RENOWN NEWSROOM

During National Healthcare Week, clinical providers who are “Best of the Best” being honored for demonstrating exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by you- their patients. May 8, 2023 (Reno, NEV.) – “Amazing! Phenomenal! Thank you for always showing genuine concern. You are kind, considerate and caring. You are interested in me. You are the best doctor/nurse practitioner I have ever had. I trust you with my life. You act on things right away. You are awesome. You have saved my life, and my family. You are knowledgeable, thorough, intelligent, and compassionate. You are my favorite. You are my angel. You have made me better. You always make me feel like a success, even if I could have tried harder. I love you. I thank you.” These are some of the comments made by patients regarding their doctors and advanced practice providers who will be honored next week by the Patient & Family Advisory Council and Renown Health with a special breakfast celebration in south Reno. In honor of National Healthcare Week, Renown Medical Group, which offers primary and specialty care at locations in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Fallon, Fernley, and Silver Springs will honor 37 physicians and advanced practice providers at the Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award Celebration. This annual award, supported by the Renown Health Foundation and a donor family, honors clinicians who demonstrate exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by their patients. Recipients of this award are ranked in the top ten percent nationally in provider communication for 2022, as measured by over 11 thousand patients who responded nationally to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CG-CAPHS) or Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems and over 14,000 local patients who gave them top scores on the national patient experience survey. Patients were asked if their medical providers explained things in a way they could understand; if they listened carefully; if they showed respect for what they had to say; if they spent enough time with them; if they read their medical records; if they ordered tests and followed up with them on their results; and to give them a rating on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 was the highest score. “These incredible medical providers set the gold standard for excellent communications with patients, scoring in the top 10% nationally for compassion, caring, competency and communications,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are extremely proud of them and their outstanding dedication to patients, families and our community.” The awards will be given by his family in remembrance of the late Dr. John W. Spellman, human rights advocate, scholar and professor. Dr. Spellman treasured kindness, scholarship, debate and medical providers who demonstrated exceptional communications skills and held their patients in the highest regard. The Recipients of the 2022 Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award are: Christina Alsop, DNP, AOCNP, Oncology Nurse Practitioner, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Pamela Burgio, APRN, Renown Primary Care Jennifer Brown, APRN, Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Stephanie Carlesen, DNP, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Carolyn Dennehey, MD, Rheumatology Benjamin Ebner, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Christopher Driscoll, MD, Pediatrics, Renown Children’s Hospital Kerac Falk, MD, FACOG, Renown Women’s Health Michael Hardacre, MD, Radiation Oncology, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Robin Hollen, DNP, FNP-C, APRN, M.Ed., MSN, Breastfeeding Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Renown Women’s Health James Martin Johnston, MD, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Renown Children’s Hospital Stephanie Jones, DO, Physical Medicine/Rehabilitation Charlotte Kermode, APRN, Renown Primary Care Michele Kiser, MD, Renown Primary Care Matthew Klippenstein, MD, Renown Primary Care Anamarie Manea, MD, Pediatric Endocrinology, Renown Children’s Hospital Marie McCoramck, MD, Renown Primary Care Catherine Mindeguia, APRN, Renown Primary Care Dean Miyagawa, MD, Internal Medicine, Renown Primary Care Amanda Morgan, MD, Pulmonary Medicine, Renown Medical Group Cecelia O’Dowd, MD, Renown Primary Care Kasie Reynolds, APRN, Renown Children's Hospital, Behavioral Health Jocelyn Schneider, APRN, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Vanessa Slots, MD, Renown Pediatrics Daniel Spogen, MD, Renown UNR Primary Care, Sports Medicine Jennifer Simcox, APRN, Renown Primary Care Mark Stovak, MD, Renown UNR Primary Care, Sports Medicine Shining Sun, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Jennifer Sutton, MD, Radiation Oncology, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Robert Swackhamer, MD, Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health Carl Thomas, MD, Renown Primary Care Katherine Thyssen, DO, Geriatric Medicine, Renown Primary Care Ly Vu, MD, Renown Primary Care Scott Michael Wallace, MD, Renown Pediatrics Kristin Wilson, MD, Renown Pediatrics Bryan Young MD, Internal Medicine, Renown Primary Care Jacob Zucker, MD, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Renown Children’s Hospital Since 2018, Renown Medical Group has posted thousands of verified patient ratings and comments of their employed providers online and viewable by the public at renown.org. “Our goal is to consistently exceed customer expectations, every day, and with every encounter. At Renown, we embrace transparency and empower patients,” says Rahul Mediwala, MD, CEO of Renown Medical Group. Dr. Mediwala should know – he is also a highly rated physician by his patients, has practiced for more than 20 years, and sees the ratings program as another way to support employed physicians and providers at Renown Health.   Only patients who’ve had an outpatient visit with a Renown Medical Group provider may be selected to receive a survey from CH-CAHPS. This way, Renown can confirm the results are from patients who have been seen by the provider. All comments are posted anonymously, and patients are asked for their permission to use their comments. Feedback is shared with every provider. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. Almost 700 Renown Medical Group primary care and specialty providers are currently accepting new patients and accept most health insurance plans, including Renown’s not-for-profit insurance plan, Hometown Health. To find the doctor or provider that is best for you visit renown.org, self-schedule with your established provider at MyChart.Renown.org or schedule an appointment with a Renown Medical Group or University Health provider by calling our agents available by phone- Wed-Fri: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat-Sun: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at 775-982-5000. Renown Health is currently hiring in all areas. Search for a new career opportunity and apply online at careers.renown.org. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

