Issuu

Sip Love Learn rn

Buy

Join a Whiskey Experience perience at

Spirits & Spice!

Whether you know nothing about whiskey, know a little something and want to know more, or just want to impress your friends with interesting facts, the Spirits & Spice Whiskey Experience is the place to be. Your experience will include small samples of whiskey from around the world and expert knowledge from our enthusiastic team members.

*Must be at least 21 2 years old to attend. Spirits & Spice Las Vegas Located at the Grand Canal Shoppes in The Venetian Resort (702) 414-4525

Learn more about us at www.SpiritsandSpice.com

Custom Spice Blends , Oils, Vinegars and High Quality Spirits.

Publisher of Branded Content and Special Publications EMMA WOL FF (emma.wolff@gmgvegas .com)

EDITORIAL + ART Special Publications Editor SI ER RA SMART Managing Editor/News DAVE MONDT Sta ff Writers GRACE DA R OCHA, HI L LARY DAVI S,

ARE YOU READY TO BUILD YOUR OWN PRACTICE? WE MAKE THE PROCESS EASY Building a medical office is complex. You need a construction partner that you can trust who understands the unique needs of healthcare environments.

CASEY HAR R I SON, KATI E ANN MCCARVER , EMMA BR O C ATO Copy Ed i tor ABRAHAM KOBY LANSKI Photo Coord inator BR I AN RAMOS Sta ff Photog ra p hers CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS, STEVE MARCUS, WADE VANDERVORT

ADVERTISING Pub li s her of Di g ita l Med i a KATIE HORTON Senior Ad verti s i ng Ma na g er MIKE MALL, ADAIR NOWACKI, SU E SRAN

At Nigro Construction, our team collaborates with you every step of the way to create spaces that enhance the patient experience, streamline workflow, and comply with medical regulations.

Account Exec utives MARY CHAR I SSE DI MAI N,

You can rest easy knowing that your investment goes where it matters most, so you can focus on patient care and supporting your medical team.

Web Content Sp ec ia l ist CLAYT KEEFER

LAU R EN J OHNSON, ANNA ZY MANEK S a l es Exec uti ve Ass ista nts APR I L MARTI NEZ

PRODUCTION Vi ce Pres id ent of Ma nufa cturi ng MAR I A BLONDEAUX

WE SPECIALIZE IN: Surgery Center Modern Clinic Design Cath Labs State Health Approval Diagnostic Facilities Process Remodels

Prod ucti on Director PAU L HU NTSBER RY Prod ucti on Ma na g er BLU E U Y EDA Ass oc i ate Ma rketing Art Director BR OOKE EVER SON Ma rketi ng Gra p hic Des ig ner CARY L LOU PAAYAS Pub li c ation Coord inator DENI SE ARANCI BI A Tra ffic Coord i nator AL EX HAASE Prod ucti on Artist MAR I SSA MAHERAS

DISTRIBUTION Route Ad m inistrator KATHY STR EALU Ful fi ll m ent O p erations Coord i nator CASANDRA PI ER C E Di stri b uti on Relations Lia i s on J I DAN SHADOWEN

MARKETING AND EVENTS Events Di rector SAMANTHA PETSCH Events Ma na g er HANNAH ANTER Events Coord inator AL EXANDRA SU NG A

GREENSPUN MEDIA GROUP CEO, Pub li s her & Ed itor BR I AN GR EENSPU N

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO GET STARTED!

Chief O p erating O ffi cer R OBERT CAU THOR N Ma na g ing Ed itor RAY BR EWER

Cory Frank 702-247-1920 cory@nigroconstruction.com www.nigroconstruction.com

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

V EGAS INC 2275 COR PORATE CI R CL E, SU I TE 300 HENDER SON, NEVADA 89074 | 702. 990. 2550

From the editor

echnology has evolved significantly in the past 55 years. In 1969, men walked on the moon for the first time as part of the Apollo 11 mission. The Apollo Guidance Computer aboard the space shuttle was approximately 70 pounds and had four kilobytes of random-access memory. For comparison, Apple’s new iPhone 15 Pro has 8 gigabytes of RAM, which is several million times more, and only weighs less than half a pound. Technology in health care is also evolving. Innovation is a powerful and beautiful thing, and the capable and curious minds behind innovation are helping prevent and treat illness, predict health trends and outcomes, and secure patient privacy. With the recent, mainstream emergence of mRNA vaccines and telemedicine, members of the community have seen innovative health care develop before their eyes. From large-scale changes, such as less invasive robotic surgery, to small-scale administrative adjustments, technology is aiding medical practice and patient experience. A major technological advancement that is rapidly influencing the health care industry is artificial intelligence. In this issue, local tech and medical experts weigh in on some of the benefits and dangers posed by AI and how facilities and programs in Southern Nevada are taking advantage of this tool. Dr. Vishisht Mehta at Comprehensive Cancer Centers uses AI in his field of pulmonology to help detect cancerous nodules, and Cameron Call at Network Security Associates is leveraging AI to build adaptive cybersecurity to keep patient information safe. Beyond AI, other innovations are paving the way for faster and less painful healing. UMC shares a success story about the use of ReCell therapy at its

Lions Burn Center. This therapy processes a patient’s skin cells to generate a spray of personalized cells that can largely replace skin grafts, leading to faster healing and less noticeable scarring. Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics uses the Iovera procedure to treat knee pain. This freezing technology numbs nerves without any permanent damage, reducing or even eliminating pain for individuals suffering from knee pain before, after, or while awaiting eligibility for knee replacement surgery without prescribing painkillers. Innovation is fueled by education, and we’ve included two stories about educational programs in the valley that are training the future health care professionals of Southern Nevada. Amplus Academy, a K-12 charter school, has partnered with MountainView Hospital to create an EMT training program, preparing students to pass national exams and graduate with an EMT license. We also share a story about stateof-the-art technology being used at the Touro University simulation center. Touro acquired a manikin that can be used to simulate real-life birthing scenarios, allowing students to practice with realistic scenarios without any risk to actual patients. I hope the examples of education and innovation displayed in this publication inspire you as they have inspired me. With the help of so many dedicated members of the health care industry, Southern Nevadans can trust that their health is in good hands. Wishing you health and happiness,

Sierra Smart Special Publications Editor sierra.smart@gmgvegas.com

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Medical News GOODWILL OF SOUTHERN NEVADA EDUCATING A NEW GENERATION OF HEALTH CARE In collaboration with NV HOPE and NV Careers, Goodwill offers free training and certification to underserved populations, leading to rewarding careers in the health care industry. Goodwill’s train-to-hire program also helps address the local provider shortage. The certified nursing assistant program features an overview of health care careers, exposure to local leaders and hiring professionals, and experience in the simulation lab at UNLV. After completing a formal six-week CNA training and passing the licensing exam, participants are prepared for employment. Train-tohire programs also include a 90-day medical assistant program.

INSTITUTE CELEBRATES MAJOR MILESTONE FOR IN-STATE CARE MountainView Hospital and Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, celebrated its 50th blood and marrow transplant case. The milestone transplant comes two years after the program’s inception. Patients with blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma may be recommended by their physician to undergo a blood and marrow transplant, sometimes called a stem cell transplant or bone marrow transplant. Before the new service opened at MountainView, all patients had to leave Nevada to seek these services. Patients now have the option to receive this specialized care close to home.

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Inside this issue

12 20 30

FEBRUARY 2024

Exploring the nuances of organ donation and transplant procedures Artificial intelligence paves the way for new health care frontier Burn care technology offers life-changing outcomes

36 42 44

Mountainview Hospital partners with high school to train young EMTs Delivering babies goes high tech at Touro University Nevada Intermountain Health shares community assessment findings

SELF-SCREEN. GET CHECKED. PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST CANCER.

“The greatest honor of being the protector of the ice, is the opportunity to serve as a protector in the community. By joining forces with Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the crusade against cancer, we can protect the health of our community. Through cancer awareness, early detection, advanced treatments, and groundbreaking research – we’re fighting on all fronts for a future without cancer. Learn to self-screen. Get checked. Protect yourself.”

cccnevada.com • 702.952.3350

PROUD PARTNER OF THE

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS

Virtual reality provides a new way to save children’s vision BY NAOMIE WARNER, DO

T Naomie Warner, DO, is a Pediatric Ophthalmologist for Nevada Eye Physicians

he most common cause of vision loss in children can now be addressed more efficiently through the power of virtual reality. Luminopia is the first treatment of its kind to receive FDA approval for prescription use to combat lazy eye or Amblyopia in children. At Nevada Eye Physicians, we are proud to be one of the only doctors prescribing this treatment statewide. Amblyopia, or lazy eye, results from abnormal visual development during childhood and conditions such as strabismus, refractive errors, or an untreated droopy eyelid. It can be detected by an ophthalmologist who conducts a thorough medical exam, testing both eyes for discrepancies in vision between them. For decades, wearing a patch and/or blurring (atropine) drops have been the go-to remedies for lazy eyes which, in extreme cases, can result in permanent vision loss if left untreated. These options are often prescribed in addition to corrective glasses and work by limiting the use of the stronger eye, forcing children to use and strengthen their weaker eye. Typically, it can take weeks to months of consistent treatment to see positive results. Once there is significant change in the weaker eye, a doctor may advise patients to continue wearing the patch part-time for a couple years. The condition is especially difficult to ad-

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

dress because treatment is not often easy for children to adhere to. Children don’t enjoy wearing corrective patches for multiple hours a day, and Atropine drops can have uncomfortable side effects, which include light sensitivity. Only 50% of children comply with therapy, but it’s imperative that a child be treated as early as possible and before turning 8 to avoid permanent vision loss. In the most extreme cases, surgery can be an option. Even with treatment, some children are left with a significant vision impairment. However, technology-based treatments may offer a solution that’s more palatable to children and parents. Luminopia is a nonsurgical procedure prescribed for one hour, six days a week. Children wear a virtual reality headset equipped with content from their normal children’s television channels and dichoptic technology. The headset shows a clear view of the show to the weaker eye and a less clear view to the stronger eye, resulting in the use of both eyes to fully view the show. This builds strength in the weaker or “lazy” eye and makes treatment easier for children to adhere to. A small clinical trial of children 4 and older found that those treated with Luminopia and corrective glasses for 12 weeks gained more improvements in vision than children who only wore corrective glasses. Almost 90% of the children continued using Luminopia throughout the study, suggesting they enjoyed it enough to stick with it rather than pursue other treatments, such as eye drops or patches.

