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Clinical affiliation to create more access to care for Nevadans. View the original press release by the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. Nevada continues to face a physician shortage ranking No. 45 in the United States for active physicians per 100,000 population and No. 48 for primary care physicians per 100,000 population according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) 2019 Nevada Physician Workforce Profile. A new clinical affiliation between the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Renown Health addresses the provider gap and increases access to care by developing new and innovative ways to train and retain the next generation of Nevada's health care professionals. A cornerstone of the affiliation is the Renown Health Scholarship, which was established by Renown to support UNR Med medical students and physician assistant students in their pursuit of a career in health care. The goal of the scholarship is to award $350,000 annually based on need and merit. In 2021-2022, the scholarship will be awarded to 20 first-year and third-year medical students, each receiving $15,000 for a total of $300,000; and five second-year physician assistant studies program students, each receiving $10,000 for a total of $50,000. "Students are at the core of what we do as a School of Medicine, and this incredibly generous scholarship is the best way possible for Renown Health to celebrate our partnership and support our students," says Melissa Piasecki, acting dean of UNR Med, a role that includes Chief Academic Officer at Renown Health. "We thank Renown Health for this gift that will benefit so many of UNR Med students on their journeys to becoming great doctors and physician assistants. "We are extremely proud to establish the Renown Health Scholarship with UNR Med providing annual support to students pursuing careers in health care," says Anthony D. Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO, Renown Health." As Nevada's first integrated health care system, UNR Med and Renown are advancing health and health care through world-class medical education, clinical research and patient care for our community, our state and our nation, and supporting this first class of scholarship recipients is an important step in ensuring quality access to care for northern Nevada and the state in the future." The inaugural group of scholarship recipients epitomize Renown Health's and UNR Med's combined vision of A Healthy Nevada and mission of improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve. The students chosen for this scholarship further represent UNR Med's commitments to excellence and to a culture of diversity and inclusion in support of their goals of becoming physicians and physician assistants. "This scholarship will contribute greatly to my becoming a physician that can later serve those from lower socioeconomic statuses. I am humbled and honored by the fact that Renown believes that my hard work and determination are worth rewarding, I know it will alleviate some of the mental stress that finances play in my life, and I hope to make these funds count through hard work and dedication to my studies," says Eunice Aiyuk, first-year medical student at UNR Med, who was born in Yaounde, Cameroon, in West Africa, and has lived in Reno since she was three years old. Aiyuk graduated from McQueen High School and from the University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor of science degree in neuroscience in 2018. Sergio Trejo, Jr., MPH, is a third-year medical student who grew up in Las Vegas and served as a Spanish interpreter at a community health center prior to earning his Master of Public Health degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2019, which instilled in him his desire to pursue a career as a primary care physician in pediatrics. "I'm interested in a career in pediatrics since I can combine my knowledge of medicine and public health to not only influence the health of children, but also the entire family, as they are ones that ultimately dictate their child's health outcomes," Trejo says. "This scholarship means the ability to fund my dream of helping alleviate health disparities in underserved communities, especially those who endure language barriers. It will help reduce the stress of funding resources that will help me be successful in my clerkships and beyond." As a second-year Physician Assistant Studies Program student at UNR Med, Benjamin "Benjie" Portillo-Dominguez's path to becoming a physician assistant started at a young age when he attended his parents' doctors' appointments so that he could interpret. He recalls his family's excitement when a health care provider could speak Spanish. "It made a world of difference because it maximized communication and helped them receive the care they needed. This helped develop in me a strong desire to pursue a career in health care, says Portillo-Dominguez, who graduated from the University with a bachelor of science degree in community health sciences in 2018. "In less than a year I will become a Physician Assistant. This has been a long-time goal of mine, but as a first-generation college graduate, this has been the dream of my parents since I was born." "Receiving this scholarship benefits me in my training because it allows me more time to focus on my studies and opens up opportunities to learn from experienced providers. Becoming the best provider I can be, allows me to strengthen this community that I was born and raised in. Having this unique perspective and being in this program allows me to be a solution to the lack of primary care providers in this area, especially with those who speak Spanish." The UNR Med student recipients of the 2021 Renown Health Scholarship were based on merit and need. They include: first-year medical students Eunice Aiyuk, Dakota Johnson, Aisha Masud, Isabella Rodriguez and Raquel Wescott; third-year medical students Davison Beenfeldt, Sara Bertram, Kaileigh Bingham, Curtis Duncan, Brooke Gantman, Alex Harper, Erin Kelley, Regina Kurapova, Ngantu Le, Otto Maurer, Keanu McMurray, Eric Nguyen, Hao To, Sean Torres and Sergio Trejo; and second-year physician assistant studies program students Ali-Marie Lostra, Margaret (Meg) Patterson, Benjamin (Benjie) Portillo-Dominguez, Preston Reugebrink and Ryan Swanson. The UNR Med/Renown Health affiliation is between a 159-year old health care provider, the state's original land grant university and the state's oldest medical school. Over the last five decades, UNR Med has educated more than 4,000 physicians with over 30% percent practicing in Nevada, increasing access to care for Nevadans across the state. Equally rooted in the community, Renown's long legacy of service started in 1862 as a county hospital, Washoe Medical Center. Now, Renown Health, a charitable, not-for-profit organization, serves the community by providing care through hospitals, outpatient medical offices, institutes and a health insurance plan, Hometown Health.     Media Contact: Julie Ardito, APR Senior Director, Advancement and Engagement Email: news@med.unr.edu Office: 775-784-6006   About The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada's first public medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Established in 1969, UNR Med is improving 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.