Read More About Reno Home To 37 Of The Nation's Best Patient Communicators

Most Wired Hospitals Use Technology to Deliver Better Patient Care & Experience. The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has released their coveted Digital Health Most Wired Survey results for 2022, recognizing Renown Health with Most Wired status. Among the more than 38,000 organizations surveyed by CHIME, Renown Health ranked above peers in categories like analytics and data management, population health, infrastructure and patient engagement. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. Renown Health earned a Most Wired level 7 (of 10) achievement for use of technology for better patient care and patient experience in both CHIME’s acute and ambulatory surveys. This is Renown’s sixth consecutive year on CHIME’s Most Wired list, and Renown is the only healthcare organization in Nevada recognized with this prestigious award. “New and emerging technologies have transformed healthcare in recent years,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We are proud that our physicians, nurses, clinicians, and employees continue to be nationally recognized for their efforts to implement clinical systems and digital health tools to improve care for patients. Improving care through advances in technology and IT systems allows us to realize meaningful outcomes including increasing patient access to healthcare services, improving patient experience, and reducing costs across the entire system.” “To care for all those we serve, Renown’s IT team has open discussions and collaboration with care providers to think creatively and strategically about how to deploy advanced technologies that enable the best clinical outcomes for our patients,” says Chuck Podesta, Chief Information Officer, Renown Health. “Renown’s proactive approach to technology supports our mission– and is one of the many elements that set our organization apart. We are honored by CHIME’s recognition of our teams and processes to better care for patients.” “When clinicians have instant access to the information that they need to make care decisions; patients benefit,” says Sarah Kramer, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer, Renown Health. “Our technology investments include a single, unified electronic medical record system that spans all major hospital areas including inpatient, outpatient, emergency, intensive care, and surgical units. Having a single digital electronic medical record for our patients makes it possible for an entire team of clinicians across the continuum of care able to review a patient’s chart without needing to request that a physical chart be transported to them, which can take time and resources and sometimes delay care decisions. Our automated medical record system allows the right information to flow to our clinicians when and where they need it, ensuring safe and effective care. Patients also have ready access to all their medical information through the MyChart ® smartphone app, and are able to self-schedule for mammograms and lab appointments, message their primary care providers and refill medications as needed.” “The medical record is not the only area that benefits from an infusion of health IT,” says Melanie Morris, MSN, RN, Director of the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC). “Renown is pleased to serve as a model of coordinated patient care for the nation. Similar to how air traffic controllers manage traffic in and out of airports, the Renown Transfer and Operations Center (RTOC) team sees a birds-eye view of what’s happening with patients across our entire integrated delivery system. Having access to real-time information is critical because every action we take is tied to improving the health and well-being of our patients. Time and accuracy are always of the essence, and this Center drastically improves the efficiency of the entire Renown Health system.” Success in digital health increasingly determines the quality of patient care, and the scope of the CHIME Digital Health Most Wired survey reflects the progress of leading healthcare providers as they reinvent healthcare for a new century. The survey and recognition program serves as a comprehensive digital health checkup for healthcare organizations worldwide. “We are proud to honor your team’s exceptional dedication to excellence in digital health,” said Russell P. Branzell President and CEO, CHIME. “Your pioneering performance in the industry inspires other organizations by example. Patients in communities around the world receive better care when you drive change through digital transformation, as you have proven through your success in this rigorous program.” 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 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 more than 5,000 members in 58 countries plus two U.S. territories and over 190 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME and its three associations provide 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.