A small clinical trial of children 4 and older found that those treated with Luminopia and corrective glasses for 12 weeks gained more improvements in vision than children who only wore corrective glasses.

FEBRUARY 2024

Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV adds cadaver lab BY PAUL HARASIM

through an anatomical structure, in essence, dissecting it. one of the medical students on hand As impressive as the high-tech approach to for the ceremony inside the Kirk learning anatomy and dissection can be, dean Kerkorian School of Medicine’s Marc J. Kahn said learning anatomy with canew cadaver lab knew the names of davers “gives students the ability to truly feel the individuals being honored. Two died from the texture of tissues and organs.” respiratory ailments and two died from cardio“Virtual cadavers, plastinated cadavers, and vascular disease between the ages of 72 and 94. models are very helpful for learning, but nothThe students also didn’t know what those indiing truly compares to seeing the anatomy and its viduals had accomplished during organization within a real human their lifetimes. body.” McCloskey said. “It allows What they did know is that the one to move structures around in two men and two women hoped, order to make better connections by donating their bodies to mediwith the integration of the organ cal education, that they could help systems within the body…and with the complex training of a new also provides students with betgeneration of physicians. ter opportunities to become more The observance by the medical familiar with using the various school ushered in a new human cadissection instruments includdaver lab to complement its virtuing scalpels, probes, scissors, and al anatomy instruction, making it forceps.” possible “to move to a more hybrid Because the medical school is style in presenting the anatomy still in the process of creating its curriculum,” said Owen McClosown anatomical willed-body dokey, human anatomy lab and safenation program, McCloskey proty manager. cured four cadavers from the UniUntil recently, Kirk Kerkorian versity of Nevada, Reno, School of medical students learned anatoMedicine’s donation program. my using virtual anatomy tables, McCloskey says he feels sure interactive touch screens loaded that the people of Southern Newith a library of clinical images, vada will participate in a body do—Owen McCloskey, such as pathology slides, CT scans, nation program that prizes anohuman anatomy lab and safety manager X-rays, MRIs, and other diagnosnymity once the medical school’s tic tools at a physician’s disposal. planned program is certified. Bodies are viewed in a variety of perspectives, “Since I started here last summer, I’ve reable to show an organ while rotating it in three ceived information from 10 individuals that dimensions. A student can view successive horwould sincerely like to donate their bodies to izontal sections of the body cavity and its interour medical program and continue helping nal structures by dragging three fingers down with the education of future doctors,” McClothe table. Similarly, students can virtually slice skey said.

“Nothing truly compares to seeing the anatomy and its organization within a real human body. It allows one to move structures around in order to make better connections with the integration of the organ systems within the body.”

FEBRUARY 2024

Paul Harasim is associate director for the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV’s Marketing and Communications Department

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Increased awareness improves care for individuals with MS BY CARRIE M. HERSH, DO, MSC, FAAN

Carrie M. Hersh, DO, MSc, FAAN is a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health

n estimated 4,000 Nevadans are living with multiple sclerosis, a complex autoimmune disease that causes overactive immune cells to mistakenly attack healthy nerve cells. Blurry vision, pins and needles tingling, dizziness, weakness, walking instability, bladder and bowel dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and fatigue are among the symptoms people with MS can experience. And even these vary over time. Despite being the leading cause of nontraumatic disability in young adults, MS can be difficult to diagnose because it affects everyone differently. Yet there’s a real need for an individual experiencing these assorted, troubling symptoms to get answers. Research shows even a five-year delay from diagnosis to treatment has a significant negative effect on well-being. One of the greatest barriers to seeking care is awareness. Nevada has taken an important step toward changing that by designating the third week of March as the state’s inaugural Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week. Spurred in part by attention generated at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health’s 2023 Power of Love gala, this local effort shines much-needed focus on the critical importance of an early diagnosis and on the resources available in our community. Research suggests 7%-20% of MS cases are misdiagnosed, creating a missed opportunity for appropriate treatment. Similarly, delayed diagnosis of MS affects the individual’s overall prognosis by delaying treatments that can prevent disability. There is no single test to diagnose MS, rather, there’s a combination of neurological presentation, exams, imaging, and more that lead to an accurate diagnosis. By seeing an MS specialist, such as those at the Mellen Program for Multiple Sclerosis at the Lou Ruvo Center for

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

Brain Health, when there is a suspicion of MS, individuals can obtain an accurate diagnosis and start appropriate therapy sooner. Conveniently, nonpharmacological supportive therapies spanning physical, occupational and speech, health and wellness visits, as well as social work are all coordinated under the same roof. An early MS diagnosis gives individuals time to make lifestyle modifications that may affect their disease course. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet, exercising, good sleep, reducing stress, and not smoking can all be beneficial. Individuals can also participate in health and wellness visits at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health to learn how lifestyle strategies can improve well-being. In the past decade, more than 20 disease-modifying therapies have been approved to slow the progression of MS. While this explosion of treatment options has been a positive step to reducing disability, it has also presented challenging choices for physicians to match an individual with the optimal medication. This is why clinician-scientists continue to study the medications, years after Food and Drug Administration approval, so they can better understand the effectiveness, safety, and patient experience associated with different treatment strategies. Ongoing research allows us to leverage real-world outcomes, inform decision-making, and continually update standards of care. While there is no cure for the disease, as a community we have the opportunity to increase quality of life for Nevadans with MS by reducing disability and disease progression through early intervention. Go to clevelandclinic.org/NevadaMShcq to learn more. To make an appointment at Southern Nevada’s only National Multiple Sclerosis Society partner in care, call 702-483-6000.

New Purchases or Refinances!

Purchase or refinance the equipment you need with a loan that’s best for you, from a credit union you trust!

CCCU’s Medical Equipment Refinancing Loans • Financing Terms from 48 – 84 months competitive loan rates • Low loan fees and no application fees!*

To Get Started, You Will Need

• A CCCU savings and checking account • A guarantee of the principal or principals • And an automatic payment from a CCCU checking account to get the best rate. To start the application or get further information for your CCCU Medical Equipment Refinance Loan, call Chris Schlafman at (702) 939-3214 or email schlaffmanc@ccculv.com. *UCC filing fee against equipment being financed. Loans will carry a ½ point fee along with a $1,000 loan documentation fee and any third-party fees

Understanding organ donations and transplants

Corneas

Donate Life America reports there are more than 100,000 individuals on organ transplant lists in the United States, and thousands die each year waiting for a transplant. There are many misconceptions about organ donations, preventing some individuals from registering as donors. We set out to answer some of the questions surrounding donations with the hope of increasing lifesaving matches.

Types of donations

Heart

There are two categories of organ donation: deceased donation and living donation. Deceased donation occurs only after the donating person has died, whereas living donation occurs while the donating person is alive.

Deceased donations Living donations

Tissue

Pancreas Complete organ, if deceased A portion, if living

100,000+ 6,000 the number of individuals in the U.S. waiting for a transplant

Blood Stem cells

the number of individuals who died while waiting on transplant lists in 2021

Bone Marrow Hands

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

Face

HOW TO REGISTER AS AN ORGAN DONOR

Most common donations Kidney and liver donations make up 96% of the transplant lists and can be donated while alive. Most healthy adults can donate one of their two kidneys without ongoing complications.

Nearly 170 million people are registered donors, but only three in 1,000 dies in a manner that allows for organ donation (Fatal stroke, heart attack and head injury are the most common cause of death for deceased donors). This is part of the reason why registering as an organ donor is important: Only 0.3% of registered donors can donate.

This organ grows back Because the liver can successfully regenerate, most adults can donate a piece of it. In such instances, both parts of the liver—donor and recipient—generally grow back to full size or nearly full size.

Lungs Two, if deceased One, if living

the average number of individuals who die each day waiting for a transplant.

Liver Complete organ, if deceased A portion, if living

Kidneys

Every minutes, another person is added to the transplant list.

Two, if deceased One, if living

Intestines Complete, if deceased A portion, if living

In 2022, the United States reached a historic milestone in achieving one million transplants, more than any country in the world.

Sources: Donate Life America, Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network, Health Resources & Services Administration, Donor Alliance, Mayo Clinic, U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration, United Network for Organ Sharing, University of California Davis FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Organs by need

(As of 2023)

Certain transplant procedures are more common than others. Kidney donations, both deceased and living, are common. Vascularized composite allografts, such as hand and face donation, include multiple structures—skin, bone, muscles and nerves— and are rare.

