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Jan 24
1

ER at South Summerlin Hosting Sneak Preview & February 3 Opening

By | News

The ER at South Summerlin, an extension of Summerlin Hospital, will host a community sneak peek on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. featuring tours, giveaways, visits by area mascots and refreshments. The event is designed to showcase the ER’s capabilities, giving area residents the opportunity to preview the facility before opening to serve medical emergencies.

Located at 10290 W. Flamingo Road, the ER at South Summerlin is near Hualapai Way and just east of the Clark County Fire Station 35. It will be open for 24-hour emergency care every day of the year. It will be staffed with the same types of medical personnel, including emergency medicine physicians, nurses and techs, and equipped with the same diagnostic technology that is available at the Summerlin Hospital’s main emergency department.

Diagnostic capabilities include an on-site laboratory, CT scanner and imaging equipment, along with multiple treatment rooms, exam rooms, a decontamination room with shower and entrances for both walk-in patients and ambulance arrivals.

Following the community sneak peek, the ER at South Summerlin will open for patient care on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 8 a.m. The team will be able to care for patients of all ages, from infants to centenarians.

“We are looking forward to providing increased access to emergency care to friends and neighbors in south Summerlin and neighboring communities,” said Rob Freymuller, CEO of Summerlin Hospital and, by extension, the ER at South Summerlin. “While we anticipate many patients can be treated and released from the ER, residents can have peace of mind knowing they can be transferred to Summerlin Hospital for additional pediatric and adult medical needs, whether it’s advanced cardiac care or additional care in our Children’s Medical Center.”

Additional Details

ER at South Summerlin

10290 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89144

Main Number: 702-545-3501

www.summerlinhospital.com

It is the first freestanding emergency department operated by Summerlin Hospital.

The ER at South Summerlin represents the ninth freestanding emergency department within The Valley Health System. The others include:

Elite Medical Center, an extension of Valley Hospital

ER at Blue Diamond, an extension of Spring Valley Hospital

ER at Cadence, an extension of Henderson Hospital

ER at Desert Springs, an extension of Valley Hospital

ER at Green Valley Ranch, an extension of Henderson Hospital

ER at North Las Vegas, an extension of Valley Hospital

ER at Valley Vista, an extension of Centennial Hills Hospital

ER at West Craig, an extension of Centennial Hills Hospital

About Summerlin Hospital
Summerlin Hospital is a member of The Valley Health System, a network of acute care and specialty hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, outpatient services and physician practices, caring for patients throughout Southern Nevada and surrounding communities. Located in the master-planned community of Summerlin, the hospital offers emergency care, advanced cardiovascular care, women’s health, comprehensive maternity services, a level III neonatal intensive care unit, a children’s medical center, surgical services, oncology care for adults and children, and specialty programs in stroke, chest pain, advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, and outpatient therapy services for adults and children.

Jan 23
1

UnitedHealthcare Shares Ways to Stay Healthy in Cold Weather

By | Featured, News

As a significant cold snap grips the nation and our state,  staying safe and warm can be a challenge no matter where you live. UnitedHealthcare shares five simple tips to help Southern Nevadans prevent and identify cold-related illnesses and staying safe and healthy during extreme cold and winter storms. Take a look, and be sure to share these insights with friends and family:

  1. Cold temperatures don’t actually make you sick

People often think winter weather makes them sick, but the temperature isn’t to blame. While some research suggests the influenza virus may survive better in colder, drier weather, other factors are at play. Winter lifestyles usually mean spending more time inside in close quarters with others who may be sick, which makes it easier to contract things like the flu or a cold.