Read More About Renown Health Honored with 2022 Digital Health Most Wired Award

The award is given annually to a member of the Nevada pharmacy community making significant and sustained contributions to the field Kate Ward, Pharm.D., BCPS Director of Clinical Pharmacy at Renown Health is the 2022 recipient of the Nevada Society of Health System Pharmacists (NVSHP) President’s Award. Dr. Ward has been with Renown for over a decade, starting as a Clinical Pharmacist in 2009. As the Director of Clinical Pharmacy, she is responsible for the oversight of all clinical pharmacy activities at Renown Regional, South Meadows and Rehab. Additionally, Dr. Ward is the Residency Director of the Post-Graduate Year 1 (PGY1) Pharmacy Practice Residency at Renown Regional Medical Center. “We are so proud that Kate has been recognized by the Nevada Society of Health System Pharmacists with the President’s Award and for her many accomplishments as a member of our Renown Pharmacy team. With 66% of adults taking five or more drugs per day and 27% taking 10 or more per day, a pharmacist’s review is critical in supporting patient safety and well-being,” says Tom Graf, MD, interim CEO, Renown Health. “Beyond that, pharmacists have the ability to suggest methods for accurately and effectively taking prescribed medications, discuss medication safety, identify and manage side effects and assist patients and families in managing chronic health conditions.” As a licensed pharmacist, Dr. Ward holds The Doctor of Pharmacy degree (abbreviated Pharm.D. or PharmD) from the University of Colorado. The Pharm.D. is a professional degree similar to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). As a doctorate, it represents the increasing responsibility pharmacists have in healthcare systems and the high trust Americans have in pharmacists. The Doctor of Pharmacy degree takes three to four years of undergraduate pre-professional (prerequisite) coursework, followed by four academic years in a professional program. Most students need four years to complete their prerequisite courses. Thus, it usually takes eight years of college study to earn a Pharm.D. and become a pharmacist. Pharmacists working in hospitals and health systems often complete additional post-graduate training after a Pharm.D. degree. Dr. Ward completed a PGY1 Residency at Stanford prior to joining the Pharmacy Department at Renown. “Dr. Ward is such an asset to Renown and our community. Her incredible perseverance to reach for and achieve higher aspirations has resulted in this important recognition by our peers across the state. She consistently contributes her pharmacy expertise to patients, physicians, clinicians and healthcare students and volunteers her time to advance the profession at both the state and national level through pharmacy professional organization participation. It is wonderful to have her efforts recognized by NVSHP,” says Adam Porath, Pharm.D., BCACP, BCPS, FASHP, Vice President, Pharmacy. On Sept. 24, NVSHP and the Nevada Pharmacy Alliance held their annual joint meeting at Renown Regional Medical Center. During this meeting, Dr. Ward was awarded the NVSHP President’s Award. The President’s Award is awarded annually at NVSHP President's discretion to a member making significant and sustained contributions to NVSHP. Dr. Ward was specifically recognized for representing the State of Nevada at the American Society Health System Pharmacists House of Delegates for several consecutive years, as well as her continuous contributions to the annual NVSHP Student Symposium. Established in October 2006, NVSHP has diligently worked on continuing the strong foundation developed to better meet the needs of health-system pharmacists in Nevada. The organization was established on a strong mission statement that enables Nevada's pharmacists to be heard, from all regions of the state and in one collective voice to advocate for patient care. Are you interested in working with this award-winning team? The Renown Health Pharmacy is hiring for multiple roles, including pharmacy technician and clinical pharmacist. For more information, visit careers.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Renown's Dr. Kate Ward Honored with Nevada Society of Health System Pharmacists (NVSHP) President's Award

Renown Health team recognized nationally for excellence in health care communications and outreach. Each year, Ragan Communications and PR Daily celebrate the most successful teams in the communication, public relations, marketing and employee wellbeing industries. As the leading voice in organizational communications – both internal and external – Ragan Communications recognizes the industry’s best communications teams. This prestigious award recognizes professional excellence while inspiring and engaging other current and future communicators regarding best practices. This year, Ragan Communications and PR Daily have selected the Marketing, Communications, Patient Experience and Community Outreach Team for Renown Health as “Communications Team of the Year.” In selecting Renown Health for this honor, Ragan judges noted that Renown Health earned its spot as a “Communications Team of the Year” for their communications response to the COVID-19 pandemic and for engaging the community to build a high-quality, trusted and desired health care experience, brand and reputation. Specifically the judged noted that Renown “implemented a Health Incident Command Structure to serve the community, organizing communications resources to mitigate, prepare, respond, communicate and recover from the COVID-19 outbreak and enhancing Renown ‘s capacity to provide access to care. The Renown team also implemented a plan to communicate safety, and prevention messaging, creating and distributing timely, accurate, and relevant communications customized to audience needs to reduce anxiety and maintain Renown’s leadership position for patient safety.” Judges also noted the success of the inspirational brand and messages of the “Fight the Good Fight” campaign, which helped to inspire and motivate a community through a difficult time. Through the pandemic, the Communications team also successfully implemented a new website, renown.org. Over 2.2 million people a year now visit the site to find a doctor by reading honest reviews from certified patients for Renown Medical Group providers, enroll for Hometown Health insurance benefits or seek health information or care. The Renown Health Marketing, Communications, Patient Experience and Community Outreach Team is led by Suzanne Hendery, Cristal Herrera, Emily MacMillan, Whitney Hansen and Annie Zucker and represent professionals with research, digital, web, communications, marketing, outreach, customer service and relationship-building expertise. The team was selected as one of three health care organizations and amid a flood of impressive entrants from all industries including Twitter and 3M. Commenting on the team, Thomas Graf, MD, FAAFP, CEO of Renown Health said, “We are very proud that Renown Health has been honored for excellence in communications. Improving the health and wellness of an entire population of people is a huge task- and it takes all of us, working together, to accomplish great things. We focus on preventing illnesses, and we benefit from a team of professional communicators who believe in- and demonstrate our mission- to keep people healthy, to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, and to achieve the vision of a healthy Nevada.” Renown Health is hiring key roles to support the health and well-being of our community, and encourages those with a passion for service to join the Renown family to Fight the Good Fight. Apply at careers.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Renown Home to "Communications Team of the Year"

