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David Hansen, MBA, joins Hometown Health to continue to serve future generations and improve the health and well-being of Nevadans Renown Health and Hometown Health are excited to announce David Hansen, MBA, is joining Hometown Health as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). In his role as CEO, Hansen will oversee Hometown Health, contributing to its growth to ensure the not-for-profit company is here for generations to come and to assist Renown in developing new care models that will deliver healthcare that is both accessible and affordable. “We are pleased to welcome such an experienced and talented leader like David to our organization and to northern Nevada,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President and CEO, Renown Health. “As CEO of Hometown Health, David will continue to foster a culture of caring and excellence, while ensuring wide-ranging medical coverage and great customer service to Hometown Health’s more than 138,000 members statewide.” Hansen has spent the previous twenty years of his career working for UnitedHealthcare, a health insurance company based out of Minnetonka, Minnesota. During his time at UnitedHealthcare, Hansen held various roles including chief financial officer of clinical & network services, west region president of network & provider services, chief executive officer of the California Health Plan and chief executive officer of the Pacific Northwest Health Plan. He has also served in executive roles with PacifiCare and TransAmerica Occidental Life and began his career in the audit and management consulting practice of Deloitte & Touche. “Choosing healthcare coverage is one of the most important decisions people make. I am excited to begin my work with Hometown Health and Renown to help our members receive the quality coverage to enhance their health and well-being,” said Hansen. “Hometown Health is such a community-focused organization and I look forward to being a part of a team that gives back to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve. ”David has an MBA in Finance and Business Policy from the University of Chicago, and a BA in Economics and Business from the University of California, Los Angeles.     About Hometown Health Established in 1988, Hometown Health is the insurance division of Renown Health and is Northern Nevada’s largest locally-owned, 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. 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.

Read More About Locally Owned Not-For-Profit Insurance Company, Hometown Health, Welcomes New CEO

Generous gift will establish the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health. The William N. Pennington Foundation has announced a $15.5 million gift to the Renown Health Foundation to help establish the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown. This gift will help to bolster care and clinical expertise to improve the lives of people with cancer across northern Nevada. This is the largest gift Renown has ever received. This is the second major donation Renown Health has received from The William N. Pennington Foundation. In 2016, the 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 this gift, 100,000 area children now have access to pediatric specialists and contemporary healthcare services at the region’s only children’s hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30 percent of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to the Pennington Foundation’s support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. Now, improving access to cancer care services in northern Nevada is the priority. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 39.5% Americans will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes (based on 2015–2017 data). Here in Nevada, the American Cancer Society estimates 16,390 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2022 and that 5,730 Nevadans will die from cancer this year. The most frequent cancers seen include breast, prostate, lung and colo-rectal cancers. “The Pennington Foundation gift is so appreciated, as it honors a man who had a passion for improving lives and provides a legacy for the our current generation,” said Thomas R. Graf, M.D., FAAFP, Chief Executive Officer of Renown Health. Dr Graf also serves as Chief Clinical and Quality Officer at Renown, and Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs for University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. “We are deeply grateful for this transformative gift. This gift will allow Renown to continue our mission of making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of people with cancer- their families, and the communities we serve.” The Renown Institute for Cancer will now be named the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute in honor of the man who was a gaming pioneer, businessperson, and philanthropist. In former publications, the late philanthropist, Bill Pennington said, “During my many years in business, I was fortunate to work with thousands of wonderful employees, all of them Nevadans. Their efforts helped create the William N. Pennington Foundation, and I hope the Foundation will, in turn, help future generations of Nevadans for many years to come.” The Pennington grant will focus on bolstering expert clinical care to address the many concerns that come with a cancer diagnosis and allow people to stay in northern Nevada instead of having travel hundreds of miles out of the area for specialty care. The Institute will be devoted to advancing cancer care, cancer screening, prevention, and cancer research, including the ability to offer the latest clinical trials. “Our goal is to offer our community comprehensive clinical services, basic, translational and clinical research, medical education to students and post-graduate training, and population health with community outreach to reduce the burden of cancer. Ultimately, the vision is to become accredited by the National Cancer Institute,” said Max J. Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, Cancer Center Director. “We are incredibly thankful and grateful for the commitment and support of the William N. Pennington Foundation,” said Greg Walaitis, Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer. “We appreciate the Pennington Foundation’s belief in Renown’s charitable mission to build a healthier community, together. We thank them for Joining the Good Fight.”   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 University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health affiliated in June of 2021 to establish Nevada’s first integrated health system with missions in education, patient care, and clinical research. 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 Joining the Good Fight: Pennington Foundation Donates 15.5 Million Dollar Grant to Transform Cancer Care in Northern Nevada