Read More About New Renown Health Scholarship Supports UNR Med Students - The Next Generation of Physicians and Health Care Professionals

Renown joins Washoe County Health District to Offer COVID-19 Vaccines to Children 5-11 at Vaccine Clinics. Renown Health is partnering with the Washoe County Health District to help distribute the initially available, limited supplies of an age-appropriate dose of the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines to children ages 5-11. At this time, all residents 5 years and older are eligible to receive a vaccine. Renown announced today that for parents/guardians with proxy access for their children through the Renown MyChart app, vaccination appointments are now available for children ages 5-11. Pending supply, Renown expects to be able to vaccinate 1,600 children with the 2-dose series in a limited series of weekend clinics. At this time, due to limited supplies, no vaccines for children are available through Renown Medical Group pediatric offices. Vaccine appointments may only be scheduled through the Renown MyChart app; please do not contact a Renown doctor/health care provider or the Engagement Center at this time. There is no cost to establish a Renown MyChart account, and you do not need to have a Renown provider to enroll. For MyChart Technical Support, call 775-982-2781. Renown is covering all costs of the vaccine, and it is offered free of charge. “As a pediatrician, an intensive care physician, a public health practitioner and a grandparent, I encourage parents to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 now. No child should suffer, be hospitalized or die from a disease that can prevented by simply getting a shot,” says Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We remain steadfast in fighting the good fight for our community, and that includes protecting kids. Being able to serve kids and their parents, with the only Children’s Hospital in northern Nevada, and being able to administer COVID-19 vaccines to children is incredibly gratifying for our team. This vaccine will prevent deaths, ICU admissions and will prevent significant long-term adverse outcomes in children." “I tell parents, get your kids vaccinated now- because every kid is at risk,” says Kristina Deeter, M.D., MBA, Pediatric Intensivist, and Vice Chair of Pediatrics at Renown Children’s Hospital. “Please get your family- including your kids, vaccinated now to keep your family safe. Being fully vaccinated and being able to hug Grandma and Grandpa at the holidays may be the greatest gift of all this holiday season.” “The CDC recommends everyone ages 5 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against COVID-19. Widespread vaccination for COVID-19 is a critical tool to protect everyone, especially those at highest risk, from severe illness and death. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only option currently authorized for children,” says Vanessa Slots, MD, a pediatrician with Renown Children’s. “It was found to give kids strong protection against COVID-19, including against the Delta variant. Children who are vaccinated may have some side effects (chills, redness and swelling at site injection), which are normal signs that their body is building protection.” Children are advised not to receive the vaccine if: • They are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness). • They have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. • They have a history of significant allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the vaccine.   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 world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About The Greatest Gift of All? A Fully Vaccinated Family!

Protecting employees and their families; providing the safest, highest-level of care to patients and supporting public health Renown Health, one of the region’s largest private employers with a work force of almost 7,000, and a not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving over 1 million people across Nevada, today notified its employees that it will support the national Emergency Regulation and will require COVID-19 vaccination for all Renown Health employees. Communicating to employees today, Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO, wrote, “For the last nineteen months, we have done everything humanly possible to care for patients, our community and each other- and to keep people safe from COVID-19. Despite these efforts, too many people have fallen ill, suffered long-term effects or lost those they loved to this deadly disease.” He added, “I believe that as the leading anchor institution for our community, we are obligated to set a clear example of our trust in data and science, and to hold ourselves to the highest ethical and professional standards to keep our community safe. It is clear that the vaccine is safe and effective in reducing illness and saving lives and we encourage everyone who is medically able to do so, and within their religious guidelines, to get vaccinated.” Dr. Slonim thanked his staff for “heeding the call for vaccination and protecting those in our care who are ill and physically vulnerable, and ensuring a safe, COVID-19-free environment for them and for each other.” As of today, 80% percent of all 6,750 Renown Health employees have already been vaccinated or granted an approved exemption or deferral. On November 4th, The Biden-Harris Administration announced required COVID-19 vaccination of eligible staff at health care facilities that participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.The American Hospital Association, American Medical Association and multiple national societies representing medical professionals and at least 174 health care organizations nationally have recommended that vaccination be required for all healthcare personnel as a condition of employment. COVID-19 vaccination prevents serious illness, hospitalization and death. Documented declines in cases since mass vaccination began prove the COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective, and are crucial to decreasing the spread of the virus. Renown’s requirement applies to all employees, new hires and students. Chief Medical Officers strongly endorse the mandate. “Our role is to provide the safest, highest-level of care to people who come to us for care, and we must do our part to support public health, which has been greatly enhanced in this state because of the utilization and uptake of the vaccine,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, CPE, Chief Medical Officer, Health Services. Dr. Mediwala was instrumental in Renown’s volunteer effort to administer 80,000 vaccinations to employees and community members, and now to children ages 5-11 at its Hometown Health location earlier this year. We know that there’s some hesitancy that exists, but the data are clear that these vaccinations have been very effective in preventing hospitalizations, severe complications and deaths from COVID-19,” says Susan Lee, DO, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Acute Services. “We encourage all colleagues, patients, and community members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.”   The Biden-Harris Administration requirements will apply to approximately 76,000 providers and cover over 17 million health care workers across the country. The regulation will create a consistent standard within Medicare and Medicaid while giving patients assurance of the vaccination status of those delivering care. Facilities covered by this regulation must establish a policy ensuring all eligible staff have received the first dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine or a one-dose COVID-19 vaccine prior to providing any care, treatment, or other services by December 6, 2021. All eligible staff must have received the necessary shots to be fully vaccinated – either two doses of Pfizer or Moderna or one dose of Johnson & Johnson – by January 4, 2022. The regulation also provides for exemptions based on recognized medical conditions or religious beliefs, observances, or practices. Facilities must develop a similar process or plan for permitting exemptions in alignment with federal law. Renown will do direct outreach to those employees who have not yet been vaccinated, to be sure they understand the regulations, implications, and options available to them. Dr. Slonim closed his announcement to employees today by saying, “While we understand this is a heavy issue for many, the mandate is clear and is one we will abide by. It is the right thing to do for our patients and each other.”   About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of almost 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Expands Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement

New mental health benefits and two leaders Top Women in Wellness and HR by Ragan Communications Concern about clinician well-being has been top of mind for years, but the pandemic has exacerbated stress and trauma and presented a unique opportunity to reframe core approaches to fostering a thriving workforce. More than ever, clinicians require compassionate, holistic support to ensure that they feel safe, valued and engaged,” begins the introduction to the 2022 Health Care Talent Scan from the American Hospital Association. In line with this new report, Renown Health President and CEO Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., and a newly appointed member of the American Hospital Association Board of Directors, has announced a number of additional benefits to address some of the physical and psychological impacts of chronic clinician workforce stressors and to promote rest-and-recuperation strategies, essential for sustaining high-performing clinical teams. In an enterprise-wide communication, Dr. Slonim wrote to Renown Health employees, “I often say good health is a positive connection of a person’s body, mind and spirit. To honor you this holiday season, we have added to your comprehensive benefits package to help you achieve well-being, realize greater financial security, advance your education, enjoy enhanced life balance, and when needed, face illnesses and setbacks with the greatest possible peace of mind.” In addition to offering a $100 cash holiday gift for all frontline employees (up to manager level), Renown leaders are working to remove the stigma and barriers to using mental health services when needed, and reinforcing that seeking help indicates strength, not weakness. “By listening, recognizing and honoring our team member’s emotional health, we are looking to help each other process these experiences, grow from them and emerge more resilient and available to our patients and families,” said Michelle Sanchez Bickley, MS, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Chief Human Resources Officer. “This could include taking a day off to refresh and recharge or taking advantage of confidential, mental health counseling visits at no charge. We have updated our policy to include mental and emotional well-being as eligible for use of sick leave.” Sanchez-Bickley is the newest inductee to the HR Hall of Fame this week by Ragan Communications, for leading the charge for health care organizations across the United States in employee health, performance management, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, training and development, and for implementing innovative employee benefits. She is the only health care HR leader named to the Hall of Fame this year. Also named to the national leadership list is Ann Beck, MBA, Chief Financial Officer, who, Ragan Communications noted, “despite being in the middle of a COVID pandemic and economic and financial down turn, was able to drive performance to secure Renown’s workforce and long-term financing to serve this generation and the next.” In addition, hospital staff will be offered free chair massages, courtesy of a local donor organization, MOBE. “Without a doubt, it’s the little things like this, free chair massages, food trucks at lunch time, a hot cup of coffee near the end of your shift, and a sincere “thank you” from a patient or family, that makes all the difference to us as nurses,” said Jana Elliott, DNP, RN, Associate Chief Nursing Officer Acute Services. Clinicians and employees are also encouraged to take vacation time away, and will continue to earn 10 paid holidays plus vacation time, employee recognition and rewards through the Everyday Amazing employee recognition program, enrollment in a free life insurance plan, and offered paid volunteer time and health insurance, 401k retirement planning, and education and tuition reimbursement. Dr. Slonim ended his communication by saying, “This year, as we readjust, realign and restore our way to a new world, I have never been prouder to ‘Be Renown.’ Thank you for standing by us, offering your time and expertise, and helping us emerge stronger people, and a stronger organization through a very challenging time. Please enjoy this holiday season with family and friends, and know you are appreciated.” Renown Health is currently hiring key roles to support the health and well-being of our community. The HR and Recruiting team are providing applicants with support during the application, interview and onboarding processes with a variety of digital and virtual tools. To join the Renown team to help Fight the Good fight, visit https://careers.renown.org.   About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. 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 Health Leads Nation With Focus on Clinician and Employee Wellness

Kimberly Dianne Cooney has been awarded the prestigious 2021 Commitment to Community Award for Trustee Excellence from the Nevada Hospital Association (NHA). Each year the the association's annual meeting, the Nevada Hospital Association publicly acknowledges one trustee who exemplifies exceptional leadership and the following characteristics; professional excellence; outstanding achievements; innovative accomplishments and extraordinary compassion in caring for the community. "Kim Cooney's effectiveness in advocating on behalf of hospitals, patients, and the healthcare system - as well as her personal connection and passion for improving the community's overall health are what drive her commitment," said Pat Kelly, NHA's President & CEO. "Kim's Board leadership has helped Renown Health achieve recognition at the highest levels for excellent care, safety, community investment and bold innovation." Cooney was nominated by President & CEO of Renown Health, Anthony D. Slonim, MD, D.Ph., who wrote, "Since 2007, when Kim Cooney began her service on the Renown South Meadows Medical Center Board of Directors, she began making an immediate impact. In 2014, she was appointed Board Secretary of the Renown Health Board. This year marks the end of 15 years of incredible dedication. In addition to graciously giving thousands of hours of Board service, Kim also served as the Renown Health Governance & Nominating Chair, helping to ensure that the voice of our growing community is well-represented on the Board and committees." During Kim's tenure, she spearheaded the change from disparate hospital boards to a unified system governance structure, which enabled the Renown Board to be more agile, nimble and strategic. As the Governance & Nominating Chair, Kim ensured a thoughtful, fair, and methodological approach to ensuring community representation and the 'voice of the customer,' is represented at the Board and committees. In addition, Kim ensures that Diversity & Inclusion is a key conversation topic at every meeting. Kim also is a staunch supporter of the Renown Community Advisory Committee, a diverse group of twenty leaders who bring community issues, concerns and feedback to the CEO on a quarterly basis, and participate in the organization's strategic plan, Community Health Risk Assessment & Health Improvement Plans. This includes offering free and discounted care to those unable to afford healthcare, and partnerships with others to address health and well-being. In FY20, Renown Health, a locally governed, not-for-profit community health network spent more than $194 million for health education, community initiatives and non-reimbursed healthcare services; investing substantially more in the community than most not-for-profit health systems in the U.S. Through Kim and the Boards' support, the integrated healthcare system now includes four hospital campuses, 120 sites of primary, urgent and specialty care, affiliations with UNR Medicine, and a not-for-profit health plan, Hometown Health/Senior Care Plus that serves more than 160,000 members. Renown Health's more than 7,000 employees and 800 providers serve as the regional referral care center for over 100,000 square miles, from Sacramento to Salt Lake City.  Jim DeVolld, chair of the Renown Board says, "Kim carries the highest level of ethics and integrity. Her commitment is born out of her sense of responsibility. She has a passion for improving the community's overall health and providing care that is accessible and affordable. She's ethical, conscientious, listens to patients and our community, and is super smart." He adds, "As we look to the future, Kim, our Board and senior leadership are excited about expanding our vision to improve health and to be a trusted partner in providing exceptional, patient-centered care." Kim Cooney is a certified public accountant. She was employed with Grant Thornton for almost a quarter century.  In 1995, she became a partner in Grant Thornton and served as leader of the tax department practice. Kim's areas of specialization included service to high-wealth families, estate and succession planning, and business tax issues. Kim has applied her history, insights and sophisticated business acumen to guiding Renown Health at the highest level. Although Kim retired from Grant Thornton in 2019, her impact and legacy remains. In addition to her service at Renown, Kim is active in many community organizations including the Economic Development Authority, the Education Collaborative, the Estate Planning Council, and the University of Nevada Planned Giving Group.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In the U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org. About the NHA The Nevada Hospital Association is a not-for-profit, statewide trade association representing Nevada's acute care hospitals along with psychiatric, rehabilitation and other specialty hospitals as well as health-related agencies and organizations throughout the state. Allied with the American Hospital Association, the NHA is an independent organization headquarter in Reno, Nev.