Organ donation timeline Depending on the patient and circumstances, these are the general steps of donation following a registered donor’s death.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 14

Brain death is declared: After all lifesaving measures have been exhausted, and brain death is declared, the donor’s body may be supported temporarily by artificial means, such as a ventilator. Evaluation: Specialty trained physicians from the Organ Procurement Organization will go to the hospital and evaluate the donor’s body to determine if it’s medically suitable for organ donation. Authorization: After the family is alerted of the donor’s death and the OPO representative has confirmed that they can be a donor, the representative will confer with the family and provide information about donation. Placement: Medical information about the donor is entered into the United Network for Organ Sharing national database to begin the organ allocation process. They will work to find the best matches for the available organs. Organ recovery: Surgery is performed on the donor, and the organs are sent to the recipient transplant hospitals immediately. Funeral: Following the donation surgery, the body is taken to the funeral home. Funeral homes typically work with the family and the OPO to ensure that all wishes are honored. An open casket funeral is possible for organ donors. Follow-up: The OPO will follow up with the family to tell them which organs were donated and provide further support to donor families, including bereavement support and counseling.

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Other: 2,255 Other includes kidney/ pancreas and allograft transplants such as face, hands, and abdominal wall.

FEBRUARY 2024

Organs from one body can save up to eight lives.

Understanding organ donations and transplants HOW TO REGISTER AS AN ORGAN DONOR

Pancreas: 828 Kidney: 88,551

Time frame between removal and transplant: 12-18 hours

Time frame between removal and transplant: 24-36 hours

Liver: 10,088

Lung: 1,001

Time frame between removal and transplant: 8-12 hours

Time frame between removal and transplant: 4-6 hours

Heart: 3,336

Time frame between removal and transplant: 4-6 hours

The tissue in one body can heal 75 people. Tissue donation includes bones, tendons, cartilage, connective tissue, skin, corneas, sclera, heart valves and heart vessels. These donations may be transplanted or used in the healing of existing tissue in the recipient(s).

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

How matches are made Matches are made based on blood type, body size, how sick the recipient is, donor distance, tissue type, and time on waiting list. Other factors that do not preclude matches are social status, income level, celebrity status, gender, gender expression and sexual orientation. The matching process depends on many factors, including the organ in question. When looking at kidney matches, for example, three medical compatibility conditions need to be met: 1. Blood type: The donor and transplant recipient must have compatible blood types, following the same criteria necessary for blood transfusions. For instance, blood type O is a universal donor that can give to anyone—O+ can give to anyone with a positive blood type (representing 80% of the population) and O- can give to anyone, positive or negative. Alternately, the AB blood type is considered a universal recipient because they can receive blood from anyone. 2. Crossmatch: Crossmatch testing involves taking blood from both donor and recipient and mixing them together to see if the recipient cells attack the donor cells. This tests if the recipient has antibodies against the donor cells and indicates whether the recipient’s body will accept the donation. 3. HLA testing (also known as tissue testing): HLA stands for human leukocyte antigen. Out of more than 100 different antigens identified, there are six that are critical in organ transplantation. Because we inherit three of these antigens from each parent, a six-antigen match is rare between people who aren’t identical twins or siblings. However, in kidney transplantation, successful matches can be made without matching antigens if the recipient doesn’t have strong antibodies against a donor’s HLA.

Blood type compatibilities

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

Understanding organ donations and transplants HOW TO REGISTER AS AN ORGAN DONOR

OTHER WAYS TO DONATE

One of the easiest ways to contribute is by donating blood, platelets and plasma. Learn more at redcrossblood.org. There is also a need for bone marrow or umbilical cord blood, both of which help those suffering from blood cancers or other diseases, such as sickle cell. Learn more at bloodstemcell.hrsa.gov/ donor-information.

Donations myths Doctors won’t work as hard to save my life if I’m an organ donor, and they may declare me dead prematurely. False. All patients, regardless of donor status, receive the same lifesaving measures, and typically the medical team won’t know if you’re a registered organ donor until after death. Once deceased, more rigorous testing is done on registered donors to ensure they’re deceased. Organ donation is against my religion. Often false. Most major faiths, including Catholicism, Islam, Buddhism, most branches of Judaism and most Protestant faiths accept organ donation. If you’re unsure about your specific faith or sect, ask a member of your clergy. I’m too old and/or unhealthy to donate. There is no age cutoff for donating and very few medical conditions preclude you from successfully donating. Following death, the health care team will evaluate and decide.

Transplant organizations in Nevada In Nevada, there is only one active Organ Procurement Organization (OPO), Nevada Donor Network, and one transplant center (TXC), UMC Center for Transplantation. UMC offers kidney and pancreas transplant programs. In contrast, Arizona has one OPO and five TXCs. Utah has one OPO and three TXCs. California has four OPOs and 20 TXCs.

<1%

American Indian/ Alaska Native 897

Donor Diversity When matching donors and recipients, shared ethnic or racial background is not a requirement—matches between all people, regardless of ethnicity, are very common. However, a diverse donor list may give underrepresented populations a better chance at finding a donor match. Immune system markers used to determine matches are genetic, so those with rare markers are more likely to match with someone from a similar ethnic background.

<1%

Pacific Islander 603

<1%

Asian 8,726

American Indian/ Alaska Native 205

<1%

Multiracial 911

<1%

Pacific Islander 115

<1%

Asian 1,685

Multiracial 211

18%

21.8%

39.6%

Hispanic/ Latino 22,623

White 41,141

27.8% Black 28,899

Patients on the waiting list by ethnicity (2023) FEBRUARY 2024

Hispanic/ Latino: 4,996

50%

White 13,701

23%

Black 6,256

Transplants performed by recipient ethnicity (2023) H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Heart and lung care that’s with you for every beat. At Dignity Health Medical Group Nevada, our cardiovascular and thoracic experts are here to help you keep pace with your plans. Our team of board-certified surgeons offer comprehensive diagnosis and advanced surgical procedures for heart, vascular, and lung health. So if you have concerns and need specialized treatment, schedule an appointment today. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/NVCVT.

Michael Wood, MD, FACS Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon

Neel V. Dhudshia, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon

Chan Jerome “CJ” Park, MD, PhD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon

Bruce M. Toporoff, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon

Dignity Health Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery 7190 S. Cimarron Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89113 (702) 675-3240 10001 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. 201 Henderson, NV 89052 (702) 616-5700

“The power of AI is its ability to work at scale across entire populations a n d h e a l t h s y s t e m s w i t h i n m i n u t e s , i n a h i g h l y p e r s o n a l i z e d w a y, t o f i n d d i s e a s e or other health conditions earlier and connect patients to physicians who can provide the appropriate care.” —David Hannes, CEO of Imbio, an organization that runs AI software in the background on system-wide patient imaging

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

HOW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS ARE CHANGING THE MEDICAL LANDSCAPE IN LAS VEGAS he utilization of artificial intelligence in health care is creating new possibilities for patient care, security, and disease identification. Some AI software advancements can use pattern recognition to detect anomalies faster and more accurately than human health care providers. According to Kathleen Walch at AI Focused Research, “artificial intelligence is able to pay attention to a lot more information at one time as opposed to the limited amount of data that humans can process and analyze.” This heightened detection—be it for cancer cells or security breaches—can improve prognoses and allow more time for humans to do the work that only humans can. According to a 2022 study by Pew Research Center, 60% of U.S. adults would feel uncomfortable if their health care provider were to rely on AI

to diagnose disease and recommend treatments. Those surveyed felt AI reliance could damage relationships between patients and providers. Alternately, 40% of individuals surveyed believe that AI would reduce the number of mistakes made by health care providers. They may be correct. AI has the benefit of an algorithm, enabling some programs to identify incongruent details that may otherwise be overlooked. Providers can work hand-in-hand with AI to evaluate risks and determine the best course of action for patients. AI support becomes ever more important during health care provider shortages. For this story, medical and tech professionals at the forefront of AI advancements in Nevada weigh in on this new frontier. Their expertise is fueling research and providing additional security in local patient care.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

BY CAMERON CALL he health care industry is often at the forefront of technological advancements. As health care systems increasingly rely on digital platforms for storing sensitive patient data and maintaining medical records, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. The integration of artificial intelligence emerges as a powerful solution to address the escalating threats to patient data and medical records, providing real-time threat detection, adaptive cybersecurity measures, and an intelligent approach to incident response.

pensive issues. This real-time threat detection is essential in a health care environment where the stakes are high, and timely intervention can prevent significant data breaches.

ADAPTIVE CYBERSECURITY

One of the key strengths of AI lies in its ability to adapt and evolve. Machine learning algorithms, a subset of AI, allow systems to learn from previous incidents. In the context of health care cybersecurity, this translates into adaptive cybersecurity measures. As AI systems encounter and analyze new threats, they assimilate this information to enhance their ability to prevent future attacks. Traditional static security measures REAL-TIME THREAT DETECTION can be insufficient in addressing the One of the primary challenges in ever-changing tactics of cybercriminals. health care cybersecurity is the need for Through machine learning, health care fast and accurate threat detection. Traorganizations can stay ahead and adjust ditional methods can fall short against their cybersecurity protocols to countCameron Call, CISSP, sophisticated cyber threats. er emerging threats effectively. The CISM, MCSA, MBA is the AI introduces a new approach by health care industry, with its vast attack Chief Technology Officer deploying advanced algorithms for surface and numerous attack vectors, at Network Security real-time threat detection, anomaly rec- Associates benefits significantly from adaptive ognition and predictive analysis. cybersecurity. With the ability to process vast amounts of data at CHALLENGES AND CONSIDERATIONS unprecedented speeds, AI systems excel at discerning While the integration of AI into health care cypatterns and anomalies that may go unnoticed by the bersecurity offers many benefits, it’s not without its human eye. challenges. Ethical considerations, adherence to data AI systems can identify patterns indicative of privacy regulations, and continuous training are critipotential security breaches, allowing for a proactive cal aspects that demand careful attention. response before they escalate into significant and ex-

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

integration strategy. Training programs should encompass not only the technical aspects of AI but also ethical considerations, ensuring a holistic understanding of the technology.