Pictured left to right: Erin VanKirk, MSN, RN, Renown Health Director of Nursing Education; Mitch Krebs, Program Director at Helmsley Charitable Trust; Dr. Graf, Renown Health CEO; Greg Walaitis Renown Health Chief Development Officer. Renown Health will use the grant to build the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center to improve the health system’s training abilities The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has granted $3.1 million to Renown Health for construction of a new simulation and innovation center that will greatly expand the health system’s ability to train healthcare providers throughout northern Nevada. The new center will be named the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center. Expected to open in April 2023, the center will feature three simulated patient rooms, classroom space, computer labs and a conference center, allowing trainers to run current and future healthcare professionals through real-life acute, outpatient, telemedicine and specialty care scenarios. The new center will let Renown Health train substantially more nurses, physicians, community clinical partners, medical students and rural providers while improving medical and nursing expertise to support staff throughout northern Nevada. “The Helmsley Charitable Trust is excited to fund this new simulation center, which will provide healthcare professionals across rural Nevada with state-of-the-art training in a variety of situations they’ll encounter,” said Walter Panzirer, a trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “The project fits with our goal to level the playing field by giving rural residents access to top-notch healthcare, regardless of their ZIP code.” “Simulation education has become standard practice for many of our healthcare personnel,” said Erin Van Kirk MSN, RN, Director of Nursing Education. “This lab will provide expanded opportunities in a controlled setting where physicians, nurses, and students can gain valuable experience in providing the best care possible.” Renown Health has outgrown its current simulation lab, which opened in 2016 in Renown Regional Medical Center. The new, larger, state-of-the-art simulation and innovation center will increase Renown Health’s training capacity from 1,500 to 2,500 each year. The new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art simulation mannequins and other equipment that includes a telemetry monitor, IV and epidural equipment, a code cart, a defibrillator, a balloon pump, ventilators and a cooling machine. The center will also support Renown Health’s recently established partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, expanding training modules focused on rural health and virtual care through telemedicine. “The facility will help Renown Health respond to our region’s growing population by allowing us to support the training and competency necessary for our care providers to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, MBA, Chief Nursing Executive at Renown Health. “This generous grant for the new simulation and innovation center from the Helmsley Charitable Trust is truly an investment in the bright future we envision for Renown, our care teams and the community.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About the Helmsley Charitable Trust The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional efforts in the U.S. and around the world in health and select place-based initiatives. Since beginning active grantmaking in 2008, Helmsley has committed more than $3 billion for a wide range of charitable purposes. Helmsley’s Rural Healthcare Program funds innovative projects that use information technologies to connect rural patients to emergency medical care, bring the latest medical therapies to patients in remote areas, and provide state-of-the-art training for rural hospitals and EMS personnel. To date, this program has awarded more than $500 million to organizations and initiatives in the states of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana, and Nevada. For more information, visit helmsleytrust.org.