Dr. Max J. Coppes announced as Cancer Center Directory, Larry Duncan as Cancer Center Administrator for Renown's Institute for Cancer, with goal to improve the health and well-being of Nevadans. Renown Health is excited to announce that effective today, Max J. Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA has been appointed to a new leadership role as the Cancer Center Director for Renown’s Institute for Cancer. Dr. Coppes, a pediatric oncologist by training, has experience in leading large-scale, nationally-recognized academic adult and pediatric cancer center teams in both the U.S. and Canada. “If you know Dr. Coppes, you know he has the passion, dedication and commitment to build and foster the partnerships needed to create a leading comprehensive cancer center and program that spans the spectrum for patients and their families; from prevention to treatment to survivorship to palliative care,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO, Renown Health. Also effective today, Larry Duncan, MS, has been appointed as Cancer Center Administrator for Renown Health, working in dyad partnership with Dr. Coppes to support the development of this important service line. Larry will also continue his service as Vice President of Pediatrics and Surgery & Administrator of Renown Children's & Women’s Services “Together, as they have done so successfully for Renown Children’s Hospital, Dr. Coppes and Larry Duncan will be responsible for the strategic direction, operations, fiscal management and recruitment of professionals to the Renown Institute for Cancer,” said Sy Johnson, MBA, chief of staff for Renown Health. “As one of Renown’s ‘Destination Health’ service lines, Dr. Coppes and Larry will continue to support an integrated leadership model that puts the patient at the center of all that we do.” Dr. Coppes came to Reno in 2014 from the British Columbia Cancer Agency in Vancouver, where he served as president with responsibility for six regional cancer centers and two cancer research centers. He was an attending physician at BC Children's Hospital, an adjunct professor of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, and a professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia. During his career, Coppes served as senior vice president at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. and held positions at several prestigious facilities in the U.S. and Canada including The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Georgetown University, The National Cancer Institute, and the Cleveland Clinic. Since 2016, Dr. Coppes has served in the joint leadership role as the Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada School of Medicine and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children's Hospital, a position made possible through generous philanthropic support from the Nell J. Redfield Foundation along with investments by Renown Health and the UNR School of Medicine. Over the last five years, Duncan has served as Vice President of Pediatrics and Surgery & Administrator of Renown Children's and Women's Hospital, with oversight for Renown’s Pediatric Emergency Room and general and specialty pediatric physician practices. He has also served as Chief Operating Officer for Renown Regional Medical Center with oversight of pharmacy, imaging, nutrition, laboratory services and operating rooms. Prior to coming to Renown, Duncan served as CEO for El Paso Children’s Hospital and served in executive capacities for Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Rush University Medical Center.  “The Renown Institute for Cancer has Full Accreditation with Commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons in all 7 areas. Only 25% of cancer programs attain this distinction, which recognizes the quality of comprehensive, multidisciplinary patient care. Renown is the only accredited Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer program in northern Nevada to be selected, and one of only three programs statewide,” says Max J. Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA. “That is certainly an excellent foundation on which to build on, and such a gift for our community.”  “Renown’s cancer nurses, patient navigators, social workers, palliative care specialists, geneticists, nutritionists, clinical trial researchers, physical rehab specialists and the entire team provides prevention and screening to help reduce the incidence of cancer and reduce the late stage presentation of cancers,” says Larry Duncan, MS. “Helping patients and families navigate their journey begins at the time of diagnosis, with the help of our nurse navigators, and extends throughout the patient’s treatment. We are making great strides in long-term survivorship and are pleased to be recognized for the comprehensive nature of our research, care, education and community outreach programs.”  According to the National Cancer Institute, the Age-Adjusted Death Rate of 153.5 per 100,000 population due to Cancer for Washoe County has seen significant improvement in the last several years, and now meets the Healthy People 2020 national health target of reducing the overall cancer death rate below 161.4 per 100,000 population. The Healthy People 2030 national health target is to reduce the overall cancer death rate to 122.7 deaths per 100,000 population.  The National Cancer Institute (NCI) defines cancer as a term used to describe diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and are able to invade other tissues. According to the NCI there are over 100 different types of cancer, but breast, colon, lung, pancreatic, prostate, and rectal cancer lead to the greatest number of annual deaths. Risk factors of cancer include but are not limited to; age, alcohol use, tobacco use, a poor diet, certain hormones, and sun exposure. Although some of these risk factors cannot be avoided -- such as age -- limiting exposure to avoidable risk factors may lower risk of developing certain cancers. 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 Health Announces Cancer Program Leadership Team