Consider these tips that may help strengthen your resistance to wintertime illness:

  • Get the flu shot – the CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu shot, with rare exception. To find a flu shot location near you, visit UHCFluLocator.com.
  • Consider the COVID shot as well. You can get the flu and COVID-19 shots at the same time, along with additional vaccinations.
  • The CDC also recommends a RSV vaccine for people 60 and older, as well as another option, a monoclonal antibody injection, to help protect babies and toddlers up to 2 years old.
  • Eat healthy foods – fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients and vitamins like vitamin C, which is good for your immune system.
  • Exercise – it can also help boost your immune system to better defend against infections.
  • Get enough sleep – adults 18-64 should get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
  • Wash your hands – it helps remove germs and prevent infections.
  1. You don’t lose most of your body heat through your head

If you’ve been yelled at as a kid for running outside without a hat on, it was probably justified with the fact that most of your body heat escapes through your head – but it’s not true. Heat loss really depends on what body part is exposed. It’s still recommended to wear a hat when outdoors, because prolonged exposure to cold temperatures may lead to frostbite or hypothermia.

To help avoid the risk of your core body temperature dropping below 95 degrees, be sure to wear:

  • A hat
  • A scarf or mask that covers your face and mouth
  • A water-resistant coat
  • Mittens or gloves
  • Several layers of loose-fitting clothing
  • Water-resistant boots
  1. Lack of sunlight isn’t the only reason for SAD

The cold dreary winter months can bring on feelings of sadness, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). But it’s not just due to the lack of sun. Wintertime can mean busy schedules, family stress and holiday spending, which all can trigger SAD.

If you think you have SAD, talk to your doctor. They will do a thorough evaluation and may offer medical treatment options. Consider trying some lifestyle and home remedies to help reduce stress and improve your mood:

  • Brighten your environment. Open your blinds to let some natural sunlight into your home.
  • Practice mindfulness. Yoga and meditation may help reduce your stress to help you cope with SAD.
  • Go outside. Enjoy the fresh air by taking a walk or simply sitting outside. Even when it’s cold, bundling up and being surrounded by  nature almost immediately affects stress and may improve wellness.
  • Exercise regularly. Your body will release endorphins, which help fight stress and can trigger positive feelings in your body.
  1. Don’t jump into a hot bath after being freezing cold

Your first instinct after coming in from the cold may be to get warm as fast as you can. But avoid jumping into a scorching hot tub too soon, as it may cause a rapid drop in blood pressure if your body temperature fluctuates too quickly – which could make you feel faint or even become unconscious.

Instead, allow your body to gradually warm up. Throw on some more layers, a pair of fuzzy socks or slippers and cuddle up by the fire with a toasty seasonal drink.

  1. Understand the difference between a cold and a flu

The common cold and the flu are both upper respiratory infections. However, they are caused by different viruses, and the symptoms may be more severe with the flu virus versus a cold.

Remember that symptoms alone may not be enough to tell the difference between the two.

  • More than 200 viruses can cause a common cold (rhinovirus is the most common)
  • The seasonal flu is caused by the influenza A or B virus. This is why a vaccine is available for the flu and not for colds.

Facts about the common cold

  • Colds are usually milder than the flu.
  • People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose.
  • Symptoms usually include sneezing, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, watery eyes, headache, and fatigue.
  • Symptoms usually last for 7 to 10 days and may last up to 2 weeks.
  • Colds usually do not result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, infections, or hospitalizations.

Facts about the flu

  • The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus.
  • The flu tends to occur in the colder months of the year.
  • Symptoms of the flu are worse than the common cold and may include fever, chills, sore throat, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children).
  • Fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common with the flu and more intense than when associated with a cold.
  • The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated annually.
Jan 22
2

SilverSummit Healthplan and Partners Launch Nye County Medical Maternity Home Program

By | Featured, News

Medical Maternity Pilot Home Program Designed to Improve Maternal and Prenatal Care Access for High-Risk Pregnancies in Rural Counties

To kick off National Maternal Health Awareness Day on Jan. 23, SilverSummit Healthplan, Nevada Health Centers, High Risk Pregnancy Center and Hera Women’s Health are announcing the launch of a program aimed at improving access to maternal and prenatal care for high-risk pregnancies in the city of Pahrump, in Nye County. The program expects to start seeing patients in late 2025.