THE FUTURE LANDSCAPE

Ethical concerns arise regarding the responsible use of AI in health care. Decisions made by AI systems, especially in critical areas like patient care, must align with ethical standards and human values. Transparency in the decision-making process of AI algorithms is essential to build trust among health care professionals and patients. Adherence to data privacy regulations is another significant challenge. Health care organizations must navigate a complex landscape of regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Ensuring that AI systems comply with these regulations is imperative to maintain the confidentiality of patient information and prevent legal ramifications and hefty fines. Continuous training and skill development are also important components of a successful AI

The fusion of AI and cybersecurity emerges as a pivotal strategy to fortify cybersecurity in modern health care systems. Real-time threat detection and adaptive cybersecurity measures offered by AI not only bolster defense mechanisms but also help health care organizations stay ahead against cyber threats. While challenges exist, they are not insurmountable. By addressing ethical concerns, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations, and prioritizing ongoing training, health care organizations can obtain the full benefits of AI in cybersecurity. The journey toward a secure health care future involves not only embracing technological advancements but doing so responsibly and ethically. In doing so, health care providers can build a resilient cybersecurity infrastructure that safeguards patient data and upholds the integrity of medical records.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

SILVERSUMMIT HEALTHPLAN’S ‘PROJECT GUARDIAN’ HARNESSES INNOVATIVE REMOTE HEALTH MONITORING CAPABILITIES BY STEVEN EVANS, MD

any abnormal values or fluctuations in blood pressure, weight, pulse, oxygen saturation and blood glucose iven the shortage of health care providers, levels, which could increase a patient’s risk of illness or it’s crucial to explore alternative methods hospitalization. for health monitoring, particularly for As of 2023, Project Guardian has monitored more patients with chronic health conditions than 2,600 patients, with an average of 380 vital alerts who require frequent doctor visits. For registered per month. The program has this reason, more health plans will turn assisted more than 40% of active parto technological advances. ticipants lose weight since starting the As an example, SilverSummit Healthprogram. Additionally, there has been a plan launched the Guardian Remote Panotable reduction in A1C levels among tient Monitoring Program, also known actively monitored diabetic patients, as “Project Guardian.” and a reduction in systolic and diastolic The program assists health care blood pressure readings in patients with providers in remotely monitoring and active hypertension. virtually treating patients with chronic Social determinants of health needs conditions, including hypertension, are also addressed by the monitoring atrial fibrillation, or diabetes. Without program. Services provided to particiclose medical monitoring, these indipants include assistance with housing, Steven Evans, MD, is viduals face a higher likelihood of being transportation, medication refills, careChief Medical officer at admitted to the hospital. giver issues, and food insecurity. SilverSummit Healthplan Through Project Guardian, SilverSince its inception in January 2023, Summit members receive Bluetooth-enProject Guardian has seen significant abled home monitoring devices, including a blood expansion throughout Clark County, with planned pressure cuff, an automatic pulse oximeter for meaexpansion to rural Nevada in 2024. Future program exsuring blood oxygen levels, a scale, and a blood glucose pansions are expected to include support for pregnant meter if required. All are monitored and accessible via patients with high blood pressure. a mobile application. For patients without a smartThis approach marks a considerable progression in phone, SilverSummit Healthplan provides a tablet at health care, particularly benefiting individuals who no charge. cannot make frequent doctor visits. Technology and Practitioners monitor patients’ vital signs, tracking artificial intelligence play a pivotal role in determining

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

appropriate care steps, and AI has made significant advancements in assisting health care providers. Without AI, an alert for a patient with typically low pressure might incorrectly indicate a problem. Previously, this nuanced understanding was unattainable. AI, in conjunction with health care providers and monitoring teams, can accurately determine what is optimal for each patient. As the program grows in Nevada, it will benefit those seeking health care and in need of medical feedback quickly. Technology can play a pivotal as many medical plans and providers focus on preventative health care as well. Whether with AI, wearable technology or other advancements,the medical landscape is changing quickly, and these tools can help identify health issues earlier and enable faster intervention. The health care industry needs to be open to the potential for new and innovative ways to care for patients. These ways will transform the health care environment in many phenomenal ways. For more information, visit silversummithealthplan.com.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

BY VISHISHT MEHTA, MD, FCCP

pulmonary landscape. AI use cases outside of lung nodule management are also ccording to the American Cancer Society, entering the marketplace. While some vendors focus on lung cancer is the second most common cansingular offerings, others function as orchestrators that cer in men and women in the United States; conduct a variety of functions within one organ system. the most common cancers are prostate canAn example would be Imbio, which runs AI software cer and breast cancer. in the background on system-wide patient imaging. By An estimated 238,000 Americans will be diagnosed screening the scans for preset conditions, it can help navwith lung cancer this year, with 127,000 projected igate patients to a hospital’s lung cancer screening team, deaths. Lung cancer is the leading cause interstitial lung disease team or chronic of cancer death in the United States, obstructive lung disease/emphysema team. representing one in five cancer deaths. As “The power of AI is its ability to work at with most cancers, early detection often scale across entire populations and health means better treatment outcomes. systems within minutes, in a highly personComprehensive Cancer Centers is alized way, to find disease or other health implementing AI-backed development conditions earlier and connect patients to with the Nodify blood test, which helps physicians who can provide the appropriestimate the risk of lung cancer when a ate care,” said David Hannes, CEO of Imbio. lung nodule is detected. Lung nodules are The National Library of Medicine abnormal growths that are common on and National Center for Biotechnology the lungs, but rarely cancerous—nearly Information released an in-depth report 50% of adults who get chest X-rays or CT titled, The value of artificial intelligence in Vishisht Mehta, MD, scans have nodules detected. the diagnosis of lung cancer: A systematic FCCP, is a pulmonologist MountainView Hospital utlizes the Eon at Comprehensive Canreview and meta-analysis. The report connodule management platform, which cluded that “integrating various data such cer Centers autonomously scans radiology reports as CT images, pathology, patient’s history, to identify and track nodules that might otherwise be clinical features, physician’s diagnosis, and patient folmissed by the human eye. And where the human eye low-up into the AI-assisted diagnosis system for all-round may or may not be able to tell if a lung nodule is canevaluation of patients is the future direction of AI developcerous, new AI technology can use those scan images to ment, which will not only improve the diagnostic accuracy determine the malignant potential of a nodule. of lung cancer and reduce physician’s workload but may also change the current medical model and promote the WHERE THE BROADER RESEARCH STANDS balanced development of medical resources.” Beyond these benefits and what is being seen locally Similarly, in June 2023, the Radiological Society of at Comprehensive Cancer Centers, more studies are North America published a report titled High Accuracy emerging surrounding the power of AI related to the AI Improves Lung Cancer Detection. Its study involved

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

30 readers, including 20 thoracic radiologists with five to 18 years of experience and 10 radiology residents with only two to three years of experience, assessing 120 chest X-rays without AI. Of the 120 chest radiographs assessed, 60 were from lung cancer patients (32 males) and 60 were controls (36 males). Compared to the first reading session, readers assisted by the high diagnostic accuracy AI at the second reading session showed higher per-lesion sensitivity and specificity. A final study for consideration comes from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in a January 2023 report titled MIT researchers develop an AI model that can detect future lung cancer risk. The report centers on Sybil, an AI tool for lung cancer risk assessment being developed by the MIT team. In looking at lung LDCT scans from the past six years taken from the Lung Cancer Screening Trial, Massachusetts General Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, the technology scored “strong” in its detections and predictions pertaining to lung nodules. With these studies and their successes, this is only the beginning. As new technology and treatments are boosted and/or generated by AI, we’ll continue to assess how they can boost lives in Southern Nevada for generations to come.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

SPECIALIZING IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE ROBOTIC JOINT SURGERY For Appointments: (702) 848-8708 | www.doclv.com www.kanghipandknee.com

PARMINDER S. KANG, M.D. Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon Hip Arthroscopy and Total Joint Replacement Fellowship Director

Do you need a skin exam or are you concerned about skin cancer? Request an appointment with our board-certified dermatologist today. 2904 W. HORIZON RIDGE PARKWAY, STE. 100 HENDERSON, NV 89052

INNOVATIVE TREATMENT GIVES HOPE TO BURN PATIENTS

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

BY SCOTT KERBS

hen meeting Astyn Levy, 12, you would never know she suffered life-threatening burns covering nearly 50% of her body two years UMC’s clinical experts gave Astyn’s family valuable ago. Thanks to the specialized care she hope during their greatest time of need. received at the UMC Lions Burn Care CenDr. Syed Saquib, Medical Director of the UMC ter, she has virtually no scars or other signs of the Lions Burn Care Center, met with Astyn’s parents second- and third-degree burns she sustained when and recommended an innovative procedure that a propane grill exploded in her backyard. would provide the best possible medical outcome “It sounded like an airplane crashed. It shook for the young girl. the entire town,” said Astyn’s mother, Britney Levy, explaining that the grill explosion sent flames 40 feet into the air, leaving Astyn with severe burns Patients similar to Astyn have across her face, hands, arms, and experienced impressive results from legs. “Her legs were burned so badly the RECELL system used by UMC’s that her shorts melted into her skin. burn surgeons. Designed to reduce I thought she was going to die.” the need for traditional skin grafts With Astyn’s life hanging in the among patients with burn wounds, balance, she was rushed via helicopthe system uses a sample of the ter to UMC, which has Nevada’s only patient’s own skin to generate sprayverified burn center. After stabilizing on skin cells that are personalized Astyn in the UMC Trauma Center to the individual patient. For many, and performing surgery to remove Scott Kerbs is UMC’s the burned tissue from her wounds, Public Relations Director this can significantly accelerate the healing process. “This has revolutionized the way we care for burn patients,” said Saquib. “We take a very small sample of the skin, generally less than the size of a business card. With this sample, we’re able to isolate the patient’s own epidermal cells, concentrate them and spray them onto the patient’s burn wounds.” UMC has provided patients with access to the RECELL system since 2020, and it’s now frequently used by the hospital’s burn surgeons to treat second- and third-degree burns. The system allows surgeons to close large second-degree burns much

SPRAY-ON SKIN CELLS

Continued on page 32

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Continued from page 32 more quickly while offering improved cosmetic results and a reduced need for painful dressing changes, Saquib said. When treating patients with more severe third-degree burns, this technology reduces the amount of healthy skin required to perform traditional skin grafts. “With these procedures, we don’t have to use as much of the patient’s own skin, which improves recovery times and decreases the risk of infection and other complications,” Saquib said. “This

technology helps our patients recover quicker and get back to their lives sooner.” Astyn is just one of many who have benefited from this cutting-edge therapy, and her recovery now serves as a valuable benchmark for UMC’s burn care experts. “At the UMC Lions Burn Care Center, we have a team of more than 100 burn-care professionals who dedicate their careers to caring for patients just like Astyn,” Saquib said. “We have a responsibility to provide our community with access to the latest clinical innovations to support the healing process.”