Read More About Dedicated Leader, Kimberly Dianne Cooney, Honored by NV Hospital Assoc for Excellence and Improving Health of Nevada

Three-day medical education conference advances research, education, prevention and treatment. Physicians and medical professionals from throughout the Mountain West will soon be convening in Lake Tahoe to explore emerging treatments, the most recent advances and new clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, stroke and heart disease. Hosted by Renown's Institute for Heart & Vascular Health and the Nevada Academy of Family Physicians, the three-day Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine conference will bring together national experts to explore challenges and solutions to cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. "Our mission is to advance health in America. As Nevada's first integrated health system, with our University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine affiliation, we are advancing health and health care through world-class medical education, clinical research and patient care for our community, our state and our nation," says Anthony D. Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO, Renown Health. "And, we have so much work to do. In 2019, 9.5% of Nevadans reported being told by a health professional that they had angina or coronary heart disease; which is significantly above the national average of 8.4%. As public health and health care providers, we can do more to encourage people to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to keep their heart healthy and help prevent heart disease through the Healthy Nevada Project®, where people can understand their genetic risks at no-cost." "The driving force behind this collaborative event is the shared missions of all our organizations, across the country, to advance progress in cardiovascular research, education, prevention and treatment," says Jayson Morgan, MD, FACC, Director Cardiovascular Services at Renown. "We will be joined by colleagues from Johns Hopkins, Cedars-Sinai, Scripps, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, University of Utah, Medical College of Wisconsin, the Metabolic Institute of America and locally- with experts from Renown's Institute for Heart & Vascular Health/UNR Med, St. Mary's and Barton Health - to discuss contemporary trends in providing excellent cardiovascular care and prevention." New research will be presented each day, including: “Vaping and Electronic Cigarettes – The Hidden Epidemic: What the Clinician Needs to Know” Michael J. Blaha, MD, MPH, FACC, Professor of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Director of Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, Baltimore, MD “Optimizing Glycemic Control in the Inpatient Setting” Kendall M. Rogers, MD, CPE, FACP, SFHM, Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Chief, Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM “Perioperative Medicine Update”                                                                                                                                                                                             Barbara A. Slawski, MD, MS, SFHM Professor of Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery, Chief, Section of Hospital Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI “Understanding hATTR Amyloidosis: Clinical Presentation and Treatment Landscape” Jignesh K. Patel, MD, PhD, FACC, FRCP, FAST, FAHA, Clinical Professor of Medicine, Medical Director, Heart Transplant Program, Director, Cardiac Amyloid Program, Director, Heart Transplant Research, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA “Coronary Artery Calcium in 2021: Guideline-Endorsed and Ready for Prime Time” “The Evolving Landscape of Obesity Management – A 2021 Update” Ken Fujioka, MD, Director of the Center for Weight Management, Director of the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center, Scripps Clinic, Department of Diabetes and Endocrine, San Diego, CA “The Evolving Landscape of Obesity Management – A 2021 Update” Ken Fujioka, MD, Director of the Center for Weight Management, Director of the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center, Scripps Clinic, Department of Diabetes and Endocrine, San Diego, CA “Management of Atrial Fibrillation: Where We Are; Where We Are Headed” Matthew A. Cain, MD, Electrophysiologist, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health, Renown Medical Group, Reno, NV "The Story of a Murmur” Abhilash Akinapelli, MD, Cardiac Valve & TAVR Program Director, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health, Renown Medical Group, Reno, NV "Update on the Cardiovascular Effects of COVID-19” Siddharth Singh, MD, Assistant Director, Echo Fellowship Training Program, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA “Antibiotic Stewardship: How to Improve Our Prescribing for Now and Later”                                                                                                                            Valerie M. Vaughn, MD, MSc, FACP, FHM, Assistant Professor, Instructional Track Director of Hospital Medicine Research, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT "Emerging Trends in the Clinical Management of VTE”                                                                                                                                                                Victor F. Tapson, MD, FCCP, FRCP, Director, Clinical Research for the Women’s Guild Lung Institute, Director, Venous Thromboembolism & Pulmonary Vascular Disease Research Program, Associate Director, Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA “Contemporary Approach to the Management of Diabetes as a Cardiovascular Disease”                                                                                               Yehuda Handelsman, MD, FACP, FNLA, FASPC, MACE, Medical Director & Principal Investigator, Metabolic Institute of America, Tarzana, CA The Arthur J Lurie, MD Memorial Dinner and Keynote Presentation, sponsored by the charitable Renown Foundation and the Lurie Family, is an evening ceremony to honor and memorialize the devotion and innovation of the lake Dr. Arthur J. Lurie, who personified humanitarian, medical and community service. Dr. Lurie devoted modernized heart surgery and was steadfast in his commitment to introduce new and groundbreaking techniques cardiovascular techniques to Nevada. He promoted and inspired life-changing research and advancements in heart surgery, as well as cancer research, until his passing in 1996. Medical professionals are invited to attend the 31st Annual Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine conference will take place at the Resort at Squaw Creek in Olympic Valley, CA from Friday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021. Those interested in registering or learning more may visit www.renown.org/trends. The clinical team at Renown Institute for Heart and Vascular Health is the recipient of a number of national awards for outstanding clinical care and service, including: In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings for 2021, Renown Regional Medical Center - #1 in the State of Nevada for 2021. No other hospital in Nevada earned recognition from U.S. News. Renown Regional Medical Center is High Performing, its highest rating possible, for Heart Failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Awarded by the American College of Surgeons for the Renown Regional earned America's 100 Best Hospitals for Critical Care Award (2021) for Superior clinical outcomes in treating pulmonary embolism, respiratory system failure, sepsis, and diabetic emergencies. Regional also earned the Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ (2021), for superior outcomes. Designated Level II Trauma Center. For the 30th year, Renown Regional Medical Center is northern Nevada's only designated level II trauma center. Renown Regional awarded The Get with the Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award for continually ensuring heart failure patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, as well as AHA's mission: Lifeline Gold Receiving honor for the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks. American College of Cardiology's NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award. Renown Regional Medical Center is one of only 225 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor. The award recognizes Renown's success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Renown has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.  To make an appointment with a provider at Renown's Institute for Heart and Vascular Health, request that your primary care provider make a referral. For more information on Renown's Institute for Heart and Vascular Health, visit renown.org/Health-Services/Heart-Care.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Leading Experts Convene in Tahoe to Focus on Scientific Advancements and the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, the #1 Cause of Death Globally