Named the Medical Maternity Home Program, this collaborative effort will involve coordinated patient care and outreach, while leveraging maternal-fetal medicine; obstetrician-gynecologists; advanced practitioners; behavioral health providers; community health workers; Women, Infants, and Children services; and telehealth services to reach affected pregnant women in Nye County.

“We are grateful for SilverSummit’s vision, support, and partnership as we prepare to launch this program in Pahrump,” said Nevada Health Centers CEO Walter Davis. “Right now, women who are expecting must travel long distances to get prenatal care. This can be expensive and time consuming, and by offering OB services locally, in tandem with primary care and other wrap-around care, we keep people in their communities, getting the care they need and deserve.”

Pahrump has approximately 49,000 residents, including 8,000 women of reproductive age (15 to 50 years old). Access to comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care is severely limited, with the nearest facilities more than 60 miles away, creating significant barriers to timely and consistent care. *Key statistics include:

· In 2023, Pahrump recorded 344 live births with a preterm birth rate of 13.4% (national average: 10.4%), scoring an F on the March of Dimes Preterm Birth report card.

· The infant mortality rate is 8.22%, compared to the national average of 5.8%.

· Nye County is classified as a maternity care desert with limited access to care.

“Nye County is a maternity care desert, meaning that there are an insufficient number of maternity care providers,” said Dr. Steven Evans, chief medical officer for SilverSummit Healthplan. “This scarcity in maternity providers results in pregnant women needing to travel long distances to receive prenatal and postpartum care, which contributes to poor birth outcomes such as pre-term birth and low birth weight.”

“Our goal with the Medical Maternity Home Program is to bring together a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure every mother and baby in rural Nevada has access to the high-quality care they deserve,” said Dr. Brian Iriye, president of Hera Women’s Health. “By fostering partnerships and utilizing innovative solutions, we aim to overcome the challenges faced by underserved communities and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes across the region.”

The Medical Maternity Health Program will:

· Provide prenatal care and monitor pre-term birth rates.

· Implement evidence-based protocols to enhance quality and ensure proper maternal-fetal medicine referrals by following national guidelines and protocols. It will also utilize, SilverSummit Healthplan’s Project Guardian, which tackles the provider shortage by enabling remote health monitoring statewide. Using a cloud-based system, healthcare providers can track patient health via a synced app. If an issue arises, a nurse is alerted to coordinate care. This initiative integrates technology to enhance patient accessibility and care.

· Provide on-site consistent maternal care and obstetrical services at least two days a month.

· Provide maternal-fetal medicine consultation (in-person and or via telemedicine), high level fetal ultrasound, behavioral health (telemedicine), and treatment for opioid use disorder (telemedicine).

· Provide professional education (obstetrical emergencies) to family practice physicians and clinical support staff.

Nevada Health Centers will utilize its existing office space in Pahrump and provide complex case management delivered by registered nurses to at-risk women. The High Risk Pregnancy Center and Hera Women’s Health will provide various prenatal services, including ultrasounds, genetic counseling, behavioral health as appropriate by provider level, and delivery services. Funding for the Medical Maternity Health Program will be provided by the Centene Foundation, which will allocate $1 million over three years; an additional $100,000 will be provided by SilverSummit Healthplan.

For more information on the Medical Maternity Health Program, please contact 702.563.4600.

*Data sourced from United States Census Bureau; March of Dimes; American College of Physicians, Annuals of Internal Medicine 2020: Volume 172; Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)

About SilverSummit Healthplan
SilverSummit Healthplan (SilverSummit) is a managed care plan that provides health insurance to the people of Nevada. Established in 2017, SilverSummit exists to improve the health of its members through focused, compassionate and coordinated care. SilverSummit is a Centene Corporation company. For more information, visit www.silversummithealthplan.com.

About Centene Foundation
Centene believes that successful corporate citizenship is defined by investments in community-based institutions and organizations that address the needs of communities while advancing initiatives that focus on inclusion, the whole person, and community development.