Recognized as one of the world’s leading breast cancer experts as a 2023 Legends in Cancer Honoree Dr. Lee Schwartzberg, FACP, Section Chief of Medical Oncology at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown, was honored as the 2023 Legends in Cancer honoree at this year's Best of Breast conference for his contributions to the field of breast cancer. The conference took place on Jan. 21 and 22. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 36 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased age, hereditary factors, obesity, and alcohol use. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates across the country, and here in Washoe County have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment, detection, and care. Each year in the United States, about 264,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,400 in men. Here in Washoe County, more than 21 deaths per 100,000 females are due to breast cancer, a significant decrease since 2012 when 24 deaths per 100,000 females were reported. Dr. Schwartzberg was selected for this award based on his unique and vast contributions to advancing science and patient care, including his major research interests such as therapeutic approaches to breast cancer, targeted therapies, and supportive care. The selection committee evaluates each candidates’ body of work — including contributions to the field of breast cancer in clinical research, patient care, mentoring and community service — before deciding on an honoree. “Dr. Schwartzberg is deserving of this honor. As a national expert in the study and treatment of breast cancer, precision medicine and supportive care, Dr. Schwartzberg is transforming cancer care and improving the lives of all of us in northern Nevada. As the most preferred cancer program in the region, we are working with the support of donors like The William N. Pennington Foundation to recruit additional oncology specialists and cancer science researchers to become the first National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer care center in Nevada," said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “The incredible care that comes from the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute is possible because of nationally recognized oncologists like Dr. Schwartzberg.” “Dr. Schwartzberg completed fellowship training in medical oncology and hematology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, where he also served as Chief Medical Resident and was a founding member of the institutional ethics committee,” add Paul J. Hauptman, MD, dean of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and chief academic officer for Renown Health. “We are proud that he serves as a professor of clinical medicine at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. His research interests include supportive care, precision medicine and patient-reported outcomes in breast cancer and he has published over 300 peer-reviewed manuscripts, book chapters and monographs.” “It is an honor to work with Dr. Schwartzberg and his patients have the most incredible things to say about the care he provides.” said Dr. Max J Coppes, PhD, MBA, Director, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, Renown Health. “He understands that his patients are going through one of the most challenging times in their lives. Dr. Schwartzberg brings decades of experience to our community, is a great listener, and treats everyone with compassion and dignity. We are so proud to have him at Renown.” The Best of Breast Conference is an innovative medical education program that gathers the world's leading breast cancer experts to discuss cases with high-risk characteristics, adjuvant and metastatic treatment advances, interdisciplinary care and survivorship and recurrence — all while incorporating data from the major oncologic annual meetings. Dr. Schwartzberg has been selected to chair Total Health’s spring oncology education retreat in Lake Tahoe on April 15 and 16. The event’s comprehensive agenda will allow attendees to engage with the latest research and strategies in cancer care while networking with colleagues from across the country in a peaceful setting. Additional conference information is available here. For women, breast exams using mammography after 40 years old is recommended. For those age 75 and older, a mammogram is recommended every year. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Both 3-D digital mammography and whole breast ultrasounds are available at the Greenberg Breast Health Center at Renown and other locations across northern Nevada. The Affordable Care Act makes breast cancer screening and counseling free. All health plans must cover these benefits at no cost to you. Renown MyChart app users can self-schedule a mammogram appointment. To call to schedule, dial 775-982-8100. At the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health, patients receive innovative, personalized treatment to fight cancer while an experienced team provides the support and technology to maintain the highest quality of life. The Renown team’s clinical expertise and advanced treatment options blend evidence-based care with leading-edge research to improve cancer outcomes for every patient and family. For more information or a referral, visit renown.org/cancer. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. About Total Health Total Health is a medical information company of planning experts who produce tailored content, courses, and conferences for oncology healthcare providers, virtual and in-person. Total Health believes knowledge is power. Its mission is to give oncology healthcare providers an educational experience that equips them with the latest strategies to improve clinical practice and treatment outcomes.