Renown recognized for using advanced technology to improve health and care in the community The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) announced that Renown Health has earned the 2021 CHIME Digital Health Most Wired recognition as a certified Acute Level – 7 and Ambulatory Level - 7. The CHIME Digital Health Most Wired program conducts an annual survey to assess how effectively healthcare organizations apply technology to improve health and care in their communities.  Renown Health was the only health care system in Nevada to make this year’s list, ranking alongside other national health leaders including UCLA Health, Scripps, Sharp, Stanford, Geisinger, Johns Hopkins, Yale New Haven and Intermountain Health.  “We are proud of our national reputation as an innovator in implementing new technology and systems of care to improve the health of our patients and the community,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President & CEO. “With our incredible IT team and partners, we are transforming care and demonstrating value in a way that appeals to patients and helps clinicians improve outcomes and reduce costs. Through Renown’s technology, thousands of people a day now choose the physician that’s best for them at renown.org; have an online video visit with their doctor from their laptop; self-schedule a mammogram or refill medications through the MyChart app; book ahead for an Urgent Care visit, and may receive hospital-level clinical monitoring in the comfort of their own homes through the Renown Transfer and Operations Center.” “Digital transformation in healthcare has accelerated to an unprecedented level since 2020, and the next few years will bring a wave of innovation that empowers healthcare consumers and will astound the industry,” said CHIME President and CEO Russell P. Branzell. “The Digital Health Most Wired program recognizes the outstanding digital leaders who have paved the way for this imminent revolution in healthcare. Renown’s trailblazing commitment to rapid transformation has set an example for the entire industry in how to pursue a leadership vision with determination, brilliant planning and courage to overcome all challenges.”  Speaking on the Wall St. Journal podcast, The Journal on Friday, Dr. Slonim described how Renown Health is one of the first institutions in the nation to provide hospital-at-home technology. Through the new Renown Transfer and Operations Center, physicians, nurses and care coordinators are able to monitor upwards of 1,000 hospitalized and lower acuity patients in their homes, making care more affordable and convenient.  “This state-of-the-art facility helps ensure seamless care for patients and providers across northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California,” said Sy Johnson, Chief of Staff at Renown. “Through this highly coordinated care logistics system, Renown is now able to deliver the right care, at the right time and place across the integrated delivery system. This system is enabling providers to provide care closer to home, in lower-cost ambulatory, outpatient surgical and skilled nursing settings- instead of the hospital, and to deliver a sizeable portion of care to patients- where they want to be- in their homes.” Bernard, a remote-home monitoring patient, provides a Thank You and Congratulations to the Renown team in a video here.  “Our teams are excited to partner with clinicians to adopt technologies that improve the delivery of care, across the entire Renown Health enterprise,” said Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer. “We have optimized clinical workflows so that our clinicians receive timely alerts and can quickly respond to patient needs. As a team, we are honored to receive this prestigious award for technology that enables us to provide safer, more effective and more efficient care for patients and our community.” In addition, the Renown website is now one of the most advanced in the country, with over 2.2 million visitors over the past year.  Renown also achieved the highest-ever rating for its use of the Epic electronic medical record system – seven stars.  A total of 36,674 organizations were represented in the 2021 Digital Health Most Wired program. The surveys assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading.     About CHIME The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), chief digital officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With nearly 3,400 members in 55 countries and over 150 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME provides a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate, exchange best practices, address professional development needs and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. 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 Health Tops 2021 Most Wired List for Digital Innovation, Technology and a Better Patient Experience

Best hospital for patients with complex, life-threatening or rare conditions; rated highest in NV in eight specialty areas. US News & World Report recently released their 2021 Best Hospital rankings naming Renown Regional Medical Center as the number one hospital in Nevada. No other hospitals in the state met their stringent standards for the 2021 rankings. The 2021-22 Best Hospitals rankings are drawn from a universe of 4,523 facilities, representing nearly all U.S. hospitals providing inpatient care. Hospitals are evaluated across a wide range on conditions and procedures, including 16 medical specialty areas of care. US News & World Report evaluated 58 hospitals in Nevada. Only one, Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV, met the high U.S. News standards to rank the #1 hospital in the state. We constantly strive to be among the best in the nation for quality, safety and patient experience," said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, FACHE, President and CEO of Renown. "This ranking confirms what the Renown Health team has always been 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 Renown Regional Medical Center has been chosen as the best in the state and among the best in the nation." "We thank the incredible physicians, nurses, employees and volunteers across our organization for their dedication to excellent patient care. We know that our patients and our community who benefit from our care are the true award winners," said Erik Olsen, FACHE, MHA, CEO of Renown Regional Medical Center. "We applaud the Renown team and our Medical Staff as being not only the best in the state, but among the best in the nation." In addition, Renown Regional Medical Center is rated "High Performing," the highest rating possible, in eight procedures and conditions, ranking in the top 10% nationally, and earning the highest recognition in Nevada for the following specialty areas: Cancer, including Colon Cancer Surgery and Lung Cancer Surgery; Cardiology & Heart Surgery, including Heart Failure; Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair; Aortic Valve; Heart Bypass Surgery; Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR); Heart Attack; Diabetes & Endocrinology, Diabetes; Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, including Colon Cancer Surgery Nephrology, including Kidney Failure; Neurology & Neurosurgery, including Back Surgery (Spinal Fusion), Stroke; Orthopedics, including Back Surgery (Spinal Fusion), Knee Replacement, Hip Replacement, Hip Fracture; Pulmonology & Lung Surgery, including Lung Cancer Surgery, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Pneumonia. "The ability to have a positive impact on people's lives through the care we provide, investing in improving the health of our community and working in service to others, is a tremendous gift," said Sy Johnson, MBA, Chief of Staff for Renown. "To be nationally recognized as being a leader in caring for other is a tremendous honor to our entire team." In an innovative, public-private partnership, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine recently established Nevada's first integrated health system to advance health and health care through world-class medical education, clinical research and patient care. "We are humbled by this national recognition," says Thomas Graf, MD, Chief Clinical and Quality Officer for Renown. "Our goal is to produce the greatest value by working with physician partners to deliver care