Since 2004, the Centene Charitable Foundation has sought to make a difference in the communities we serve by investing in innovative programs and services that embrace all populations regardless of ability, age, race or economic status. Centene believes in treating the whole person, not just the physical body. That belief inspires us to support community partners that bring the arts, education, and health and social services to every population regardless of barriers that may exist.

About Nevada Health Centers
Established in 1977, Nevada Health Centers (NVHC) is a non-profit, Federally Qualified Health Center program dedicated to providing access to quality healthcare throughout Nevada. NVHC operates 20 health centers; five mobile programs, including the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, Mammovan, Nevada Children’s Health Project, Mobile Medical Services, and Mobile Dental Services; and seven Women, Infants, and Children offices in southern Nevada. Our core services include family medicine, dentistry, behavioral health, and pharmacy, and we accept Medicaid, Medicare, Nevada Check Up, and most private insurances. We also offer a sliding-fee discount program based on family size and income. For more information, visit www.nvhealthcenters.org.

About High Risk Pregnancy Center
At the High Risk Pregnancy Center in Nevada, we are devoted to protecting the health of mothers-to-be and their unborn babies. As obstetric subspecialists, our highly trained and experienced maternal fetal medicine (MFM) doctors offer the most advanced testing and treatment options available for reducing pregnancy risks. In fact, our team has been on the leading edge of MFM (also known as perinatology) for more than two decades. Since then, we’ve introduced many new capabilities in Nevada and have made a substantial contribution to the modern standard of MFM care. Today, we still lead the way in technology, procedures, and commitment to the women in our care and their unborn babies. Learn more about the High Risk Pregnancy Center.

Jan 21
1

The Just One Project Unveils Nevada’s First-Ever Mobile Grocery Store

By | News

The Just One Project is unveiling Nevada’s first-ever Mobile Grocery Store, which will travel throughout Las Vegas, offering nutritious and affordable groceries to residents living in food deserts where access to fresh whole foods is severely limited. The Mobile Grocery Store marks the next stage of an impactful, multi-year long partnership between The Just One Project and UnitedHealthcare Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid, which opened three no-cost community markets and launched the innovative Groceries on the Go Program.

The Mobile Grocery Store also marks a new partnership between the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) and The Just One Project, that will address food insecurity among veterans by increasing accessibility to healthy food.

Powered by NV Energy Foundation, the Mobile Grocery Store offers all the amenities one would come to expect at a full-service store. Set inside a school bus generously donated by the Clark County School District, the interior has been completely renovated to include refrigeration and storage. Groceries on the Go currently services 11 sites throughout Las Vegas and is expected to expand its service to more communities in 2025.

About The Just One Project
The Just One Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves 23,000 Southern Nevadans monthly who are facing food insecurity, through mobile and client-centric grocery distribution of fresh produce and pantry essentials. The Just One Project also provides wraparound services and self-development programs to help its clients on their journey to self-sufficiency. The organization’s operational model is designed for flexibility and scalability, allowing The Just One Project to nimbly meet the needs of the community as demand grows and shifts. To learn more, visit www.TheJustOneProject.org

Jan 21
1

Intermountain Health Announces Children’s Hospital Architects

By | News

Architect Firms For Nevada’s First Comprehensive Stand-alone Children’s Hospital Announced

Intermountain Health today announced Shepley Bulfinch and Gensler as the two architect firms who will design the upcoming stand-alone children’s hospital in southern Nevada.

The announcement marks a crucial step after the location was unveiled in October at UNLV’s Harry Reid Research and Technology Park.

“The selection of these two firms is a celebration as Intermountain conducted an extensive analysis to bring a state-of-the-art comprehensive children’s hospital here to Nevada,” said Lawrence Barnard, Intermountain Health AVP of Pediatrics in Nevada. “Shepley Bulfinch and Gensler both have very impressive backgrounds in designing healthcare facilities around the globe. Our goal of bringing essential specialty care to children, keeping families in state for care, is taking shape for our community.”