RAPID RECOVERY

Kerry Bubolz, President and CEO of the Vegas Golden Knights, Astyn Levy, and Deryk Engelland, former Knights defenseman, stand together during the “Player of the Day” event at City National Arena. (Courtesy photos)

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

Prior to receiving treatment with the RECELL system at UMC, Astyn was expected to face a long road to recovery. “We were initially looking at 38 to 42 weeks in the hospital,” Britney said, explaining that Astyn, then only 10 years old, remained in critical condition and required a ventilator to support her breathing. “We thought it would be weeks before she was even able to start walking again.” Aided by her strong will and the high level of care she received at UMC, Astyn walked out of the hospital on her own just 10 days after being transported to UMC via helicopter. After Saquib used the RECELL technology to treat Astyn’s wounds, she began to show rapid signs of recovery. As Astyn healed, she received round-the-clock care in the pediatric intensive care unit at UMC Children’s Hospital. Within a few days, she no longer needed breathing support from a ventilator. While still unable to speak at first, she began writing “thank you,” on a notepad to convey her gratitude to the doctors and nurses. On day seven, she started to walk, determined to regain her mobility. “She walked 30 laps around the pediatric intensive care unit that day,” Britney said. “It was nothing short of a miracle.” After leaving the hospital, Astyn required only a few outpatient visits with Saquib to track her progress. Within one month, her burns had healed almost completely. “She doesn’t have a scar on her body,” Britney said. “You wouldn’t know in a million years that she was burned.”

Dr. Syed Saquib, Medical Director of the UMC Lions Burn Care Center

PART OF THE UMC FAMILY Several months after leaving the hospital, Astyn had the unique opportunity to join UMC and the Vegas Golden Knights for a special “Player for a Day” event at City National Arena. She and many other former patients from UMC Children’s Hospital signed contracts with the NHL team before joining staff from the Vegas Golden Knights on the ice for skating lessons. In October, Astyn reunited with Saquib during the UMC Foundation’s Evening of Hope Gala, thanking the burn surgeon for making her recovery possible. “I ran up to him and gave him a hug,” Astyn said. “I was so happy to see him again because he saved my life and took such good care of me.” For Saquib, the reunion was equally moving. “After caring for her and seeing the extent of her injuries, it was such a rewarding experience to see her fully healed and enjoying the event with her family,” Saquib said. “Astyn will always be part of our UMC family. Her incredible recovery continues to inspire our team as we work together to provide our patients with the highest level of care and life-changing results.”

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

New, temporary therapy freezes nerves to knock out knee pain BY BRIAN CARR, MD

very year, hundreds of thousands of patients all over the country undergo knee replacement surgery. It can be extremely painful, with a long road to recovery. A relatively new and highly effective procedure available for patients with knee problems can relieve them of that pain, and it does not involve surgery.

Brian Carr, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon at Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics

What Causes Knee Pain?

Many patients suffer from severe knee pain for several reasons, including arthritis, injuries and prior surgeries. Most nonoperative treatments, such as steroid injections, gel injections, PRP and braces can result in only temporary and suboptimal relief. They can also be very expensive.

What Does Iovera Entail?

Iovera, a new, safe, and affordable treatment can be used for any adult patient with knee pain. The 15-minute office procedure involves “freezing” the nerves in the anterior, or front, part of the knee. This causes the nerves to stop sending pain signals for about three to four months. A provider will use anatomic landmarks on the patient to draw two treatment lines located across the thigh above the knee and along the inside of the leg just below the knee. Next, they will gently inject a local anesthetic underneath the skin along the treatment lines. The Iovera handheld device is used for several one-minute freezing treatment cycles along the treatment lines. During each treatment cycle, a small ball of ice forms beneath the skin, freezing the sensory nerves in the front of the knee. The patients will feel a temporary dull ache along the course of the 34

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

nerve during the treatment. After a few minutes, the dull ache subsides. The ball of ice is cold enough to temporarily stop the nerves from transmitting pain signals, but not cold enough to permanently damage the nerves. Once the treatment cycles are complete, the patient is bandaged and allowed to resume regular activity. Over time (usually about three to four months) the nerves slowly regenerate and the pain may return. This procedure can be safely repeated several times, helping patients control their knee pain until they are candidates for surgery. Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics most commonly uses this treatment to help with pain associated with knee replacement surgery. It’s so effective, we’re made it mandatory for our patients who are scheduled for surgery. As a result, most patients return home the same day as their surgery with minimal to no pain throughout their early recovery. Numerous patients have recovered from knee replacement surgery without the use of narcotic pain medications. This procedure can also be used for patients who are not interested in surgery or are not yet surgical candidates, such as those with significant medical problems or obesity.

The Las Vegas Iovera Center

The Las Vegas Iovera Center opened in February and is available to any adult patient with knee pain. While the Iovera procedure plays a big role in the high level of patient satisfaction, many additional factors—detailed preoperative joint replacement class, a personalized pain management plan, 24/7 access to a devoted team— leave patients feeling satisfied when they walk, oftentimes pain free, out the door.

MINIATURE ROBOTS ENHANCE KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERIES BY PARMINDER KANG, MD The main objective of a total knee replacement procedure is to provide the patient with a more functional and pain-free joint that restores quality of life. Every surgeon has an approach on how to prepare the bone for a patient’s knee implant. There are various philosophies on how to best align the implant components, some surgeons approach their knee replacement completely manually without technology assistance, while others leverage technology assistance, such as navigational tools, augmented reality tools, and robotics. Of all the technologies, robotics is noticeably gaining the most traction by orthopedic surgeons for total knee replacement. Centennial Hills Medical Center has decided to invest in the latest robotic technology for total knee replacement, the TMINI Miniature Robotic System. The TMINI Miniature Robotic System is a miniature, handheld wireless robotic system designed to enable accurate implant placement. The patient will get a CT scan, which allows the provider to pre-plan the patient’s knee-replacement procedure before they go under anesthesia. Following the CT-based three-dimensional surgical plan, the TMINI robotic handpiece automatically compensates for surgeon hand movement to locate bone pins along precisely defined planes during the procedure. Cutting guides are then connected to the bone pins for accurate bone resection. This system’s novel design is simplistic, effective, and efficient. There are a few things that differentiate this latest robotic technology from others. First, the surgeon can choose which implant they believe might be best for each individual patient’s needs because TMINI works with multiple implant designs via its proprietary databank of partner implants. All other robotic systems are only approved to work with one single implant company, which limits implant choice for physicians and their patients. Secondly, the TMINI design makes it easily adaptable to a surgeon’s individual workflow. By utilizing the most effective and efficient robotic total knee replacement, patients can experience less anesthesia time and achieve the pain free outcome they desire.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

MountainView Hospital partners with charter school to train young EMTs BY JENNIFER MCDONNELL

D Jennifer McDonnell is Director of Communications at MountainView Hospital

uring a recent school day, instructor Mark Calabrese quizzed students at Amplus Academy, a public charter school, about field assessments and what they should do. “If you go to a call and they are complaining about their toe, are you going to check their pupils?” he asked the class, in his ask and open answer style. The class debated back and forth before moving on to other triage topics. This class isn’t a typical health class. It’s the school’s EMT program, set up so that high school seniors who successfully complete the class and the national exam graduate as EMTs. The program grew out of the growing need for first responders in Las Vegas and across the nation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of EMTs and paramedics is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. There are about 18,100 openings for EMTs and paramedics each year, on average, according to Bureau data. Many communities around the country face EMT shortages, resulting, in some cases, longer response times by EMS.

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

To help achieve the goal of increasing the EMT pipeline for communities, as well as give students a pathway to careers post-high school graduation, MountainView Hospital partnered with Amplus Academy to provide an EMT program that enables participating students to graduate with an EMT license after passing national exams. The hospital’s successful Paramedic Institute provided a structure and framework to train students as EMTs as their first step into health care. The EMT program at Amplus is in its second year and has 18 students enrolled. The class is taught by Calabrese, an instructor with the MountainView Hospital Paramedic Program and Vice President of Operations for Community Ambulance. Students meet daily for a class and lab. The school is a certified EMT site by the Health Department. The class is available to seniors who have successfully completed prerequisites for the program. Ryan M., a 17-year-old senior at Amplus Academy, enrolled in the EMT program because he felt like it gave him career options. Ryan, who has attended Amplus since fourth

ACCORDING TO THE U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, OVERALL EMPLOYMENT OF EMTs AND PARAMEDICS IS PROJECTED TO GROW 5% FROM 2022 TO 2032, FASTER THAN THE AVERAGE FOR ALL OCCUPATIONS. THERE ARE ABOUT 18,100 OPENINGS FOR EMTS AND PARAMEDICS EACH YEAR, ON AVERAGE, ACCORDING TO BUREAU DATA.