of highest clinical quality. Renown has a national reputation for delivering excellent care using approaches that are creative, innovative and maximize technology, and it is exciting to see the team recognized for their extraordinary contributions across the medical center and in eight specialty areas including cancer care, cardiac care, surgery and neurosciences." A hospital's score is based on multiple data categories, including Patient Outcomes and Experience (48.2%), Professional Recognition (36.1% of score), including endorsements by respected national organizations demonstrating high standards, and Key Programs, Services and Staff (15.7% of score), for care of challenging patients demanding hands-on attention and highly specialized expertise. Higher numbers suggest better survival odds, fewer complications and more patients treated. Hospitals earning a High Performing rating were significantly better than the national average. Hospital rankings are determined by an extensive data-driven analysis combining performance measures in three primary dimensions of healthcare: structure, process and outcomes. The data source for most structural measures is the American Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Survey. US News & World Report selected Renown South Meadows Medical Center as the #1 hospital in 2020. Renown Health has been recognized by several national organizations for excellence and quality. Awarded by the American College of Surgeons for the 30th year, Renown Regional Medical Center is northern Nevada's only designated Level II trauma center. Renown Regional earned America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2021), for being top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality. Other national recognition and accomplishments are listed below.     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 world's largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About US News & World Report US News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower people to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A digital news and information company focused on Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars and News, USNews.com provides consumer advice, rankings and analysis to serve people making complex decisions throughout all stages of life. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, US News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Read More About Renown Regional Medical Center Named #1 Hospital in Nevada By US News & World Report

The annual Art for Recovery event features artwork from 13 local artists inspired by the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute mission. Sales will benefit the Institute. Renown Health Foundation hosts Art for Recovery at the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute on Thursday, Sept. 23 from 4-7 p.m. The annual fundraising event is free, open to the public and benefits the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown, located at 85 Kirman Ave. in Reno, Nev. The family-friendly event features an art auction, live DJ, craft vendors, activities for kids and refreshments. Established in 2018, the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown focuses on expanding community access to prevention and intervention services for mental health disorders and alcohol and drug addiction, with the goal of decreasing stigma and encouraging more people to seek help. The annual Art for Recovery fundraiser features the artwork of 13 local artists who have created pieces inspired by the Institute's mission. Each work of art addresses themes of hope and resilience. “We look forward to continuing the tradition of celebrating local artists, supporting our healing programs and bringing awareness to addiction recovery during the annual Art for Recovery event. This event shows that not only are our providers here to help our patients get through life’s challenges, but our community is here to support, too,” said Steve Shell, vice president of the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown. Participating artists include Bryce Chisholm, Naomi Ferrall, Amy Lawrence, Jessamyn Parker, Emily Reid, Arthur Richmond, the Robison Family (Paula, Elsa, Rosemary and Nathan), Cooper Sandoval, Trisha Shepherd, Sam Sprague, Cat Stahl, Julie Steiner and Jim Tuxon. Read the inspiration behind every donated piece of art here. Local 12-year-old artist Cooper Sandoval is donating a work of art titled, ‘Time.’ Cooper shares that his inspiration comes from the hope of time. “No matter how bad of a day it is, I always know that things will get better with time,” said Cooper. Bidding for the highly anticipated art auction is now open and concludes Sept. 23 during the free outdoor event. Funds raised will support improved patient care services at the Institute. To view and bid on the art pieces, visit www.renown.org/artforrecovery.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Local Artist Auction Benefits Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute

Dr. Graf will support clinical providers in delivering the most effective, highest-quality patient care at lowest cost. Renown Health is excited to announce that Dr. Thomas Graf is joining the organization as its Chief Clinical and Quality Officer on September 20. In this role, Dr. Graf will support clinicians in delivering the most effective, highest-quality patient care at the lowest cost. Dr. Graf will also assist Renown in expanding innovative care models like Hospital at Home and remote patient monitoring technology to deliver patient-centered health care that both convenient and affordable. “At Renown, delivering the highest quality care is our #1 priority. Embracing our vision to improve the health of our community, we are pleased to welcome an experienced leader like Dr. Graf to our organization and to Nevada,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President and CEO, Renown Health. “As the Chief Clinical and Quality Officer, Tom will fuel Renown’s transformation to a value-based care organization, help advance technologies to enhance the patient experience, and collaborate with providers in our medical group, acute care hospitals, and through our clinically integrated network, accountable care organization and affiliation with UNR Med to create a healthier Nevada. Dr. Graf embodies our core values of caring, integrity, collaboration and excellence, and respect for all. We are thrilled to bring him to the Silver State, and to continue to offer health care that is affordable, accessible and of the highest quality.” Graf is a highly accomplished physician executive with leadership experience from leading health care and insurance organizations as well as a national consulting firm. A family medicine physician, researcher and academic, Dr. Graf has focused on driving quality improvement to lower the total cost of care. He has developed and published on care models that have delivered measurably better results for quality, cost, and experience in a variety of venues. He has practiced in an integrated delivery system, with over a decade at Geisinger (PA), as well as clinically integrated networks and accountable care organizations. He also has worked with a number of academic medical centers through his consulting work with The Chartis Group. Dr. Graf is respected for his adaptable and effective leadership style and the ability to create consensus through shared perspectives. Dr. Graf adds, “My goal is to produce greater value for the patient by delivering care that is of highest clinical quality. Renown has a national reputation for delivering excellent care using approaches that are creative, innovative and maximize technology, and I look forward to engaging physicians and administrators in an agenda that supports this vision.” Dr. Graf comes to Renown from Ascension in St. Louis, MO, where he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Population Health and Value Based Care Officer. He has extensive experience in population health, having been involved in clinical re-engineering and payment model evolution since 2005 with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in the Physician Group Practice Demonstration project as well as Geisinger’s Proven Care® and ProvenHealth Navigator® programs. “Choosing a physician and hospital for their care is one of the most important decisions people will ever make. I am excited to begin my work with Renown to help patients enhance their health and well-being,” said Dr. Graf. “I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the great progress that Renown Health is making in becoming the best place to practice medicine and to receive care. I am excited to join this journey of transformation to value- based care, and to serve patients, clinicians and the community.” Dr. Graf will report directly to Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO, Renown Health. Dr. Graf earned his Doctor of Medicine from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and completed his Family Practice Residency at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit.     In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center is named #1 in the State of Nevada for 2021. No other hospital in Nevada earned recognition from U.S. News. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region's largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, the region's only children's hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, the area's most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region's largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Welcomes New Chief Clinical and Quality Officer; Thomas Graf, MD