The team of Shepley Bulfinch and Gensler approached the Nevada Children’s Hospital with a singular commitment: improving outcomes for patients and their families. The firms share the belief that a patient-centered design approach produces the best environment for not only the patients but also their families, their clinicians, and the hospital staff.

Shepley Bulfinch brings deep experience in pediatric healthcare design to this project. With a strong focus on patient and family centered solutions, the firm understands how spaces and systems influence patient and staff journeys, as well as daily operations. Drawing on its extensive portfolio, including 10 million square feet of recent healthcare projects — 4 million of which are dedicated to pediatric facility design — Shepley Bulfinch tailors environments to meet the unique needs of children of all ages, from toddlers to teens and their families. Shepley Bulfinch’s approach prioritizes improved outcomes, productivity, and adaptability, addressing the wholistic well-being of patients in ever-evolving pediatric hospital settings.

“Design approaches must manage anxiety, reduce stress, and promote normalcy for patients and their families through an appropriate sense of scale and need for privacy so potentially intimidating spaces are infused with timeless design and a sense of fun,” said Shepley Bulfinch Principal Andre Kamili, AIA. “We are thrilled to bring this thinking to families throughout the Las Vegas community.”

Gensler has offices globally as well as in Las Vegas and has major projects completed around the city.

“The Nevada Children’s Hospital is not just a much-needed addition to the healthcare landscape in Las Vegas, and the state of Nevada, but an opportunity to inform and quantify new ideas and approaches to pediatric healthcare,” said Candra Mathis, Managing Director of Gensler Las Vegas. “In partnership with Shepley Bullfinch and Intermountain Health, Gensler is thrilled to bring our comprehensive knowledge of Las Vegas and our deep cross-disciplinary experience to this exciting project, all in service of improving pediatric healthcare delivery and outcomes.”

“This hospital will greatly reduce strain on families already burdened by emotionally and physically challenging health conditions,” added Barnard. “Nevada’s children deserve to receive comprehensive care close to home.”

Construction, although very important, is just one part of the project. The clinical planning, organization, children’s health initiatives, and other workstreams needed for an undertaking of this magnitude began years ago, workforce planning (including sustainable recruitment), and more.

Intermountain operates two children’s hospitals in Utah, known for their high-quality, compassionate care.

Intermountain Health also offers patient care at more than 65 clinic locations across southern Nevada. With its extended provider network, Intermountain Health delivers patient-centered primary, specialty, and urgent care services to approximately 350,000 southern Nevadans in Clark and Nye counties.

Learn more about Intermountain Health and follow the progress at intermountainhealth.org.

About Intermountain Health
Headquartered in Utah with locations in six states and additional operations across the western U.S., Intermountain Health is a not-for-profit system of 34 hospitals, approximately 400 clinics, medical groups with some 4,600 employed physicians and advanced care providers, a health plans division called Select Health with more than one million members, and other health services. Helping people live the healthiest lives possible, Intermountain is committed to improving community health and is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare by using evidence-based best practices to consistently deliver high-quality outcomes at sustainable costs.

About Shepley Bulfinch
Shepley Bulfinch is a women-led national architecture and design firm. Founded in 1874, the firm has an award-winning legacy of challenging convention, pioneering visionary design ideas, and collaborating with clients who seek to drive measurable change. Shepley Bulfinch architects and designers are regarded for their expertise in tackling complex projects, especially in education, healthcare, and urban development.
Visit shepleybulfinch.com to learn more.