FEBRUARY 2024

Continued on page 38

A partnership between MountainView Hospital and Amplus Academy gives high school students the opportunity to train as EMTs. For students, the program is a pathway to potential jobs related to medicine. For Las Vegas, it’s a boost to its EMT pipeline. (Courtesy)

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Continued from page 36

uate medical education, pharmacy residencies and nursing residencies. grade, said he is interested in health sciences and MountainView’s Paramedic Institute was would like to work as an EMT post-graduation to launched in 2020 to facilitate the growth and edhelp fund college. ucation of paramedic students in the community. “I think the class is really cool,” he said. “My The 57-week program involves a stringent didactic favorite part is the Saturday labs.” regimen, skills practice lab, and hands-on clinical The class is no small commitment, with students immersion. meeting two Saturdays a month for six hours each ‌‌MountainView partnered with nine local Fire Desession. Saturday classes are held at Community partments and private EMS agencies to create the Ambulance headquarters in Henderson, where program. Students attending the institute are sponstudents get hands-on training from experienced sored by each agency. The current fourth cohort is EMTs and Paramedics. the institute’s largest thus far, with 60 students. Calabrese said the program is not only about “The Las Vegas Valley, much like the rest of the training the next generation of EMTs for the comnation, is experiencing a Paramedic/EMS provider munity, but preparing the students shortage,” said Susie Kochevar, to become young adults post high MSN, Paramedic Institute Lead school graduation. Paramedic Educator. “This has been “Many of these students may not exasperated by an aging workforce, go into health care, but this class COVID-19, and overall decline in inwill have meaning for them for their terest in the paramedic profession.” entire lives,” Calabrese said. “These MountainView is the only hospiskills will add value to them and tal in Las Vegas, as well as the HCA gives them exposure to other things Healthcare enterprise, to offer an they may not have the opportunity extensive educational and training to experience. program for prehospital profes“For me, it’s all about prepping sionals. “An EMT program seemed them to leave high school.” like a natural part of the growth Calabrese said in addition to the of the health care education and clinical aspect, he encourages stutraining programs provided to the – EYERUSALEM, 17 dents to present in front of the class, community,“ said Troy Tuke, Parawhich he says helps them build not medic Institute director. just their speaking skills, but their self-esteem. “It’s 100 percent the goal to grow the next generaLisa Cates, assistant principal at Amplus Acadetion of EMTs,” Tuke said. “EMTs in our community my, said the EMT program has been a big hit and a are the frontline of care for many. It also is an entry draw for new students in the community, who want point to a multitude of careers in health care and to join specifically for the program. EMS services.” “It is a big commitment for these students,” Cates For senior Eyerusalem, 17, the EMT class is what said, adding that perquisites include anatomy or she hopes is the start of a long medical career. health sciences. “Additionally we offer them a week“I joined the EMT class for insight into medical long summer course just to give them a boost.” careers and occupations for when I grow up,” she Amplus senior Tinbite A., 17, said she is very said. “I plan on going to college and then medical interested in the medical field and would like to be school; I want to be a surgeon.” an anesthesiologist. Cates said they will continue to learn and grow “I plan on working as an EMT throughout college the program for future students. and in the summer,” she said. “It will help build my “Our favorite thing about a program like this is education and confidence and learn more in the when students graduate, they are ready to enter the field.” workforce, or have a part-time job if they pursue MountainView Hospital is committed to health college,” she said. “Our job is to prepare them for care education in the community, providing gradlife, not just a high school diploma.”

“I JOINED THE EMT CLASS FOR INSIGHT INTO MEDICAL CAREERS AND OCCUPATIONS FOR WHEN I GROW UP. I PLAN ON GOING TO COLLEGE AND THEN MEDICAL SCHOOL; I WANT TO BE A SURGEON.”

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

Elevating radiological care in Las Vegas’ evolving sports and entertainment landscape BY ALAN WEISSMAN

here has been a remarkable transformation in Las Vegas in recent years. The city has evolved from being the entertainment capital of the world to becoming a hub for professional sports teams and major events. With this evolution, the demand for specialized health care, particularly in the field of radiology, has surged. The radiology community in Las Vegas has quickly recognized this paradigm shift and dedicated themselves to meeting the unique medical needs of the athletes and performers who call Las Vegas home. Desert Radiology prides itself on being at the forefront of medical innovation, and as the landscape of Las Vegas evolves, so too does its commitment to providing unparalleled care. This commitment has manifested in the form of specialized radiological services designed explicitly for athletes and Weissman performers who demand excellence, precision, speed, and tailored solutions. A key element of Desert Radiology’s approach is recognizing that radiological needs of athletes go beyond routine diagnostics. The high physical demands of their professions necessitate a more personalized and proactive approach to health care. The team of specialized radiologists at Desert Radiology understands that athletes require not only accurate diagnosis but also preventive measures and targeted treatments to ensure they can perform at their peak. The musculoskeletal radiologists on the Desert Radiology/Radiology Partners team speak with the physicians, trainers, and other health professionals caring for this patient population on a near daily basis. The physicians are excellent and highly dedicated, demanding prompt, top-quality scanning and accurate, timely interpretations. This may require finding extra time during a busy workday, but the

benefits of this close collaboration ultimately translate to the best possible medical care for the patient The partnership between Desert Radiology and the sports and entertainment community in Las Vegas goes beyond diagnosis and treatment. The aim is not only to heal but also to optimize performance and contribute to the sustained success of these professionals in their respective fields. The influx of major sports teams to Las Vegas is not only elevating the city’s profile in the sports world but is also playing a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top-tier radiology talent. As these professional athletes seek the best in medical care, the demand for highly skilled and specialized radiologists has surged. Recognizing this, Desert Radiology and the Las Vegas radiology community have become magnets for top radiological talent, drawn to the opportunity to work closely with elite athletes and performers. The collaborative environment between radiologists and the sports teams fosters a unique professional synergy, allowing to constantly refine and advance the approach to athlete-centric health care. The convergence of sports and radiology in Las Vegas has created a dynamic ecosystem where the pursuit of excellence in both fields is not only encouraged but celebrated, solidifying the city’s reputation as a destination not just for world-class entertainment but also for cutting-edge medical expertise. As the medical landscape continues to evolve, so does Desert Radiology’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. It is actively involved in ongoing research and development initiatives, exploring new technologies and methodologies to further enhance the ability to serve the evolving needs of the sports and entertainment industry in Las Vegas. Alan Weissman is a Musculoskeletal and Oncological Radiologist at Desert Radiology.

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Dispelling common misconceptions and myths about cancer BY MATTHEW W. SCHWARTZ, MD

M Matthew W. Schwartz, MD, is a radiation oncologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers

yths and misinformation can be deadly, and like cancer, misconceptions can spread quickly. Without active efforts to dispel misinformation about cancer, the public can become ill-informed, anxious, and wary of proper treatment and preventative measures. A myth that has gained traction during the past two decades is that cellphones cause cancer. As stated by the National Cancer Institute, “there is currently no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiation increases cancer risk in humans.” Genetic mutations are the main cause of cancer, and the low-frequency energy emitted by cellphones likely does not possess the capacity to damage genes. Another commonly circulated myth is the idea that cancer is an automatic death sentence. However, the likelihood of perishing because of cancer in the U.S. has steadily declined since 1990. While many factors affect a cancer patient’s prognosis—such as overall health and the amount of cancer in the body— the five year cancer survival rate has increased from 49% in the 1970s to 68% today. A third myth claims cancer is a contagious disease that spreads from person to person. Cancer cannot spread human to human, and the sole circumstance under which spreading can loosely occur is in the case of bodily transplantation. Even then, risk is low, with cases of cancer occurring in no more than two per 10,000 transplants. Can eating sugar worsen cancerous conditions or can stopping the consumption of sugar halt cancer altogether? Not likely. This misconception is somewhat based in science—research shows that cancer cells absorb much more sugar than healthy cells—but eating sugar doesn’t neces-

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

sarily lead to developing cancer. However, it’s true that excess sugar consumption can lead to excess weight gain and obesity, which carries an increased risk of cancer. Deodorants and antiperspirants have long been targets of breast cancer myths. Most studies have not found a link between antiperspirant use and developing cancer. Other myths relate to family history and the risk of developing cancer. The idea that a person is at increased risk of cancer if someone in their family develops the disease is not necessarily true. Ninety percent of cancers develop as a result of aging and exposure to cancer-linked agents, such as smoking and radiation. Alternately, the idea everyone in a family is risk-free if there isn’t a family history of cancer is also incorrect. In truth, many factors affect the development and spread of cancer, including exercise and general health. There are many misconceptions surrounding herbal products and their role in cancer treatment. While some research indicates that alternative or complementary therapies may assist patients in managing the adverse effects of cancer treatment, there is little reliable evidence to support the effectiveness of herbal products alone in treating cancer. Extreme caution should be exercised when using herbal products during chemotherapy or radiation therapy because they may interfere with the treatments. Cancer patients should discuss any complementary and alternative medicine products, such as vitamins and herbal supplements, with their doctor. With the progress of modern technology and science, cancer has become less formidable. Although we recognize the gravity of this illness, our aim is to inspire all patients with a message of hope, reminding them that the battle against cancer is ongoing and best combated with the latest and most accurate information.

Reimagining Healthcare Roseman University is training the next generation of compassionate and highly competent healthcare providers in pharmacy, nursing, dental medicine and graduate studies to thrive in the ever-changing world of healthcare. With more than two decades of building from a firm foundation to a broad universe of healthcare education, Roseman continues to develop innovative programs that train a diverse student body to be exceptional leaders in their chosen fields. We look ahead to the limitless promise of the future, in providing our communities unparalleled patient care, scientific discovery, and commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in our region and beyond.

