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May 19
1

Free Pool Parties Get Clark County Moving

By | News

Health District’s Move Your Way® campaign returns May 22 with fun, family-friendly events

 Grab your swimsuit and sunscreen! Clark County residents are invited to dive into a healthier summer as the Southern Nevada Health District launches its annual Move Your Way® campaign. Kicking off May 22, the free, family-friendly poolside events bring together music, activities and community fun to help people of all ages stay active while keeping cool.

Sponsored by the Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, the events will take place at recreation center pools throughout the Valley from May 22 through September 7. Each event offers an opportunity for families and individuals to stay active, connect with others and enjoy the summer season. A full schedule of events is available at GetHealthyClarkCounty.org and VivaSaludable.org.

Regular physical activity plays a critical role in preventing chronic disease, yet many people in Clark County are not getting enough exercise. According to the 2023 Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System, 26.2% of adults in Clark County were sedentary, meaning they reported no physical activity outside of work in the past 30 days. The 2025 Youth Risk Behavior Survey also found that 13.6% of high school students were sedentary, reporting no days with at least 60 minutes of physical activity in the previous week.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week.

“Programs like Move Your Way® help remove barriers to physical activity by making it free, convenient and enjoyable,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “Whether it’s swimming, playing games or simply spending time with family, these events show that staying active can be both easy and fun.”

Move Your Way® is a national campaign led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that encourages people to meet the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans through everyday movement. The campaign offers tools and resources to help individuals set goals, stay motivated and build lasting healthy habits.

In addition to in-person events, people can access free online programs through the Get Healthy Clark County and Viva Saludable websites. These include Walk Around Nevada and the Neon to Nature mobile app, along with resources supporting healthy eating, tobacco cessation and overall wellness.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

May 15
0

Miracle ECMO Patient Treated at Sunrise Hospital

By | News

Just weeks ago, Ethan Alcala was fighting for his life, unable to breathe on his own. On May 15th, he walked out of Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center — a recovery his care team is calling nothing short of a miracle. Ethan was transferred to Sunrise from another hospital for higher level, ECMO care.

May 12
1

First Single-Port Thoracic Surgery on West Coast Performed at MountainView Hospital

By | Featured, News

Breakthrough minimally invasive, advanced technology results in less pain, shorter hospital stays

MountainView Hospital has achieved a major medical first, successfully performing the West Coast’s first single-port thoracic surgery using advanced robotic technology.

The minimally invasive procedure, used to treat conditions such as lung cancer, emphysema and reflux, was performed by Dr. Arnold Chung of MountainView Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Associates using the da Vinci SP (single-port) robotic system.

“This approach ultimately means less pain, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays for our patients,” said Dr. Chung.

During the procedure, Dr. Chung precisely controls the robotic instruments from a console, translating the movements of his hands into small, highly controlled motions of the system’s instruments. This level of control allows for greater precision and access in tight spaces while minimizing impact on surrounding tissue.

“This is a game changer for patients,” said MountainView Hospital CEO Alexis Mussi. “By combining the expertise of our surgical team with advanced technology, we’re delivering safer, more effective care to our community.”

The technique lessens trauma to surrounding tissue and nerves, offering patients a faster, smoother recovery compared to traditional multi-port surgery.

About MountainView Hospital:

MountainView Hospital is a state-of-the-art, full-service medical facility located in the heart of northwest Las Vegas. With a dedicated and talented staff of employees and outstanding physicians, MountainView Hospital is recognized for high patient satisfaction and for providing quality and compassionate care to our community since 1996. MountainView features nationally recognized programs including a top cardiovascular and thoracic center and integrated cardiology clinic, and the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Robotic Surgery. MountainView is the only hospital in Nevada to offer bone marrow transplants. The Sunrise Health Medical Education Consortium, based at MountainView, trains the next generation of physicians and surgeons for our community.

MountainView is a member of the respected Sunrise Health System consisting of Sunrise Hospital, Sunrise Children’s Hospital, Southern Hills Hospital and several surgery, diagnostic imaging, urgent care centers and three freestanding hospital based emergency rooms, offering a complete range of specialized and technologically advanced services.

May 11
1

Las Vegas Surgeon Hits 2,000 Robotic Spine Surgeries

By | News

A major milestone in surgical innovation recently happened at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas, led by internationally recognized spine surgeon Dr. Kornelis Poelstra.