About Gensler
Gensler is a dynamic and collaborative design firm uniting creativity, research, and innovation to solve the world’s most pressing problems. Our healthcare work, encompassing more than 900 buildings over the past decade, demonstrates the impact that informed and purposeful design has on the positive transformation of healthcare spaces. With a balanced focus on user experience and operational needs, we work with our clients to create spaces that enrich communities and drive remarkable outcomes. Founded in 1965, Gensler has built a team of 6,000 professionals working in over 100 countries each year. Everything we do is guided by our mission: to create a better world through the power of design. Visit us at www.gensler.com

Jan 17
1

Health District Urges Precautions Amid High Respiratory Illness Activity in Clark County

By | News

The Southern Nevada Health District is urging residents to take precautions as respiratory illness activity, including flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), remains high throughout Clark County.

Seasonal flu activity is increasing and remains elevated across most of the United States. As of Dec. 28, 2024, the Health District reported 438 influenza-associated hospitalizations and seven deaths for the 2024-2025 flu season (October through May). During the same period last season, the Health District reported 294 influenza-associated hospitalizations and 13 deaths. Community wastewater surveillance as of Jan. 8, 2025, shows moderate concentrations of the virus that causes COVID-19 and high concentrations of RSV and influenza A in Clark County.

The Health District recommends people take the following steps to protect themselves and others:

  • Get Vaccinated: Safe and effective vaccines are available for flu, COVID-19, and RSV (for those eligible for the RSV immunization).
  • Wash Your Hands: Wash hands frequently with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.
  • Seek Treatment: Effective treatments are available for flu and COVID-19. Treatment is especially recommended for individuals at higher risk of severe illness and can help reduce the risk of hospitalization and death.

In addition, people who are sick should stay home and avoid contact with others. Those who are immunocompromised should take extra precautions in public, such as wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask.

Testing is another prevention strategy that can assist individuals in making decisions to further protect themselves and others. Free, COVID-19 self-test kits are available at sites throughout Clark County, including Laughlin and Mesquite. For more information and locations, go to www.snhd.info/covid-testing.

More information about the respiratory illnesses currently circulating is available at CDC|About Respiratory Illnesses. To make an appointment to get vaccinated at a Health District immunization clinic, go to www.snhd.info/immunizations.

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.

Jan 17
1

Comprehensive Cancer Centers Earns Ninth Consecutive Accreditation From American College of Radiology

By | News

The American College of Radiology (ACR) awarded a three-year term of accreditation to the Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada (Comprehensive) Radiation Oncology Division. Comprehensive has received the accreditation for nine consecutive three-year terms. The most recent renewal extends the division’s accreditation through January 1, 2028.

The ACR awards accreditation to select facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer review evaluation. Board-certified physicians and medical physicists conduct the evaluations, assessing the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR’s Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report. The accreditation is the highest standard awarded to radiation oncology practices.

Comprehensive’s Radiation Oncology Division comprises five of its 14 treatment centers. The locations with radiation include the Northwest treatment center, located on Peak Drive near MountainView Hospital; the Summerlin Radiation/CyberKnife treatment center, located on the Summerlin Hospital Medical Center campus; the Southwest treatment center, located on the Southern Hills Hospital campus; the Central Valley treatment center, located on South Eastern Avenue near Flamingo Road; and the Henderson treatment center, located on the St. Rose Dominican Hospital – Siena Campus.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 39,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

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 40 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 100 FDA-approved cancer therapies. For more information, visit the company’s website at https://www.cccnevada.com

Jan 17
1

Cleveland Clinic Hosts 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration

By | News
Cleveland Clinic celebrated the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a virtual celebration for caregivers and community members. Since 1992, the health system has held its Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration to remember the civil rights leader who devoted his life to fighting for racial equity and social change.
The annual tribute was co-hosted by Tom Mihaljevic, M.D., CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic and the holder of the Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair, and Vickie Eaton Johnson, Executive Vice-President and Chief Community Officer.
This year, Cleveland Clinic honored Dr. King by focusing on food equity and addressing how communities can overcome barriers to ensure access to nutritious food. The program’s theme was inspired by his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, where he said: “I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits.”
Nearly 60 years later, Dr. King’s vision for food justice is still relevant today. Black and other minority communities are disproportionately affected by food insecurity. For example, according to the USDA, more than 9 million Black Americans cannot access enough food to lead a healthy, active life.
“Food is a cornerstone of good health,” Dr. Mihaljevic said. “In a world of plenty, no family should be unable to feed their loved ones. No child should ever go hungry.”
Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America – the nation’s largest charity – delivered the keynote address. With a nationwide network of over 200 food banks and 60,000 meal programs, Feeding America aims to provide people with access to food without judgment or stigma.
Under Babineaux-Fontenot’s leadership, the organization expanded its food bank network, tackled challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, and addressed hunger’s root causes. Her collaborative efforts with corporations, government agencies, and grassroots groups have improved access to fresh, culturally relevant food for millions while boosting efficiency and fundraising.
During her keynote address, Babineaux-Fontenot reflected on Dr. King’s commitment to addressing food injustice, urging community partners to uphold his legacy by uniting in the continued effort to end hunger.
“In this country, nearly 50 million people are experiencing hunger right now, nearly 14 million of whom are children,” Babineaux-Fontenot said. “Those numbers may feel daunting, but they shouldn’t. Because of partnerships like the one we already have with Cleveland Clinic and with so many others across the country, we are making progress.”
“At Cleveland Clinic, we believe we have a role in nurturing healthy communities which includes providing access to healthy foods,” Johnson said. “And we cannot do it alone. We have worked diligently to build a broad coalition of partners with hospitals, businesses, elected officials, non-profits, and neighbors.”
Most recently, the hospital partnered with Meijer on the opening of a grocery market in Cleveland’s Fairfax neighborhood, which was a food desert for more than 50 years. Other efforts to address food insecurity include:
  • Establishing community food pantries at Akron General, Marymount, and South Pointe Hospitals, as well as the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Health Center.
  • Partnering with Aramark and Morrison Healthcare to provide food vouchers and grocery delivery for pediatric and pregnant patients across Northeast Ohio.
  • Supporting the expansion of the nonprofit House of Hope’s production farm in Martin County, Florida, which offers free produce to local residents.
  • Teaming up with Children’s Hunger Alliance to provide weekend meals to preschoolers in Cleveland.
  • Collaborating with local and global partners to organize food distributions across the health system’s U.S. and international locations.
The event also included a musical performance by violinist Obie Shelton, and remarks from Monica Yepes-Rios, M.D., Director of Community Health Equity and Food as Medicine at Cleveland Clinic.
To watch the full program, visit clevelandclinic.org/2025mlkcelebration.
About Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland Clinic is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. Cleveland Clinic is consistently recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for its expertise and care. Among Cleveland Clinic’s 77,000 employees worldwide are more than 5,658 salaried physicians and researchers, and 19,000 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,699-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 23 hospitals, more than 275 outpatient facilities, including locations in northeast Ohio; southeast Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2022, there were 12.8 million outpatient encounters, 303,000 hospital admissions and observations, and 270,000 surgeries and procedures throughout Cleveland Clinic’s health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 185 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org. Follow us at twitter.com/ClevelandClinic. News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org.
 
About the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, which opened in 2009, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body, frontotemporal and other dementias; Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, multiple system atrophy and other movement disorders; and multiple sclerosis. With locations in Cleveland, Ohi; Weston, Florida, and headquarters in Las Vegas, Nevada, the center offers a continuum of care with no-cost opportunities for the community to participate in education and research, including disease prevention studies and clinical trials of promising new medications. An integrated entity, Keep Memory Alive, raises funds exclusively in support of the Nevada location. clevelandclinic.org/Nevada.
Jan 17
1

Desert Hope Treatment Center Appoints Two New Senior Leaders to its Patient Care Team

By | News

Desert Hope Treatment Center has appointed two new leaders to its patient care team: Kimberlee Guerrero as Director of Nursing and Ariann Chelli as Clinical Director. Guerrero and Chelli bring to their new positions a combined 20+ years of experience in behavioral health and a passion for treating individuals struggling with substance use and mental health disorders.