Read More About Helmsley Charitable Trust Grants $3.1 Million to Renown Health

Three scholarship recipients honored with Cherie Elvin Memorial Scholarship for 2016 Reno Air Race tragedy; Ten others recognized with nursing scholarships by Renown Health Foundation donors. Thirteen area nursing students were the stars of the show today at an event celebrating nursing education. Renown Health leaders held the 2022 Nursing Scholarship Award ceremony to recognize future nurses making a genuine difference in the lives of others, and awarded scholarships to help them pursue their education. Scholarships were presented to thirteen nursing students who are also working at Renown Health and currently pursuing their nursing degrees. Today’s financial awards build on scholarship support from The Cherie Elvin Memorial Fund, which was created by the Elvin Family as a legacy to honor their mother, Cherie, who died at the 2011 Reno Air Races.  Melodie Osborn, RN Chief Nursing Executive; Jana Elliott, RN, DNP, Chief Nursing Officer for Renown Regional; Erin VanKirk, RN, Director of Nursing Education and Alicia Glassco, RN, Director of Medical-Surgical Nursing, presented the scholarships with Thomas Graf, MD, interim CEO of Renown Health during the event held at Mack Auditorium at Renown Regional Medical Center this morning. Members of the Elvin family attended the event via video link, and spoke to the group after watching a clip from Broken Propeller, an online documentary film by producer/director Christine Lazzarini that honors the heroes who responded to the tragedy on September 16, 2011. It was on that day that The Galloping Ghost, a highly modified North American P-51D Mustang racing aircraft, crashed into spectators while competing at the Reno Air Races in killing the pilot, James K. "Jimmy" Leeward, and ten people on the ground. Sixty-nine more people on the ground were injured. It was the third-deadliest airshow disaster in U.S. history.  The 2011 air race crash had an immeasurable impact on the entire Elvin family. Cherie, 73, lost her life, while Chuck, her husband of 52 years, their two sons and daughter-in-law all lost part of their right legs. The family received treated at area hospitals and is still grateful for the care, kindness and support received in northern Nevada. Cherie's son, Bill, and daughter-in-law, Rachel, spoke to the group saying, “As the Elvin family we honor and remember Cherie and work to support nurses in our community.” The care the family received from the physicians, nurses, hospital care providers, EMS teams, and the community inspired the Elvin Family to increase their funding from one scholarship to three scholarships.  Cherie Elvin Memorial Fund scholarships were presented to Alexis Perkins, Katelynn Mahone, Veronica Wentker, who all attend the nursing program at Carrington College.  To recognize the dedication and sacrifice, and to encourage others to pursue a nursing education, the nursing leadership team and Renown Health Foundation donors, for the first time, also awarded scholarships to ten additional recipients for a total of 13 awards. Each scholarship is valued at $1,000 and awarded to employees who are committed to working at the bedside, convey the fundamental qualities of a nurse and look to connect with patients recovering from traumatic situations. Kami Sherpa, who is a critical care technician in Telemetry, wants to work as a registered nurse in Telemetry or the Intensive Care Unit when she graduates. She is currently attending the Orvis School of Nursing at the University of Nevada, Reno. Kami wrote, “I lost my grandad at a very young age. When he died, I decided to become a nurse and to do my best to make every person’s hospital stay a good one. I am the first person in my family to go to school and to earn a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship means so much. I know my mom and my grandma will be proud. I promised them I would take care of people in need and ease their pain. Nursing is my passion in life.” Nursing is an extremely rewarding career, and it has the added benefit of being in high demand. However, getting through nursing school takes a lot of hard work—and it can be expensive. According to the  Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2019, there were approximately 3 million people working as registered nurses in the U.S. Demand for the role is expected to increase by 7% from 2019 to 2029. The average cost of nursing school can vary widely. The cost for a Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN) can be comparable to any other four year degree. According to U.S. News, the average cost of tuition for the 2020-2021 school year was $9,687 for a four year public school, and $35,087 for a four year private school. Some may pursue other pathways, such as an online RN to BSN program, which can sometimes be more affordable ranging between $25,000 to $80,000 in cost. While this may seem costly, the median annual salary for an RN in 2019 was $75,330. “There has never been a more important time to recruit and retain qualified candidates to become nurses,” said Thomas Graf, MD, interim CEO of Renown Health, as he announced the increased commitment of donors to Renown Health Foundation.  “Your journey to become a nurse includes a lifelong commitment to learning and showing up as your best self,” said Jana Elliott, Chief Nursing Officer for Renown Regional Medical Center. “Treat each patient as the most important person in the world to you. There is no more important or fulfilling work than to serve as a nurse.” She added, “You are on an incredible journey filled with joy, fulfillment, and a deep sense of purpose. Being a nurse requires a passion for people, a profound belief in serving others; trust in your teammates, the ability to embrace change, flexibility and true grit. It is an incredible privilege to be a nurse and to serve others in what is, perhaps, their greatest time of need.  The scholarship recipients of the 2022 Renown Health Nursing Scholarships are: Jion Manicdao Emily Thomas Christian Roberts Blake Conger Alaina Galyean Sadie Chalupa Jillian Dutra Leslie Zolan Kami Sherpa Erin Kristin Ramos Renown Health values and encourages employees to continue their education and supports career aspirations and goals. The education assistance program offers loan reimbursement and repayment opportunities as well as educational and financial guidance from experts. College tuition, certification and certificate reimbursement is provided for employees who are currently enrolled in college/university or taking the extra steps to receive a professional certification or certificate. In addition, the organization supports employees who have previously completed their education and are now managing the burden of student loans.  Renown Health is currently hiring registered nurses and other positions at https://careers.renown.org/ As a not-for-profit health system, Renown relies heavily on community funding. To donate to the Renown Health Foundation and nursing education, please call 775-982-5545 or email foundation@renown.org.   About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Thirteen Area Nursing Students Recognized With Scholarships