Dr. Poelstra, a spine surgeon at Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center, completed his 2,000th robotic-assisted surgery, a milestone that reflects both experience and the growing role of robotics in the operating room.

He has also led several high-profile advancements in recent years, including:

  • Leading the world’s first multi-arm robotic spine surgery (2025), using an FDA-cleared system designed to enhance precision and efficiency
  • Performing one of the first spine surgeries in the world using a next-generation robotic platform (2024)

With 2000 robotic surgeries completed, he continues to break boundaries, further helping position Southern Hills Hospital as a leader in robotic spine surgery with a focus on minimally invasive techniques and patient care. Most importantly, it also represents real impact, including the thousands of patients he’s helped find relief, regain mobility and get back to their lives.

May 11
1
HEALS

June 2026 Magazine Theme: Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

By | Featured, News

The theme for June’s Vegas HEALS Healthcare magazine is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month We invite anyone interested in having content featured to send materials to Adriana. Those interested in placing advertisements can also email Adriana to send in materials, or ask any questions you may have.

Advertising Specs

1/4 Page -3.5″ w x 4.5″
1/2 Page -7.5″ w x 5.5″
Full Page 8.5” x 11”

Advertising Options

Quarter page $100
Half-page – $150
Full page – $275
Advertorial – $550
Front Cover – $675
Back Cover – $375

Articles/human interest pieces – 500 – 600 words (please include pictures)

*All submissions must be received by the 10th of every month. If you need our assistance designing your ad, our designer can help (for an additional fee)

May 08
1

Comprehensive Cancer Centers Announces Collaboration with Sarah Cannon Research Institute

By | Uncategorized

Program Expanding Access to Cutting-Edge Cancer Trials in Las Vegas

Comprehensive Cancer Centers, through its affiliation with The US Oncology Network (The Network), is expanding its community-based clinical trials by collaborating with Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials. This collaboration will be known as “SCRI at Comprehensive Cancer Centers” and will expand access to innovative cancer treatments for patients across Southern Nevada.

Since its inception, SCRI has conducted more than 900 first-in-human trials and contributed to pivotal research that has led to the majority of new cancer therapies approved by the FDA in the past decade. Through this collaboration, SCRI at Comprehensive will provide increased opportunities for patients to enroll in groundbreaking clinical trials—bringing world-class research directly into the community.

“With more than 30 years of experience bringing clinical trials to Southern Nevada, our collaboration with Sarah Cannon Research Institute represents a meaningful step forward in expanding access to innovative cancer treatments for patients in our community,” said Lisa Santwer, executive director of Comprehensive. “For decades, our focus has been on delivering advanced, compassionate care close to home. This collaboration strengthens that commitment by broadening access to clinical trials that have the potential to make a real difference in the lives of patients.”

The collaboration with SCRI offers several advantages for cancer patients:

  • Greater Treatment Options: Eligible patients will have access to a wider range of clinical trials, offering options based on their individualized treatment plan.
  • Access to Cutting-Edge Therapies: Eligible patients will have the opportunity to participate in trials evaluating the latest advancements in cancer research.
  • Advanced Clinical Trial Matching: Comprehensive will leverage SCRI’s Personalized Medicine Team and Genospace, a highly specific trial matching technology that uses clinical and genetic data to help identify individualized trial opportunities for patients.

“This collaboration reflects the power of community-based clinical research to transform patient care,” said Dee Anna Smith, CEO of SCRI. “Together, we are deepening a shared commitment to deliver innovative clinical trials within Nevada communities —expanding patient access and advancing the future of cancer care close to home.”

With local roots dating to 1974, Comprehensive has grown alongside Southern Nevada, evolving into one of the region’s most established oncology providers. The practice was built on the idea of bringing advanced cancer care into the community, uniting specialties and services under one coordinated model. Today, its physicians work closely with leading national research networks and institutions, helping translate breakthrough science into accessible treatment options for local patients. That longstanding emphasis on research-driven care has allowed Comprehensive to play a role in the development of more than 120 FDA-approved therapies.

This relationship between Comprehensive and SCRI highlights Comprehensive’s dedication to providing the most advanced, personalized cancer care close to home.