Dr. Morgan embraces a patient-centered approach to delivering a comprehensive cardiac and vascular program in Nevada. Renown Health is excited to announce that Dr. Jayson Morgan has been promoted to serve as Director of the Cardiovascular Services. Dr. Morgan, who formerly served as the Cardiology Division Chief, began his new position on September 6. Dr. Morgan plays a key role in supporting clinical and administrative leaders to embrace a patient-centered approach in delivering the most effective, highest-quality care within the Institute for Heart and Vascular Health and across Renown Health. Dr. Morgan will expand care, enhance clinical outcomes and transform cardiovascular health care through adopting technological advances which promote patient-centered health care that is both convenient and affordable. “At Renown, delivering the highest quality care is our #1 priority. Embracing our vision to improve the health of Nevadans, we are pleased to promote an extraordinary physician like Dr. Morgan to lead and further develop cardiovascular services - and elevate and grow this important Destination Health program to serve the growing needs of our community,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President and CEO, Renown Health. “Unfortunately, Heart Disease continues to be the #1 cause of death in Washoe County, the state and the nation. Dr. Morgan and his team focus on saving lives and reducing the number of people needing heart and vascular interventions. He embodies our core values of caring, integrity, collaboration and excellence, and respect for all, and we are pleased to have Dr. Morgan at the helm of our cardiovascular program.” Dr. Jayson Morgan is a highly accomplished physician leader. He served as both an Internal Medicine Hospitalist and an Internal Medicine resident at UCSF Health in San Francisco, where he specialized in the care of advanced heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and heart transplant patients. He completed his cardiology fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, CA in 2017 and immediately joined Renown afterwards. In 2019, he served as director of the Echocardiography laboratory at Renown. In 2020, he was promoted to Division Chief, Cardiology. “The experts at Renown’s Institute for Heart and Vascular Health provide an integrated, multi-disciplinary, patient-centered approach to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular disease. I am proud to have Dr. Jayson Morgan leading a team of experts who respond to and treat heart and vascular problems that extend from mild to the most critical of emergencies. Our specialized physicians (cardiologists, interventional radiologists, heart and vascular surgeons) work collaboratively with our clinical team to determine the best treatment plan for each patient,” says Rahul Mediwala, MD, Medical Director, Health Services. “High blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke affect one in three Nevada residents. These diseases are preventable and many acute events are avoidable, by leading heart-healthy lifestyles including not using tobacco products, limiting sodium and adopting a plant-based diet, engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, limiting or eliminating alcohol consumption, and following prescribed medication regimens. Together, we can make a genuine difference in improving the health of our families, friends and neighbors,” says Jayson Morgan, MD, FACC, Director, Cardiovascular Services. “We are pleased to offer a medically supervised, Pritikin-certified, intensive cardiac rehabilitation (ICR) program for those with heart disease. Our expert team creates tailored plans, providing the support heart patients need to make lasting lifestyle changes.” Dr. Morgan continues, “Renown now has 3 cardiac surgeons, 17 cardiologists and 16 advanced practice providers who provide excellent cardiovascular care. Our technical capabilities have expanded with a structural heart program including trans catheter aortic valve replacements (TAVR), trans catheter mitral valve repairs (Mitraclip), patent foramen ovale closures, and atrial septal-defect closures; with over 100 structural heart procedures being performed each year. Our Cardiothoracic surgeons are the highest volume in the region and consistently exceed national performance standards for operative care. Renown Regional Medical Center was the first hospital in the region to implant the CardioMEMS pulmonary artery pressure monitoring system for advanced heart failure patients, dramatically reducing hospitalizations in these patients. Three interventional cardiologists have joined our team which has expanded our capacity to handle interventions for complex coronary artery disease. Renown’s three electrophysiologists have performed over 1000 procedures this year, drastically decreasing the symptomatic burden of atrial fibrillation in our community. In addition, with the UNR Medical School affiliation, we look forward to even greater contributions to cardiovascular research.” Dr. Morgan graduated from Stanford University School of Medicine and graduated from Yale University with his undergraduate education in Chemical Engineering. “I am excited to continue to help patients enhance their health and well-being,” said Dr. Morgan. “I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the great progress that Renown Health is making in becoming the best place to practice medicine and to receive care. I am excited to advance our journey of transformation to value-based care, and to serve patients, clinicians and the community.” To make an appointment with a provider at Renown’s Institute for Heart and Vascular Health, request that your primary care provider make a referral. For more information on Renown’s Institute for Heart and Vascular Health, visit renown.org/Health-Services/Heart-Care. Renown Institute for Health and Vascular Health is the recipient of a number of national awards for outstanding clinical care and service, including: In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings for 2021, Renown Regional Medical Center- #1 in the State of Nevada for 2021. No other hospital in Nevada earned recognition from U.S. News. Renown Regional Medical Center is High Performing, its highest rating possible, for Heart Failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Awarded by the American College of Surgeons for the Renown Regional earned America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Critical Care Award™ (2021) for Superior clinical outcomes in treating pulmonary embolism, respiratory system failure, sepsis, and diabetic emergencies. Regional also earned the Pulmonary Care Excellence Award (2021), for superior outcomes. Designated Level II Trauma Center. For the 30th year, Renown Regional Medical Center is northern Nevada's only designated level II trauma center. Renown Regional awarded The Get with the Guidelines – Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award for continually ensuring heart failure patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, as well as AHA’s Mission: Lifeline Gold Receiving honor for the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks. American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award. Renown Regional Medical Center is one of only 225 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor. The award recognizes Renown’s success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Renown has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, the region’s only children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Welcomes Director, Cardiovascular Services; Jayson Morgan, MD, FACC