HOW DO WE REIMAGINE HEALTHCARE? Developed Roseman Dental Clinics, offering reduced-cost, high-quality Dental and Orthodontic care to adults and children and specialized care for children with cancer and other systemic diseases and those with cleft lip and palate deformities Via Roseman Medical Group, offering high-value evidence-based family medicine to adults as well as GENESIS, offering household-centered care, and EMPOWERED, supporting pregnant and post-partum mothers with substance abuse disorders Through thousands of dollars annually of donated care to underserved populations in Nevada and Utah

Learn more at roseman.edu Transforming Education. Reimagining Healthcare. Embracing Discovery. Committed to Community.

roseman.edu | @rosemanuhs

Delivering babies goes high tech at Touro University Nevada BY ANDREW PRIEST, EDD, PT

Andrew Priest, EdD, PT, is Campus President and Provost, Touro University Nevada and Jose Noriega, EdD, is Chief Information Officer, Touro University.

ouro University Nevada, the state’s largest medical school and only school of osteopathic medicine, is home to Nevada’s only accredited simulation center, the Michael Tang Regional Center for Clinical Simulation. It received provisional accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, a highly respected global institution that has certified only 224 of these centers worldwide. Future physicians are trained on everything from drawing blood, intubating patients, IV insertion, catheter placement, and now, delivering babies. Touro was gifted with Victoria S2200, a female high-fidelity manikin by Gaumard, and one of only three in the state. This experience allows students to practice and build confidence in basic and complex skills before treating patients.   The manikin was affectionately named Eve by donors, Cindy Reiman, and her sons, Jeff and Josh. This manikin represents the “first woman” to provide state-of-the art simulation for students and can deliver a baby via various birthing scenarios, including breech, posterior, shoulder dystocia, C-section and more. Eve is controlled by a computer in an adjoining room and can simulate births lasting a few minutes or a few hours and has two manikin babies that can be placed in various positions to further the realism of the experience.   As a technology-driven tool, Eve allows students to train in realistic, lifelike situations without the pressure or fear of making a mistake on a human patient. Similar to a pilot who learns to fly a plane in a simulated air-

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

craft, medical students trained in simulation facilities have an opportunity to perfect their skills and techniques before they start clinical training. Eve also allows clinical students to experience various pathologies and presentations that they may not otherwise encounter on their rotations. Eve also supports training for routine pelvic exams and IUD placement, as well as post-birth scenarios, such as postpartum blood clots and excessive bleeding. Eve can bleed, perspire, blink and talk, responding appropriately to cues throughout the birthing process. Eve also helps student physicians practice their bedside manner, showing empathy while maintaining professionalism.     As an additional tool, mixed reality lenses give students an immersive and interactive experience throughout the birthing process. Student physicians can see inside Eve to better identify and understand the position of the baby, helping them to learn appropriate techniques, actions and ensure a safe delivery for mom and baby alike.   As Touro’s first automated birthing manikin, Eve joins the University’s collection that includes four male high-fidelity manikins and one high-fidelity female manikin. Touro’s next simulator is slated to be a high-fidelity pediatric manikin that will provide students with the opportunity to train with smaller instruments and clinical techniques appropriate for children. Understanding human anatomy, internally and externally, is foundational to mastering the techniques required to safely and successfully accomplish medical assessments and procedures. As medicine and technology continue to evolve, it is critical for our student physicians to

Touro University Nevada’s high-fidelity birthing manikin, Eve, provides student physicians with the opportunity to train in realistic, lifelike situations without fear of making a mistake on a human patient. (Courtesy)

MEDICAL STUDENTS TRAINED IN SIMULATION FACILITIES HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO PERFECT THEIR SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES BEFORE THEY START CLINICAL TRAINING. EVE ALSO ALLOWS CLINICAL STUDENTS TO EXPERIENCE VARIOUS PATHOLOGIES AND PRESENTATIONS THAT THEY MAY NOT OTHERWISE ENCOUNTER ON THEIR ROTATIONS.

have access to the latest, innovative and state-of-the-art educational tools here at Touro. Touro is working toward earning full accreditation by the SSH within the next few years.     The Clinical Simulation Center’s groundbreaking facility is equipped with technologically advanced equipment, featuring more than 250 task trainers to improve skills proficiency in IV insertion, abdominal examination, intubation, EKG monitoring, eye and ear exams, heart, lung and bowel sounds, foley catheter placement, male and female health exams, and more. It includes a six-bed multifunctional hospital unit with observation deck, 20 objective structured clinical examination rooms staffed by more

FEBRUARY 2024

than 50 standardized patients, three high-fidelity multifunctional hospital simulation rooms, three simulation debriefing rooms, six high-fidelity manikins (not including Eve’s babies), an ultrasound training facility with nine beds made possible by OptumCare, a gross anatomy and bio skills lab, as well as a 75-seat lecture hall.   By giving student physicians an array of simulation experiences through high-fidelity manikin encounters, mixed reality lenses, skills proficiency task trainers, in addition to learning on human cadavers and standardized patients, Touro is utilizing multiple tools and avenues to ensure our future physicians are well-versed and prepared to provide exceptional patient care.

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

Intermountain Health takes steps to assess, address community needs BY WILL RUCKER

I Will Rucker is Community Health Director at Intermountain Health Desert Region

dentifying opportunities to improve social determinants of health will help set the framework for healthy lives. To do this effectively, it’s important to gain a comprehensive understanding of the communities we serve. Intermountain Health performs a community health needs assessment report for Southern Nevada, informed by input from local organizations and nonprofits that represent a broad range of interests. The report provides valuable insight into our greatest health concerns and issues, and it guides our efforts to address the health needs of our community. It’s a road map to help focus resources where they’re needed most. Intermountain Health has conducted community health needs assessments as a system since 2009. The process for assessing Southern Nevada begins by gathering data related to regional health behaviors, health outcomes, causes of death, and social influences on health. Participants give in-depth interviews and share their perspectives on health needs. In the most recent assessment, three categories of health needs surfaced: n Improve mental well-being. n Improve chronic and avoidable health outcomes. n Address and invest in social determinants of health. The report includes the perspectives of underrepresented, medically underserved, low-income, and minority populations, as well as the organizations that advocate for them. Here are seven significant health concerns listed in order of perceived significance: 1. Mental health in adults and children. This category includes concerns about child isolation during COVID-related remote learning, as well as inadequate mental health support at home or

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

school. There is also a clear need for more crisis care, in-patient care, and outpatient treatment, with a need to focus on upstream prevention and adverse childhood experiences and trauma. 2. Substance use and misuse in adults and children, the most notable concern being alcohol use. 3. Access to and trust in affordable health care, particularly for underrepresented communities. There is a shortage of primary care/pediatric and behavioral health providers. Feedback also noted concerns that specialty care for children had to be sought out of state. 4. Lack of affordable, safe, and quality housing, especially near health care providers. 5. Managing and preventing chronic disease, predominantly obesity and obesity-related chronic illnesses. 6. Suicide. While Nevada has decreased its teen suicide rates in recent years, the state remains 15th in the nation for death by suicide and is ranked 51st for youth mental health measures, indicating high mental health needs and low access to care. 7. Transportation. Intermountain Health will use the information from the Community Health Needs Assessment to collaborate with community stakeholders to create a comprehensive community health implementation plan. These initiatives and strategies will be published and tracked to ensure they are followed to completion. Intermountain Health is looking to: n Continue efforts to understand the community’s needs, and structure Intermountain Health services to address those needs. n Ensure financial assistance for low-income and medically underserved patients. n Use Intermountain Health philanthropy to support aligned needs. The full community health needs assessment report is available at intermountainhealthcare.org/ about/who-we-are/chna-reports.

Robotic surgeries are advancing in Nevada. What’s next? BY RICHARD BAYNOSA, MD, FACS

ichard Baynosa, MD, FACS, is internationally recognized as a pioneer in robotic surgery. He is UNLV’s Robotic Surgery Fellowship Director, as well as President of the Mountain West Society of Plastic Surgeons. UNLV staff recently spoke to Baynosa about advances in robotic surgery.

What are the benefits of using robots in surgical settings? Robots are being used in surgery to make smaller incisions, improve visualization—particularly in areas where it’s hard to see and operate—improve precision, and eliminate hand tremors.

Richard Baynosa, MD, FACS, is Professor and Founding Chair of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. Paul Joncich is Manager of Media Relations at Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV.

What specialties effectively use robotics? Specialists that work deep in the pelvis, such as urologists, colorectal surgeons and gynecologic oncologists use robots most frequently. These doctors operate on the bladder, prostate and rectum. In the past, a surgeon required multiple retractors and hands, and it was difficult to see and navigate through these areas of the body. Robots have multiple arms doing exactly what’s needed, and scopes zoom in to give greater sight to the area. What is the role of robotics in reconstructive work? I’m using robotic surgery to perform reconstruction after abdominal peroneal resection for low-lying rectal cancer. The colorectal surgeon removes the rectum, and the patient relies on a colostomy. Historically during the reconstruction process, we used flaps from

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

the abdomen, including skin, to drop muscle from the abdomen down into the pelvis to fill the space where the rectum used to be. But that was when large, open incisions were more common. Now, the majority of colorectal surgeons are using robotic techniques. It’s become an area of great interest among reconstructive surgeons who do their surgeries after the colorectal surgeons finish. Because the colorectal surgeons are already utilizing the robot, the crew is already in place, as well as nurses and techs, so it does not require additional expense or training for reconstructive surgeons who go in after. Robots are decreasing morbidity and improving the outcomes for the patient. What prompted your group to begin using robotics? As colorectal surgeons incorporated more robotic techniques to remove large tumors, the reconstruction teams have followed suit to avoid large incisions during the reconstruction process. Large incisions often cause complaints among patients because of their size and increased pain. How is Southern Nevada doing when it comes to robotic surgery? Southern Nevada is on par with many specialties across the country that are incorporating more robotics. Most colorectal surgeons, gynecological oncologists, urologists and general surgeons have incorporated robotic techniques. Thoracic, ENT, and orthopedic surgeons are increasingly utilizing robotic techniques as well. In plastic and reconstructive surgery, we are at the forefront.