Read More About Dr. Lee Schwartzberg Honored With 2023 Legends in Cancer Award

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

Gift from Jeanne and Raymond Conrad will support development of the Conrad Breast Center in the new Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. Renown Health Foundation announced a $5 million gift from local philanthropists Jeanne and Raymond Conrad on Monday, Oct 30. This gift will establish the Conrad Breast Center at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown. The center will be housed in the Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. The three-story, 121,000 square foot Specialty Care Center being built on the Renown South Meadows Medical Center campus will feature expanded laboratory and diagnostic services, a surgery center and expanded sterile processing department and more. The Conrad Breast Center is the latest addition to the services planned for the Specialty Care Center and will include imaging, infusion and surgery services along with a wellness center. “With a service area of over 100,000 square miles that serves approximately one million people, Renown sees individuals from all walks of life,” said Jeanne Conrad, philanthropist. “My husband Raymond and I share Renown’s vision for a healthy community and establishing advanced care options for even the most difficult-to-treat cancer cases. We all have been impacted by breast cancer in some way which is why we feel honored to create this legacy.” According to the National Cancer Institute, 12.9% of women born in the United States will develop breast cancer at some time during their lives (based on 2015–2017 data). Here in Nevada, the American Cancer Society estimates 2,620 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2023 and that 440 Nevadans will die from breast cancer this year. “Renown Health’s mission to provide best-in-class care in our northern Nevada community and beyond is only possible with generous donors like Jeanne and Raymond Conrad,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, Renown Health President & CEO. “This gift establishing the Conrad Breast Center within the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute will positively impact lives in our community for years to come. Cancer does not discriminate and Renown strives to create care environments that cater to all individuals. Our goal is to save lives and ensure better outcomes while keeping families together with convenient care options.” During the formal announcement of the Conrad Breast Center on Monday, Oct. 30, Renown patient and breast cancer survivor, Carolyn Dragics, spoke about her experience receiving care at Renown. Carolyn emphasized that staying close to home was a crucial part of her care journey. To continue expanding regional cancer care options and keep locals close to home, Renown Medical Group recently welcomed two distinguished breast surgical oncologists, Colleen O'Kelly-Priddy, MD and Michelle K. Chu, MD to the team. As part of this expansion, Renown is assuming operations of Reno Surgical Advocates, a respected private practice in Reno. “Northern Nevada’s population continues to grow, and Renown is positioning itself to have the appropriate amount of cancer care providers available for everyone who may need it,” said Greg Walaitis, Renown Health Chief Development Officer. “As the region’s largest not-for-profit healthcare system, Renown works tirelessly to provide members of our community with advanced care. This establishing donation from the Conrad family will continue to build Renown’s vision for increasing cancer care options in our region.” “Every day I am inspired by not only the patients we care for who are fighting the good fight against cancer, but also by the donors like the Conrad family who have given us the opportunity to support our patients in their fight,” said Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, Renown Health’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute Director. The Conrad Breast Center is another step towards the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute’s ultimate goal for our community: establishing an NCI-designated Cancer Center in Reno.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