This week, many of the nation’s health care systems in communities across the U.S. began vaccinating physicians and health care workers caring for patients with COVID-19. Many of these health care heroes have been on the front-line of this pandemic and working around-the clock over the last ten months. Vaccinations signal hope for the future Here in Washoe County, today is the highly anticipated start date of what public health and medical experts hope is a nationwide wave of vaccinations that signal the beginning of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Today’s good news from Renown coincided with a dark new milestone for Washoe County—384 confirmed COVID-19 deaths, and over 13,579 active cases in our population of nearly 500,000. COVID-19 positivity test results and hospitalizations continue to be high across the country, our state and here in northern Nevada; straining hospital capacity, physicians and healthcare workers.  Today we saw a bright light at the end of this dark tunnel. Renown began vaccinating health care workers caring for patients with COVID-19, and invited media to view the first vaccinations of those on the front-line of COVID-19. One vaccine, a Herculean effort of thousands “Although the vaccination process as you see it here looks relatively simple, it took a herculean logistical effort to implement the COVID-19 vaccination process that has begun today,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. “Today, thanks to the synchronized efforts of thousands of people and organizations across the country, we give thanks for this vaccination provided to Luis Martinez, an excellent ambassador for the thousands of healthcare heroes caring for patients with COVID-19. The health and safety of our staff is our top priority, and we remain steadfast in our determination to fight the good fight for our community.”  Luis, on the front-line of the COVID-19 pandemic, receives 1st vaccine from Renown Luis Martinez received the 1st of his Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine which received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration last week. He will receive the second and final vaccination in the series in 21 days.  The first dose of vaccine was given to Luis outside of his vehicle so cameras could capture the experience. Renown’s COVID-19 Vaccination process includes pre-scheduling physicians and employees through the Epic MyChart electronic medical record used by Renown. Employees are masked, and in their personal vehicles, as they drive through the vaccination site. Each physician and healthcare worker provides their verification, identification, documentation and consent. They then extend their upper arm to receive the Pfizer vaccination. Following the receipt of the vaccination they have a 15-minute observation period to assure they do not experience any immediate side effects. These Tier 1A healthcare employees were encouraged to schedule their vaccination after their completed work schedule to have time to rest. As with all vaccinations, there is a potential for injection site reactions (redness, swelling and pain) as well as fever, fatigue, headache, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain and/or joint pain. Fever is not an infrequent side effect, especially on the 2nd dose, so these vaccinated employees will self-monitor their temperatures, as they cannot work at Renown with a fever. In addition to Luis, you’ll see, first in his truck- Dr. Bret Frey, representing the Medical Staff and Emergency Medicine physicians at Renown; Nurse Matt Polak, Supervisor of Clinical Nursing of Renown’s Respiratory Intensive Care Unit representing Renown nurses; Holly Irwin, a Clinical Respiratory Therapist in her vehicle; Alexis Bertauche, Respiratory Specialist in his vehicle; Eric Whitney, the supervisor representing the 168 members of Renown’s Environmental Services team who have performed extensive disinfecting measures throughout the pandemic, physician representatives from partners at UNR School of Medicine, Reno Orthopedic Clinic, the Surgery Center of Reno and across the community.  Brighter days ahead for Luis Luis has been working in Renown’s Alternate Care Site in the Mill Street parking structure since it opened to patients in mid-November. He’s been at Renown since 2016, where he started as a phlebotomist and was encouraged to explore career advancement in the medical field. He applied to work as a technician on Renown’s Clinical Decision Unit- a short stay unit within the hospital for people who need clinical care, but do not need to be admitted to the hospital. Luis worked with patients and clinicians in the Clinical Decision Unit for a year before requesting to work in Renown’s innovative Alternate Care Site, built for patients recovering from COVID-19, for additional care before they returned home. Luis was scheduled to take the Medical College Admission Test® in April of this year to fulfill his dreams of becoming a doctor, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to change his plans. He plans to reschedule his medical school admission exam in February. He is excited to begin his training, possibly at UNR School of Medicine, and hopes one day to be a physician caring competently and compassionately for those in need.  Luis has so much to look forward to, after such a difficult year. Luis turned 33 in October, and on his birthday, contracted COVID-19 after attending a family party. He experienced fever and noticed how dramatically the COVID-19 virus affected his breathing, his lungs, and his energy level. After spending time at home recovering, Luis recovered, tested negative, and returned to work. As a result of his experience and his interest in medicine, Luis has done a lot of research on the vaccine.  Luis is bilingual and volunteers with CARE Chest of Sierra Nevada, a non-profit organization that provides free medical equipment, supplies, and prescription assistance to underserved populations when he is not working at Renown.  Vaccine one more tool to help fight pandemic “The best protection from COVID-19 will be a combination of getting a COVID-19 vaccine, wearing a mask, staying at least 6 feet away from others, avoiding crowds, and washing your hands often,” says Amy McCombs, MSN, RN, CCRN, CNML, vice president of Quality for Acute Services for Renown, and the champion of the vaccination effort for Renown. “No one tool alone will stop this pandemic, it will take a combination of all of us using all of these efforts to fight the spread of this virus. Though there has been positive news about vaccine development, no one knows when those vaccines will be ready for widespread use. In the meantime, everyone must remain vigilant, take precautions and follow public health orders.”  “This vaccination is a game-changer in terms of improving the health of our community,” said Paul Sierzenski, MD, MSHQS, Chief Medical Officer, Acute Services, Renown Health. "Given the demands of this COVID-19 pandemic, we are pleased to be able to provide this vaccination to help in the fight. We will follow CDC recommendations for a tiered approach to vaccine distribution. Our goal is that by spring, all Renown physicians; employees and their family members; and all Hometown Health members and Renown patients interested in receiving the vaccine will have an opportunity to be vaccinated.” The COVID-19 vaccine is not mandatory for all Renown employees, but is strongly advised. Renown is covering all costs of the vaccine, and it is being offered free of charge to employees. Register for Renown Epic MyChart now. To streamline the notification, consent, scheduling and reminder process for vaccine distribution, as well as to post to Web IZ Nevada’s Statewide Immunization Information System, all who are interested in receiving the vaccine through Renown will need to enroll and obtain an Epic MyChart account.  Stay Up-to-date on COVID-19 Renown Health is prepared to safely screen, diagnose and care for patients with respiratory illness, including COVID-19. To stay up-to-date on communications regarding Renown’s distribution of the COVID19 vaccine, FAQs and the scientific evidence behind the vaccine, visit https://covid.renown.org/ 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. To donate to Renown patients or providers, visit https://www.renown.org/donations-covid-19/.   About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org. About the Washoe County Health District The Washoe County Health District has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making Washoe County District Board of Health. The District consists of five divisions: Administrative Health Services, Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Epidemiology & Public Health Preparedness. More info can be found here.

Read More About First COVID-19 Vaccines Administered to Physicians Today