How are we teaching the next generation? As one of the founding members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Robotics Task Force, I am committed to fostering best practices, routes for credentialing, and collecting data on not just the surgeries that I do with robots, but other surgeries that can be done with robots. Inside our new medical education building, we have a simulation center with the exact same console as the robot used in the operating room. In addition, University Medical Center has dual consoles where residents and fellows train. It’s almost like driver’s training— with a secondary steering wheel in the passenger seat. The dual consoles allow control of the robot to be handed off so new surgeons can become familiar with performing the techniques.

SOUTHERN NEVADA IS ON PAR WITH MANY SPECIALTIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY THAT ARE INCORPORATING MORE ROBOTICS. IN PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY, WE ARE AT THE FOREFRONT. When you’re on the console, it’s almost like playing a video game. Younger trainees in-tune with video games and a stereoscopic view see the operation on the screen and have good depth perception without necessarily needing the tactile skill. Are new technologies on the forefront? Yes, several. There are clinical trials where surgeons are performing robotic mastectomies and breast reconstruction. Additionally, there’s

a microsurgical robot that utilizes fine movement to eliminate tremor. It aids microsurgical dissection, anastomosis, connecting blood vessels in small areas during procedures like transplant surgery, and during free flap surgery where vessels are one millimeter or under. The robot is already used in Europe and is being reviewed by the FDA in the coming months. It would help facilitate improved reconstructions with decreased morbidity for head and neck reconstruction.

THE DAY’S

BIGGEST NEWS Your best life begins here. Primary Care for Adults 60+

STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Sign-up Now at LVSun.com/Optin

Trouble getting in to see your provider when you’re sick? Same-day appointments are just one of the many ways ArchWell Health makes life after 60 healthier and happier.

Call or visit us online to learn more. ArchWellHealth.com | (725) 269-3368

FEBRUARY 2024

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

+ HCQ Notes Nevada Donor Network announced the appointment of Harrison Scott Pollinger, DO, FACS, to associate medical director and recovery surgeon role. Dr. Pollinger has decades of experience in organ donation and transplant surgery, including more than 17 years of experience in leading one of the country’s largest transplant centers. He’ll help expand and grow NDN’s footprint within Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, American Society of Transplant Surgeons, and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Governor Joe Lombardo made eight new appointments to the Patient Protection Commission. Established in 2019, the Patient Protection Commission was created to review issues related to the health care needs of Nevada residents, including accessibility, affordability, and quality. New Patient Protection Commission members include Bayo Curry-Winchell, Wenette Simons, Jalyn McKelleb, Marilyn Kirkpatrick, Bethany Sexton, Walter Davis, Andria Peterson, and Floreine Kahn.

Southwest Medical’s Oakey Health Care Center in Las Vegas was recognized by America’s Physician Group among its 2023 Standards of Excellence program’s “Elite” status honorees. Southwest Medical, part of Optum, was among 70 member-physician groups nationwide that earned the acclamation. Optum Cancer Care added two new physicians to help meet the growing need for health services. Okechukwu Obi, MD and Swetha Pentapati, MD joined Optum Cancer Care (2300 W. Charleston Blvd.), specializing in internal medicine. Optum Nevada partnered with the Vegas Golden Knights for “Hockey Fights Cancer.” The effort helps support the American Cancer Society and Canadian Cancer Society in providing resources for cancer patients and their families. The ER at West Craig, an extension of Centennial Hills, opened in December. Located in northwest Las Vegas, it’s open for 24/7 emergency care. It is staffed with emergency medicine physicians, nurses and techs, and equipped with the same diagnostic technology available at the Centennial Hills Hospital emergency department. Galen College of Nursing, an affiliate of HCA Healthcare, will expand access to nursing education with plans to open a new campus in Las Vegas at 9260 W. Sunset Rd in Southern Hills Hospital. It will offer a two year associate degree in

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

FEBRUARY 2024

nursing, a three year bachelor of science in nursing program and a simulation center where students can participate in an immersive, hands-on environment designed to prepare them for real-world health care scenarios. Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, Southern Nevada’s only pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center appointed Christine Tonn as its new chief executive officer. This promotion is part of a board of directors-supported management succession plan. Tonn initially served as the chief financial officer and was later promoted to president in 2021. Annette Logan-Parker, founder and former CEO of Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, will assume the role of chief advocacy and innovation officer. Logan-Parker will advocate for the medical needs and services of pediatric cancer and rare disease patients with lawmakers at the local, state, and national levels. She will also focus on developing external strategies to enhance C4K’s ability to serve an increasing number of patients and expand research opportunities. Logan-Parker will also remain president of the Cure 4 The Kids Foundation board of directors. Comprehensive Cancer Centers announced Paul Dieter as its executive director. Dieter was vice president of radiation oncology and diagnostic imaging for The US Oncology Network based out of Houston. MountainView Hospital dedicated a new patient tower, the final phase of a multiphase, multi-year project that expanded MountainView’s ER, bed capacity, and parking garage space. The new tower adds 64 beds and 71,714 square feet to MountainView Hospital. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society announced $65 million in new grants to 78 research teams across seven countries, expanding LLS’s academic research portfolio to more than $240 million in multi-year grants. The grants support almost 300 top scientific investigators at

prestigious cancer institutions, including Dana-Farber Cancer Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican announced more than $370,000 in community health improvement grants to eight Southern Nevada nonprofit collaborations. ■ Research, Education and Access for Community Health was awarded $100,000 for its Access to Care project, which will address the need for access to affordable and quality primary health care and supportive services in underserved communities. ■ Jewish Family Service Agency was awarded $88,000 to provide at least 8,700 rides to individuals to increase health and community resource access. ■ Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada was awarded $50,000 for its Help, Hope, and Housing project. The project will address the need for access to health care for the low-income residents of CCSN’s St. Vincent Apartments. ■ Brooke’s Good Deeds was awarded $38,400 for its Pantry Services Plus project. Services will be provided to 750 current participants and up to 500 additional to address chronic disease offering CST, TRY, and Respite Senior Day program opportunities. ■ Roseman University of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy was awarded $30,000 for its Medicare Call Center project. The university will offer services at its on-campus Roseman Medicare call center, assisting 1,000 Medicare beneficiaries in navigating Medicare.gov. ■ Living Grace Homes was awarded $23,071 for its Safe & Sound Campaign. The project focuses on providing housing, education and medical care for women from backgrounds of trafficking, domestic abuse, and trauma. ■ CARE Chest was awarded $22,553 for CARE Chest 2024. CARE Chest’s programming addresses the lack of access to medical resources by providing free durable medical equipment, medical supplies, diabetic testing

supplies, and other vital resources to low-income Nevadans. ■ Nevada Future of Nursing Action Coalition was awarded $20,000 for the Nayon Nevada: Filipino-American Patient-Centered Outcomes project. The NAYON project will provide chronic disease education and prevention among Filipino-Americans in Southern Nevada by training and certifying 20 FA nurses and primary care providers in chronic disease self-management. Southwest Medical Hospice and Optum Palliative Care promoted Brian Greenlee, RN, MSN, to administrator. Preivously, he was the associate director of nursing. Greenlee has worked at several home health and hospice groups, supervising multidisciplinary clinical staff in the management of health care for homebound patients. A collaboration between Cure 4 The Kids Foundation and SilverSummit Healthplan brought a pediatric rheumatologist to Southern Nevada. Saumya V. Joshi, MD, MS, provides care for C4K patients who are affected by a range of rheumatological conditions that include lupus, scleroderma, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and other lesser-known rheumatic conditions. Goodwill of Southern Nevada announced Kamalisha “Kam” Green as its chief mission services officer. In her role, Kam oversees strategic initiatives involving Goodwill’s programs of service to community members and internal team members. Kam works with local employers on partnerships with Green Goodwill to provide free career training for underserved populations at the speed required to meet their hiring needs.

FEBRUARY 2024

UNLV Health is expanding by opening a third Gynecology & Obstetrics Clinic at 700 Shadow Lane, Suite 165. Physicians and staff will offer gynecological and obstetric services, including high-risk pregnancy, preventative, special, and surgical care. UNLV Health is the clinical practice plan of the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, providing care to more than 20,000 patients per month at its primary and specialty care clinics.

H E A LT H C A R E Q U A R T E R LY

MOVING INTO THE FUTURE | GROWING WITH THE COMMUNITY IMPROVING HEALTHCARE FOR SOUTHERN NEVADA

TEACHING FOR TOMORROW. CARING FOR TODAY. unlv.edu/jobs

SHOW US WHERE IT HURTS. WE’LL MAKE IT ALL BETTER. Using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, you now can see a provider—and they can see you—whenever you need, 24/7. SIGN UP TODAY AND SEE ONE OF UMC’S WORLD-CLASS LOCAL PROVIDERS WITHIN MINUTES. Go to umconlinecare.com or download the app to sign up.

You’ll receive expert-level care for a wide range of both urgent issues and routine medical needs, including: COVID-19 symptoms • Coughs/Sneezes/Aches • Respiratory issues Most non-narcotic medication refills • Ear infection • Abdominal pain • And many other symptoms