“Amazing! Phenomenal! Thank you for always showing genuine concern. You are kind, considerate and caring. You are interested in me. You are the best doctor I have ever had. I trust you with my life. You act on things, right away. You are awesome. You have saved my life, and my family. You are knowledgeable, thorough, intelligent and compassionate. You are my favorite. You are my angel baby. You have made me better. You always make me feel like a success, even if I could have tried harder. I love you. I thank you.” These are some of the comments made by patients regarding their doctors and advanced practice providers honored this morning by Sy Johnson, President and Chief of Staff for Renown Health. In honor of Healthcare Week, Renown Medical Group, the largest medical practice in northern Nevada, honored 46 physicians and advanced practice providers at the Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award Celebration. This new annual award, supported by the Renown Health Foundation charitable organization and a donor family, honors physicians and advanced practice providers who demonstrate exceptional communications skills in their clinical practice, as awarded by their patients. Recipients of this award are ranked in the top ten percent nationally in provider communication for 2021, as measured by over 11 thousand patients who responded to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CG-CAPHS) or Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems patient experience survey between October 2020 and June 2021. Patients were asked if their medical providers explained things in a way they could understand; if they listened carefully; if they showed respect for what they had to say; if they spent enough time with them; if they read their medical records; if they ordered tests and followed up with them on their results; and to give them a rating on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 was the highest score. “As honorees, your patients have given you a 10, an A+ and you set the gold standard for excellent communications with patients-scoring in the top 10% nationally,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Renown Medical Group. “I love what I do, and it’s wonderful to know that my patients appreciate the care I provide,” said Christina Alsop, DNP, one of the providers honored today. The awards were given in remembrance of Dr. John W. Spellman, human rights advocate, scholar and professor, 7/27/1934 to 6/25/2021 by his family. The Recipients of the 2021 Dr. John Spellman Excellence in Patient Communications Award are: Alsop, Christina Barangan, Caroline J. Basho, Shruti Bloch, Melissa P Bryan, Janice K. Budhecha, Sonia Burgio, Pamela A. Cavin, Lisa C. Dimpel, Ashley J. Dorsa, Denise J. Galanopoulos, Christos A. Galdo, Bella B. Grudzinski, Courtney Dianne Hansen, Benjamin Hardacre, Michael C. Healy, Sara Anne Kermode, Charlotte A. Kiser, Michele J. Klippenstein, Matthew Landis, Philip H. May, Whitney Medina, Mary Beth E. Mindeguia, Catherine E. Miyagawa, Dean Moore, Willa F. Morris, Katelyn Morton, Lillian Nielsen, Lorri Nylk, Janina Park, Susan J. Patel, Bejal Powers, Cindy M. Roumanas, Athan Safdi, Adam Sandefur, Lauren L. Schnell Blitstein, Jamie M. Silverhart, Julie A. Stodtmeister, Russell T. Sutton, Jennifer B. Tay, Jennifer Thyssen, Katherine A. Wagner, Karen Wiese, Matthew C. Wilson, Kristin L, Zucker, Jacob P. Patients served include those at Renown Regional Medical Center, the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, and #1 Hospital in the State of Nevada in U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings for 2021. Physicians and providers also provide services to patients at Renown South Meadows Medical Center, named #1 Best Hospital for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report; and to patients at RenownRehabilitation Hospital, northern Nevada’s only Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)- accredited hospital, specializing in the treatment of brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. Almost 700 Renown Medical Group primary care and specialty providers are currently accepting new patients and accept most health insurance plans, including Renown’s not-for-profit insurance plan, Hometown Health. To find the doctor or provider that is best for you visit renown.org, or self schedule with your established provider at MyChart or call the Renown Customer Engagement Center at 775-982-4100. Renown Health is currently hiring in all areas. Search for a new career opportunity and apply online at careers.renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

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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