Read More About $5 Million Donation to Renown Health Foundation Will Increase Access to Breast Cancer Care in Northern Nevada

Clinical researchers with the Healthy Nevada Project co-author research paper with findings that emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer risk assessment – including a focus on genetic medicine – to help ensure that individuals at high risk are identified and supported proactively rather than reactively.  Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 39 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased age, hereditary factors, obesity, and alcohol use. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment and detection. In Nevada there are an estimated 2,310 new breast cancer cases a year, and genetic mutations such as in the genes BRCA1 or BRCA2 remain a top risk factor for this prevalent disease. Recognizing the urgency for progress in breast cancer research, a collaborative effort between physicians, advanced practice providers and scientists from the Healthy Nevada Project® (HNP) and Helix have unveiled groundbreaking research. This study explores how genetic screenings are a necessary supplement to traditional testing methods, together offering more accurate insights into a patient's likelihood of developing breast cancer in the future. HNP is operated by Renown Genomic Medicine and the Institute for Health Innovation and is one of the largest community-based population health studies in the country. Their team works in collaboration with Helix, a leader in precision health that delivers comprehensive genomic solutions. Together, this dynamic partnership aims to understand breast cancer risk factors and pave the way for more effective preventative measures. The combined research team studied 25,591 female HNP participants to evaluate the performance of different genetic screening approaches to identify women at high risk of breast cancer. The results of this research suggest that a combined monogenic, or single-gene, and polygenic, or multi-gene, approach to breast cancer screenings helped produce more accurate results and more closely identify study participants who have a high genetic risk of developing the disease. "Based on this research, we are advocating a shift in approach which would improve breast cancer risk assessment through a combination of effective family history ascertainment and genetic screening,” said Joseph Grzymski, PhD, principal investigator of the Healthy Nevada Project, research professor at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and co-author of the breast cancer research paper. “This tailored approach, founded on the assessment of individual genetic risk, not only intends to elevate patient well-being but also will improve efficiency and equity in healthcare." Complementing the team’s research on leveraging genetics to identify women at low genetic risk of breast cancer that could safely defer mammogram screenings by five to 10 years that was released in late 2023 in JAMA Oncology, the study suggests that incorporating genetic information can assist in personalizing breast cancer screenings and optimizing the use of screening resources. "Existing disparities persist across various facets of breast cancer screening and treatment; however, genetic screening is clearly a powerful tool to help facilitate early intervention for those at higher risk,” said Jamie Schnell Blitstein, APRN, a primary care nurse practitioner at Renown Health and co-author of the breast cancer research paper. “By placing a heightened focus on risk, we underscore the pivotal role of preventative breast cancer screening.” Despite the availability of effective methods for early screening, co-authors of this research found that 78 percent of women with a family history of breast cancer had their risk ascertained only after a breast cancer diagnosis. The findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer risk assessment – including a focus on genetic medicine – to help ensure that individuals at high risk are identified and supported proactively rather than reactively.  “These findings that can profoundly impact how healthcare is delivered were only made possible by all the participants who were willing to consent to research,” said Alex Bolze, PhD from Helix and co-author of the publication. “Broad-scale collaboration projects like these between Renown Health and UNR that engage large populations where participants share both their genetic information as well as electronic health records drive advancements in preventative medicine, as well as fundamental biological research.”   The research paper was officially accepted on Jan. 29, 2024, and will be published by Elsevier, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. The contents of the paper will appear in the international journal Genetics in Medicine Open. Read the full article by visiting sciencedirect.com. The Healthy Nevada Project is currently recruiting new study participants. Free to all Nevadans with a saliva sample or blood draw, participants and their referring providers receive access to whole-exome sequencing and clinical grade results that help provide insight into their unique genetic risks tied to heart disease and certain cancers. If you are interested in enrolling in the study, schedule a Virtual Consent Appointment through MyChart or contact the Renown Institute for Health Innovation at RenownIHI@renown.org or (775) 982-6914 to be connected to a Genomic Representative. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’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 region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. To join the Renown Health team, visit renown.org/careers. About Helix Helix is the leading population genomics and viral surveillance company operating at the intersection of clinical care, research, and data analytics. Helix enables health systems, life sciences companies, payers, and government partners to accelerate the integration of genomic data into patient care and public health decision-making. Learn more at helix.com.