“Ariann and Kimberlee have proven track records for exceptional patient care, and we are eager to witness their success in their new roles,” said Kristin Berg, Executive Director of Desert Hope. “We are also thrilled for the opportunity to promote Kimberlee from within the organization, as she is a respected leader who has earned the trust of her colleagues and patients at Desert Hope.”

Kimberlee Guerrero is a seasoned nursing professional who brings to the Director of Nursing role over a decade of nursing experience and a strong background in clinical operations and patient management. Kimberlee’s commitment to nursing excellence has led to numerous promotions during her tenure at Desert Hope; she began her journey with the organization as a staff nurse and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as a charge nurse, house supervisor, and most recently, Assistant Director of Nursing.

Ariann Chelli, LCSW, LCADC, brings to her position as Clinical Director an extensive background in mental health and addiction services. She earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Louisiana State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her career has been marked by a steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals dealing with complex challenges, guiding them on their journey to recovery.

The appointment of Guerrero and Chelli to their new roles reflects Desert Hope’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality addiction treatment and mental health services. “Ariann and Kimberlee have demonstrated time and again their dedication to individuals struggling with the disease of addiction. We are confident that their leadership will elevate our already strong clinical and nursing services to new heights,” said Berg.

About Desert Hope Treatment Center:
Desert Hope Treatment Center, an American Addiction Centers facility, is a leading provider of addiction treatment services in Las Vegas, NV. The center offers a full continuum of care for addiction and co-occurring disorders, as well as a specialized treatment program for Veterans. Desert Hope Treatment Center is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate treatment to individuals struggling with addiction. To learn more, visit their website.

Jan 15
1

Health District Offers Free Diabetes Classes

By | Featured, News

Programs offer education, support, recipes and other resources

As the new year gets underway, the Southern Nevada Health District begins its schedule of free diabetes self-management, education and support classes, offered in English, Spanish, in-person and online. The 2025 schedule of classes starts in mid-January.

Diabetes ranks as the eighth leading cause of death in the United States and is the primary cause of kidney failure, lower limb amputations and blindness. Individuals with diabetes are also at an increased risk of severe complications from flu and COVID-19. In 2023, 12.8% of adults in Clark County, or 238,102 people, were living with diabetes. In Nevada, approximately 283,700 people—11.3% of the state’s adult population—have been diagnosed with the condition. Nationwide, more than 38 million Americans have diabetes, with 8.7 million unaware of their diagnosis, putting their health at greater risk. Each year, an estimated 1.2 million Americans are newly diagnosed with diabetes.

The Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion offers diabetes classes throughout the year at the Main Public Health Center, 280 S. Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107. Facilitated by trained health educators, participants learn how to manage their blood sugar, stay physically active and adopt healthier eating habits.

District Health Officer Dr. Fermin Leguen said the classes provide personalized services to help people manage diabetes. He said, “Participants can learn valuable, practical skills to fit diabetes care into their lives, while discovering what works best for their health.”

The Health District is currently accepting registrations for in-person classes that run through mid-May:

English:

February 19 and 26: 10 a.m.–noon

March 19 and 26: 10 a.m.–noon

May 15 and 22: 10 a.m.–noon

Spanish:

January 22 and 29: 10 a.m.–noon

February 20 and 27: 2-4 p.m.

March 17 and 24: 10 a.m.–noon

April 15 and 22: 2-4 p.m.

May 12 and 19: 10 a.m.–noon

To register, call (702) 759-1270, email gethealthy@snhd.org or complete the Diabetes Self-Management Interest Form. Registration for Spanish-language classes is available at the Viva Saludable website.

To learn more about diabetes resources in Southern Nevada, go to Get Healthy Clark County|Local Diabetes Resources or Viva Saludable|Recursos locales para la diabetes. For information about additional classes, events and programs offered by the Health District, visit the Get Healthy Clark County Community Calendar.

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.