Renown Health CEO, Dr. Tony Slonim Elected to Highest Office with American Hospital Association.  Renown Health President and CEO, Anthony Slonim, M.D., DrPH, FACHE, has been elected to serve as a member of the American Hospital Association (AHA) Board of Trustees for a three-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2022. The Board of Trustees is the highest policymaking body of the AHA and has ultimate authority for the governance and management of the organization. The American Hospital Association (AHA) is the national organization that represents over 40,000 individual members and serves over 5,000  hospitals, health care networks, and their patients and communities. As a representative and advocate for those serving in the health care field, Dr. Slonim's role as a Trustee will be to ensure that members' perspectives and needs are heard and addressed in national health policy development, legislative and regulatory debates, and judicial matters. Dr. Slonim joins an elite list of CEOs from the nation’s most respected health care organizations in AHA Board service, including Yale New Haven Health (CT), Dartmouth Hitchcock Health (NH), Providence Health (WA), Henry Ford Health (MI), UMass Memorial Health (MA), Vanderbilt University Medical Center (TN), and Advocate Aurora Health (WI). The American Hospital Association was founded in 1898, the same year Marie Curie began studying uranium as a treatment for cancer. Dr. Slonim is among the first health care leaders from Nevada elected to serve on the AHA Board of Trustees. In an announcement to the national media, the AHA wrote, “Anthony Slonim, MD, DrPH, leads Renown's charitable mission of making a genuine difference in the community's health and well-being for one of the nation's most innovative and progressive health systems.” Steve Sisolak, Governor of the State of Nevada, in support of Dr. Slonim’s nomination wrote, “Both Dr. Slonim and I share a common interest for improving the health of over 3 million residents of our state. I urge you to appoint him to this position, as his national leadership would benefit the American Hospital Association, our state and our nation.” Brian Sandoval, President of the University of Nevada wrote in his nomination, “Dr. Slonim has always answered the call, and worked with me to improve health through proactive community-based prevention, to create an exceptional healthcare system for those with acute and chronic diseases, and to care for all people in our community.” Bill Welch, President and CEO of the Nevada Hospital Association, wrote in support, “I consider Dr. Anthony Slonim  to be one of the most extraordinary leaders in health care today.” Dr. Slonim is recognized nationally as a thought and opinion leader who does not accept the status quo. He is a quadruple board-certified physician by training and holds a Doctorate in Public Health and Health Policy with Fellowships in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), American Association of Physician Leaders (AAPL), and the College of Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Slonim’s holds a university appointment at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, is a highly sought after speaker on healthcare trends and leadership development, holds a Six Sigma Black Belt and is a 2-time TEDx speaker. Dr. Slonim has authored more than 120 publications, 15 textbooks, and has millions of dollars in research funding to his name. Modern Healthcare has named Dr. Slonim as one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Healthcare. He has been named to Becker's Hospital Review's "Physician Leaders to Know" list since 2014. Before joining Renown Health in 2014, Slonim served on the senior leadership teams for Barnabas Health in New Jersey, Carilion Clinic in Virginia and Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Slonim, who was also a registered nurse, got his medical degree from New York Medical College, served four years in the U.S. Public Service Commissioned Corps as a commander, and earned both his master's and doctoral degrees in public health and health policy from The George Washington University's Center for Health Policy Studies.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improving the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Prestigious Honor Shines National Spotlight on Health Care in Nevada

Healthgrades deems the region's only trauma center among the top 5 percent in the nation for overall clinical experience. Healthgrades, a leading national resource for trusted information about physicians and hospitals, recently announced award recipients of 2021 America's 250 Best Hospitals™. Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nev. is recognized among the top hospitals in the nation for consistently providing outstanding, quality care. Healthgrades® determines this distinction based on clinical quality outcomes for 32 conditions and procedures. Patients treated at America’s Best Hospitals are more likely to experience a successful treatment without major complications. “I am honored to lead and support dedicated healthcare heroes who are working tirelessly to make a genuine difference in the health and well-bring of every patient and family we serve,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, FACHE, President and CEO of Renown. “We understand our patients place a great deal of trust in our caregivers with every visit they make to Renown medical practices and our hospitals. This recognition from Healthgrades confirms patients are well-served by Renown providers. I am pleased to join our community in honoring Renown Regional Medical Center as one of the best hospitals in the nation.”  “As the only accredited trauma center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, we receive and care for patients with varying health needs from over 100,000 square miles. Our communities depend on Renown Regional Medical Center for skilled and compassionate care,” said Erik Olson, MHA, Chief Executive Officer of Renown Regional Medical Center. We are proud of our talented healthcare teams who are committed to producing the best possible health outcomes for our patients, so they can get back to living their best lives.” “Whether a patient is in need of a procedure to help treat a stroke, heart attack, sepsis or pneumonia, they should feel confident in the quality care they experience at Renown,” said Paul Sierzenski, MD, MSHQS, CPE, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Acute Services. “Having a specialty-trained team of physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, care managers, physical and occupational therapists around the clock means, regardless of the illness or injury, a patient will be treated with the highest degree of care right away, significantly improving their health outcomes.” “Considering the many challenges and obstacles presented to our hospital during the last year, recognizing our dedicated healthcare teams has never been more important,” said Amy McCombs, MSN, RN, CCRN, CNML, Vice President of Quality, Acute Services, at Renown. “I applaud our caregivers’ unwavering commitment to the highest level of care and safety for our patients, and their ability to save lives amidst adversity.” Renown is recognized by several national organizations for quality and excellence, including U.S. News & World Report, American Stroke Association, Joint Commission, American College of Surgeons and the American College of Radiology. Renown’s Roseview, Sierra and Cardiac Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are the only ICUs in Nevada to receive the Beacon Award of Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. Renown is currently recruiting outstanding employees at careers.renown.org.        About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, local not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include; Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.   About Healthgrades Healthgrades is dedicated to empowering stronger and more meaningful connections between patients and their healthcare providers. At Healthgrades, we help millions of consumers each month find and schedule appointments with their provider of choice. With our scheduling solutions and advanced analytics applications, we help our health system and life sciences clients cultivate new patient relationships, improve patient access, and build customer loyalty. At Healthgrades, better health gets a head start.