About Comprehensive Cancer Centers
Comprehensive Cancer Centers is an award-winning multi-specialty practice comprising medical oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, breast surgery, pulmonary services, cancer genetic counseling clinical research and other infusion services, with treatment centers and offices throughout Southern Nevada. For more than 50 years, the practice has provided oncology services to patients in and out of state with a specialized physician and nursing staff. Comprehensive, an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, offers state-of-the-art technologies, latest advancements in cancer treatment and groundbreaking clinical research trials. The practice participates in more than 150 Phase I, Phase II and Phase III clinical research studies each year and has played a role in developing more than 120 FDA-approved cancer therapies. For more information, visit the company’s website.

About Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI)
Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI) is one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials. Focused on advancing therapies for patients over the last three decades, SCRI is a leader in drug development. It has conducted more than 900 first-in-human clinical trials since its inception and contributed to pivotal research that has led to the majority of new cancer therapies approved by the FDA in the past decade. SCRI’s research network brings together approximately 1,500 oncology physicians who provide access to clinical trials in SCRI’s research network of over 200 locations in more than 20 states across the U.S. Visit SCRI.com to learn more.

May 08
1

College Students and Young Adults Face Ongoing Mental Health Challenges

By | News
By Dr. Nicole Brady, chief medical officer, UnitedHealthcare Student Resources
Mental health challenges among young people remain persistently high, and many students and families are still trying to understand how best to respond.
UnitedHealthcare’s fourth annual Young Adult and College Student Behavioral Health Report found that more than 6 in 10 (62%) college students and young adults not enrolled in college ages 18–28 reported experiencing a mental or behavioral health concern in the past year — consistent with elevated levels over the past four years.
In addition, in Nevada, approximately 18.1 % of young adults reported their mental health was not good for 14 or more days in the past 30 days, according to America’s Health Rankings.
Among college students, concerns are rising. UnitedHealthcare’s survey found nearly 70% said they have experienced concerns such as anxiety/stress or depression, reaching the highest levels in four years. At the same time, many parents may not fully recognize what students are going through, pointing to an opportunity for more awareness, communication and support.
As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s a meaningful time to focus on practical ways to support young adults and students. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator or navigating these challenges yourself, here are three ways to help support mental well-being:
  1. Start with open, honest conversations
Frequency doesn’t always lead to understanding. Survey findings uncover that while 39% of parents of college students believed their child felt understood after conversations, only 28% of students agreed, and 26% said they felt misunderstood.
Meanwhile, young adults not enrolled in college report speaking with parents less often, yet their perceptions of mental health challenges were more closely aligned with their parents. Together, these findings suggest that how we communicate matters as much as how often. Prioritizing meaningful, two-way conversations that emphasize listening, empathy and understanding can make a meaningful difference.
  1. Encourage balanced use of AI
Digital tools are playing a growing role in how young adults and students manage their mental health. Nearly one-third (31%) of respondents reported using AI-based platforms to explore symptoms or find coping strategies, and 26% of those users said they’ve turned to these tools for companionship, reassurance or emotional support. While these resources can be helpful, they are most effective when used alongside guidance from qualified health care professionals.
  1. Help build awareness of trusted resources
Many young adults are unsure where to turn for help, which can be particularly true when they or their families are navigating mental health concerns for the first time. At the local level, community organizations, nonprofits and state-based services can provide accessible, often low- or no-cost support — from crisis lines to counseling and peer programs. Raising awareness of these options can make it easier to take the first step.
Health plans can also play a role in helping individuals understand and access available mental health support. For example, some insurers, including UnitedHealthcare, provide digital self-care tools, coaching and 24/7 support lines for in-the-moment assistance, as well as in-person and virtual care options.
 
Supporting mental health is not just a one-month focus — it’s a year-round priority. By improving communication, increasing awareness and helping young adults connect to care, we can better support their mental well-being when it matters most.
For more information on mental health resources, visit uhcsr.com or uhc.com.
May 08
1

MountainView Treats AFib Treated Without X-Rays

By | Featured, News

First Radiation-Free Afib Procedure Performed at MountainView Hospital

New technology enables treatment of atrial fibrillation without radiation exposure

MountainView Hospital performed its first radiation-free pulsed field ablation (PFA) procedure this morning to treat a patient with atrial fibrillation (AFib). The procedure was completed by Dr. Niuton Koide using advanced mapping technology and ultrasound without the use of X-rays.

This marks an important step forward in heart care, as traditional procedures typically rely on fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray imaging that exposes both patients and medical teams to radiation. By eliminating X-rays entirely, this new approach improves safety and reduces long-term health risks.