Read More About Research Shows Genetic Approaches to Breast Cancer Screenings Yield More Accurate Results

Renown Medical Group is thrilled to welcome two distinguished breast surgical oncologists, Colleen O'Kelly-Priddy, MD and Michelle K. Chu, MD to the team. These highly skilled breast surgeons will solely focus on providing breast care and therefore play a pivotal role in Renown Health’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute’s commitment to provide subspecialized care to the people living in our community and beyond. Dr. Colleen O'Kelly-Priddy is a fellowship-trained, board-certified breast surgical oncologist with an impressive background in breast cancer surgery. Dr. Priddy was born at Washoe Medical Center (which later became Renown Regional Medical Center) and grew up in Susanville, CA before attending Stanford University for her undergraduate studies. She is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. "I am thrilled to return to Reno to help increase access to world-class surgical breast cancer care,” said Dr. Priddy. “My focus is to provide exceptional care, particularly for young people with breast cancer. I am excited to continue my mission here in northern Nevada." Dr. Michelle K. Chu, a board-certified general surgeon, brings her extensive experience in advanced breast cancer treatment to the Renown team. Dr. Chu received her undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her medical degree from Western Reserve School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH. Dr. Chu specializes in oncoplastic breast conserving surgery and nipple sparing mastectomies. "I believe in tailoring treatment options to each patient's unique needs,” Dr. Chu said. “Whether it's preserving the natural shape of the breast or supporting the 'Going Flat' movement, our team strives to provide the best possible outcome for every patient." The newest addition to the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, Renown Breast Surgery Care provides comprehensive breast surgery care at 1500 E. 2nd Street in Reno, adjacent to the Renown Regional Medical Center campus. "Breast cancer accounts for approximately 20% of newly diagnosed cancer cases in Washoe County, with roughly 520 new cases annually, establishing it as the most prevalent cancer type within our community,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Renown Health. “We are proud, as the community’s largest not-for-profit healthcare system, to invest in cancer prevention and early diagnoses, including mammography screening and genetic research. For those diagnosed with breast cancer, Renown now offers two superb breast surgeons specializing in breast preservation surgery, and a breast surgery center providing comprehensive, compassionate care. Our goal is to save women’s lives, save families and ensure better care and better outcomes. This is a major step forward for women’s healthcare and our community.” As part of this expansion, Renown is assuming operations of Reno Surgical Advocates, a respected private practice in Reno. "Access to expert breast cancer care close to home is crucial, and our dedicated team at Renown Breast Surgery Care will work tirelessly to provide the highest level of care to patients while working closely with our other cancer specialists," said Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, Director, William N. Pennington Institute for Cancer. “With the exceptional expertise of Dr. Colleen O'Kelly-Priddy and Dr. Michelle K. Chu, coupled with our state-of-the-art facility; Renown Health is a true partner in the fight against breast cancer in northern Nevada.” "People are increasingly relocating to northern Nevada, and in fact, Washoe County experienced a 2.1% population growth from April 2020 to July 2022. Consequently, although northern Nevada does not exhibit an above-average cancer rate, we are observing a rise in cases at our facilities," said Dr. Lee Schwartzberg, MD, FACP, Section Chief of Medical Oncology at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute. "Renown Health is positioned to meet this growing demand, and we take pride in consistently adding nationally renowned healthcare providers to our team to save the lives of women in northern Nevada.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

Read More About Saving More Lives; Renown Expands Breast Cancer Care, Adding Two Best-In-Class Breast Surgeons