Read More About Renown Regional Medical Center Recognized As One of America's Best Hospitals

Renown Health just announced a new, digital tool designed to keep our community safe and healthy. Symptom Checker, which launched today, is a user-friendly, web-based platform that assesses patients’ symptoms and seamlessly directs them to the appropriate level of care within the Renown network. Symptom Checker can be accessed 24/7 by visiting Renown Symptom Checker. From there, a patient can identify the area of the body responsible for their discomfort, and specify their symptoms. Upon entering their symptoms, patients receive a detailed health summary and care guide, which helps them determine the most appropriate action to take. Patients are able to schedule a visit at a Renown location directly through the Symptom Checker portal. Patients experiencing a medical emergency should not use Symptom Checker and instead call 911. “Thanks to Symptom Checker, our patients will have around-the-clock support at their fingertips to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “We understand that determining the right level of care for you or your loved ones may bring about some uncertainty, which is why we are proud to continuously offer new and innovative technologies that make it easier for our community members to live healthier lives.” “As we continue experiencing cases of COVID-19 in Washoe County, many individuals with COVID are unsure when they should seek medical care, as well as the appropriate location to receive care,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, Chief Quality and Nursing Officer, Health Services. “With Symptom Checker, people can easily input their symptoms, and include the symptom severity, to be directed to the best level of care for their individual health needs—making it an extremely valuable tool as we fight to keep our community safe and healthy amidst this pandemic.” Symptom Checker is free to use and does not require users to be Renown patients. In addition to nearly 200 children and adult symptom care guides, the platform also features 55 first-aid topics, 147 parenting advice topics, and 25 over-the-counter drug dosage tables for children and adults. The Symptom Checker content is written by medical doctors, Barton Schmitt and David Thompson, who are nursing triage experts; and symptom care guides stem from clinical protocols used by doctors and nurses worldwide. Evidence behind the Symptom Checker can be accessed here. For more information, or to use Symptom Checker, please visit Renown Symptom Checker.     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.

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Debra Adornetto-Garcia, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, AOCN, joins as chief nursing officer, acute services to serve future generations and improve the health and well-being of Nevadans. Renown Health is excited to announce Debra Adornetto-Garcia, DNP, RN, is joining Renown Health as its chief nursing officer (CNO) for acute hospital services. In her role as CNO, acute services, Dr. Adornetto-Garcia will lead acute care hospital nursing and collaborate with leadership in designing patient care and services that ensure excellent care for patients and families.  “We are pleased to welcome such an experienced and talented leader like Dr. Debra Adornetto-Garcia to our organization and to northern Nevada,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, president and CEO, Renown Health. “As chief nursing officer for acute services, Debra will continue to foster a culture of caring and excellence, while ensuring the highest level of nursing practice and experience for our registered nurses and hospital patients.  Says Dawn D. Ahner, DSc, FACHE, chief operating officer, acute services, “Debra is a dynamic, collaborative, innovative senior executive with academic, community, ambulatory and acute hospital experience. Dr. Adornetto-Garcia has been an influential change agent in leading teams to create innovative delivery models and elevate nursing practice through shared accountability.”  Debra comes to Renown from CHRISTUS Health in Corpus Christi, Texas where she has served as their CNO. She has also held senior nursing roles with Banner Health & Banner MD Anderson in Ariz., The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver. She began her career as an oncology nurse with experience in radiation, chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. “I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve the nursing community and patients of Renown Health in Nevada,” said Dr. Adornetto-Garcia. “How exciting to be able to deliver the high-quality, compassionate patient care Renown is known for, and to help serve and lead in the hospital nursing profession.” Debra has a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, a Master of Adult Health Nursing (Clinical Nurse Specialist/Oncology specialty) and a BSN from Northern Illinois University.  Former chief nursing officer for acute hospital services, Dr. Jennifer Richards, retired from Renown after 21 years of nursing service. Renown Health hospitals include Renown Regional Medical Center, Renown South Meadows Medical Center, Renown Children’s Hospital and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital rankings, Renown South Meadows Medical Center was listed #1 in the State of Nevada (tied with Carson Tahoe Medical Center). Renown Regional Medical Center was named #2 Best Hospital in Nevada.  Renown has also earned the highest award from American Association of Critical Care Nurses, the Beacon Award for Excellence for its Intensive Care Units (ICUs) based on performance and patient outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. Renown has the only intensive care units awarded this distinction in Nevada. 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.

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