Pulsed field ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that treats AFib by using controlled electrical pulses to target the small areas of heart tissue causing an irregular heartbeat. Unlike older methods that use heat or extreme cold, this technology is more precise and helps protect surrounding tissue.

“This type of procedure takes a great amount of skill and precision,” said Dr. Koide. “Performing pulsed field ablation without fluoroscopy is an important advancement that allows us to improve safety while delivering effective care for our patients.”

In addition to benefiting patients, the zero-fluoroscopy approach improves working conditions for medical staff. Without the need for radiation, care teams no longer have to rely on heavy lead protective gear, helping reduce fatigue and long-term orthopedic strain.

“Achievements like this reflect the incredible skill of our physicians and their commitment to advancing care in our community,” said Alexis Mussi, CEO of MountainView Hospital. “We are proud to bring innovative, safer treatment options to our patients and continue improving the health of those we serve.”

AFib is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder and can cause symptoms such as a fast or irregular heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath and increased risk of stroke. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications including blood clots, heart failure and other heart-related conditions.

About MountainView Hospital:

MountainView Hospital is a state-of-the-art, full-service medical facility located in the heart of northwest Las Vegas. With a dedicated and talented staff of employees and outstanding physicians, MountainView Hospital is recognized for high patient satisfaction and for providing quality and compassionate care to our community since 1996. MountainView features nationally recognized programs including a top cardiovascular and thoracic center and integrated cardiology clinic, and the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Robotic Surgery. MountainView is the only hospital in Nevada to offer bone marrow transplants. The Sunrise Health Medical Education Consortium, based at MountainView, trains the next generation of physicians and surgeons for our community.

MountainView is a member of the respected Sunrise Health System consisting of Sunrise Hospital, Sunrise Children’s Hospital, Southern Hills Hospital and several surgery, diagnostic imaging, urgent care centers and three freestanding hospital based emergency rooms, offering a complete range of specialized and technologically advanced services.

May 07
1

UnitedHealthcare Empowers Expecting Parents

By | News

By Katie Nease, RN, Director of Clinical Quality

Pregnancy is often filled with anticipation and excitement—but it can also bring uncertainty, stress and a lot of questions. Many expecting parents want to do everything “right,” yet navigating care, finding resources and knowing where to turn for support can feel overwhelming.

No one should have to go through pregnancy or postpartum recovery feeling alone. Community plays a powerful role in easing anxiety, sharing knowledge and helping families feel supported during this life‑changing time.

Every expecting family deserves support, care, and recognition. You don’t have to know everything; just remember your community is there to help connect you to care, emotional support, and essentials when you need it.

Here are three meaningful ways expecting parents can lean on their community—before and after baby arrives.

1. Start With Early, Trusted Care

Early prenatal care helps set the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. If you notice changes like a missed period, nausea or fatigue, reaching out to a care provider early can help confirm. Providers can answer questions, work with you to develop a pregnancy care plan, and help connect families to additional support when needed.

Preparing for appointments with simple tools, such as a pregnancy checklist, can help reduce stress and make visits feel more manageable. If you don’t yet have a provider, contact your health plan, local health department or Medicaid office.

2. Lean on Community Organizations for Everyday Support

Support doesn’t stop at medical care and many families feel the strain of meeting everyday needs during pregnancy and once the baby is here. Community organizations play an important role in filling those gaps. Through partnerships with local public health agencies and trusted community groups, families can be connected to practical information, services and essential items such as diapers and wipes that help ease day‑to‑day pressures. These community‑based resources help families feel more prepared, supported and less overwhelmed during a time of significant transition.

3. Prioritize Postpartum Care and Emotional Well‑Being

Care doesn’t stop after birth. As part of your pregnancy timeline, scheduling a postpartum visit within three weeks, followed by a comprehensive checkup by 12 weeks, supports healing, mental health and overall wellbeing Pregnancy and postpartum recovery bring physical and emotional changes, and conditions like anxiety and depression are common and treatable. Being open with your provider and trusted loved ones about how you’re feeling can help you get the support and reassurance you deserve.

Help is here

Asking for help is a sign of strength. Support is available at every stage. Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid offers tools and resources to support families throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery. For more resources, visit everypregnancy.com for expert guidance and connections to local support.

Every pregnancy is different, but no one should feel isolated while navigating it. With care, community and compassion, families can feel supported every step of the way.