Academic Officer for Renown, explains, “Residencies are specialty training programs for doctors after they graduate from medical school. Before becoming licensed physicians, medical school graduates train for three or more years learning from more experienced ‘attending’ physicians.”  He adds, “Our new pediatric residency program is a tremendous step forward for the UNR Med and Renown Health affiliation- and for our entire community. It advances a mutual commitment to recruit and retain skilled and compassionate physicians and health care professionals, improves access to health care, and invests in clinical research that improves the health of this generation and the next. Within the UNR Med-Renown affiliation, we created an integrated Graduate Medical Education Consortium Council (GME-CC) to provide strategic oversight and growth of residency programs within the affiliation. In this agreement, UNR Med is the sponsoring institution for accreditation and Renown Health (and the VA) is the clinical training partner. This is a great addition to our existing residencies at UNR Med, which include family medicine, internal medicine, psychiatry and behavioral sciences, and provides our students with a great training opportunity in pediatrics.” Nevada’s shortage; ranks 45th for physicians and 47th in the U.S. for pediatricians.  Nevada faces a severe physician workforce shortage, ranking 45th in the nation for active physicians per 100,000 people. The physician workforce shortage is especially critical for pediatricians, with Nevada ranking 47th in the country with fewer than 10 pediatricians for every 100,000 people. The northern Nevada community is growing rapidly and Washoe County faces additional pediatrician shortages as local physicians approach retirement.  “It truly is a dream come true. Dr. Deeter and I are indebted to the comprehensive team that has built the structure, recruited faculty to support the training program and successfully recruited a Program Director, Dr. Caroline Barangan, and Associate Program Director, Dr. Shilpi Garg, a 2012 UNR Med alumna (’12), and Pediatric Residency Coordinator, Jorge Pulido-Rubio. Their hard work and time spent has ensured a successful match.” says Lawrence Duncan, M.S., VP and Administrator for Renown Women & Children’s Hospital.  “Residency programs in pediatrics recruit and train students completing medical school and seeking residency training to become a pediatrician,” says Caroline Barangan, MD, Pediatric Residency Program Director, Renown Health and UNR Med. “Workforce research consistently shows that students who complete a residency tend to stay and practice in the communities where they completed their residency training program. For those who complete medical school and residency in the same place, over 75% stay to practice in that community.” “This new community-based program will provide residents with a strong foundation in primary care pediatrics as well as broad, in-depth exposure to all pediatric subspecialties. This will create graduates equally well prepared for careers in general pediatric practice, service to the state’s rural and underserved communities or in academics," adds David Carlson, MD, UNR Med Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education; Designated Institutional Officer. “Through the program, pediatric residents will spend their 36-month residency focused on children’s care and complete a primary care-focused clinical training program with rotations that allow them to learn while caring for children in both inpatient and outpatient settings with supervising pediatricians and pediatric specialists at Renown Children’s Hospital.”  “The Pediatrics Residency Program is a wonderful opportunity to continue a tradition of academic excellence alongside Renown Health’s record of clinical excellence,” said Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno. “This is one more way our affiliation, signed in 2021 to establish the first fully integrated health system in Nevada, is helping to expand clinical training and clinical research programs as well as improve access to clinical care for all Nevadans.”  “We are proud to partner with UNR Med to bring this new residency program to our community,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, Chief Executive Officer, Renown Health, “Attracting and retaining talent is a key component of our drive for excellence and our mutual goal of improving the health of our community. We are fortunate to have the strong infrastructure necessary to create this program and a team of highly-skilled physicians who can train the next generation of pediatricians.”  For the 2023 residency application cycle, UNR Medicine participated in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and encourages applicants to visit the UNR Med GME website for more information.  About the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), Nevada’s first public medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Since 1969, UNR Med has trained more than 3,900 students, residents and fellows. UNR Med continues to improve the health and well-being of all Nevadans and their communities through excellence in student education, postgraduate training and clinical care, research with local, national and global impact and a culture of diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit med.unr.edu. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,200 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently hiring exceptional members to join our team. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About First Pediatric Physician Residents Accepted Into New Program

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.

Read More About 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

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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