HEALS News

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.

The men’s team, current Division I National Champions in the American Collegiate Hockey League and reigning Western Collegiate Hockey League champions, brought much more than hockey-themed goodie bags. They brought laughter, energy and a whole lot of heart.

The players visited children in three different units, including the Pediatric ICU and our Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU). They knelt beside beds, played mini “hockey,” jumped into games and truly met the kids where they were. For a while, they weren’t champions on the ice—they were just big kids themselves, creating joyful moments and offering a much-needed distraction during a hospital stay.

As Nevada’s largest and most comprehensive children’s hospital, and home to the state’s only congenital heart program, Sunrise Children’s Hospital is so grateful for community partners like UNLV Hockey who show up in meaningful ways and help brighten our patients’ days.

Comprehensive Cancer Centers (Comprehensive) has announced the addition of fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologists, Diana Hung, DO and Gabriela Doyle, MD, to its specialized breast surgery division. Both surgeons are now seeing patients at the practice’s Breast Surgical Office located at 3131 La Canada St. in Las Vegas.

Dr. Diana Hung is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist. She joins Comprehensive with a focus on delivering accessible, personalized care guided by the latest clinical research. Dr. Hung previously served as administrative chief resident at the Sunrise Health GME Consortium in Las Vegas, where she demonstrated significant leadership and a commitment to medical staff wellness.

Dr. Hung earned her medical degree from the Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, California. She completed her general surgery residency at Sunrise Health GME Consortium and subsequently completed a prestigious breast surgical oncology fellowship at the University of Illinois, Chicago. She is an active member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association.

Dr. Gabriela Doyle is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist who returns to serve the community where she was raised. Dr. Doyle is dedicated to supporting patients throughout their entire journey from diagnosis through survivorship, combining modern surgical techniques with a deep respect for individual patient values. During her training, she served as the general surgery representative for the Graduate Medical Education Committee at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and currently serves as a mentor for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Association of Women Surgeons.

Dr. Doyle completed both her Doctor of Medicine and her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at the University of Nevada, Reno. She completed her internship and residency in general surgery at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV before undergoing advanced fellowship training in Breast Surgical Oncology at Columbia University in New York. She is a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association.

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 100 FDA-approved cancer therapies. For more information, visit the company’s website at http://www.cccnevada.com, and follow the practice on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) announced its 2026 Board of Directors, welcoming new members and confirming the full board slate, approved during the LVGEA Board of Directors Annual Meeting on November 6, 2025.

The LVGEA Board of Directors is a diverse group of public and private sector leaders united by a shared commitment to building a stronger future for all Southern Nevadans. Together, the board advances an ambitious regional economic development strategy focused on strengthening the Las Vegas region’s economy, creating high paying jobs, and driving long term capital investment.

As the largest business board of its kind in Nevada, the LVGEA Board plays a critical role in shaping the region’s economic direction by bringing together leaders from across industries, jurisdictions, and institutions to support collaboration, growth, and opportunity throughout Southern Nevada.

“Southern Nevada is at an important economic inflection point, and this board reflects the leadership needed to advance our efforts and capitalize on opportunity,” shares Danielle Casey, LVGEA President & CEO.  “With deep expertise across industries and a shared commitment to regional collaboration, our directors help ensure LVGEA is actively driving investment, job creation, and long-term economic resilience for our region.”

“The LVGEA Board represents what is possible when public and private sector leaders come together around a shared vision. This group is deeply committed to strengthening our regional economy, creating quality jobs, and ensuring Southern Nevada continues to compete and win on a global stage,” states Lauri Perdue, LVGEA Board Chair.

Introducing the New 2026 LVGEA Board Members

• Akosa Akpom
  Vice President of Analytics and Insights, TKO
  Akosa Akpom leads the Analytics and Insights group for UFC and its parent organization, TKO, supporting data driven strategies that enhance fan engagement, brand partnerships, and growth initiatives worldwide. His work has helped shape major media rights agreements and redefine audience engagement through research and analytics.
• Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater
  Acting President, Nevada State University
  Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater is a recognized leader in higher education and economic development. She was appointed by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents to serve as Acting President on October 17, 2025.Dr. Lopez Lasater has been pivotal in shaping and executing the University’s vision and has contributed to its strategic planning and external partnerships, specifically as a leading architect of the SMART Growth Initiative which envisions the development of the University’s 450 acres of vacant land in southeast Henderson. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Nevada State Campus Lands Corporation, a body chartered to guide the development and expansion of the University’s Henderson campus.
• Dr. Stacy Klippenstein
  President, College of Southern Nevada
  Dr. Stacy Klippenstein leads the largest community college in Nevada, serving more than 45,000 students annually. With more than three decades of experience in higher education leadership, he is deeply committed to student success, workforce readiness, and strong partnerships between education and industry that support the region’s economic vitality.
• John Penhollow
  President of Business Operations, Vegas Golden Knights
  John Penhollow brings a national sports and entertainment perspective to the board, with prior executive leadership roles in the NFL and Major League Baseball. His experience spans revenue strategy, corporate partnerships, and the development of world class sports facilities that drive economic impact and community engagement. 
• Jose Bustamante
  President, Nevada Region for Howard Hughes
  Jose Bustamante oversees real estate strategy and development for the Howard Hughes Nevada Region, including the nationally recognized Summerlin master planned community. With more than 20 years of experience in large scale commercial and mixed-use development, his leadership supports sustainable growth and long-term regional planning.
• Philip Potamitis
  Nevada Market Head, Western Alliance Bank
  Philip Potamitis serves as Nevada Market Head for Western Alliance Bank, supporting commercial, industrial, real estate, and gaming banking operations across the state. With more than 30 years of experience across multiple industries, he brings deep financial expertise and insight into Southern Nevada’s business environment.
• Steven Peralta
  Chief Strategic Officer, Touro University
  Steven Peralta brings extensive experience in philanthropy, healthcare leadership, and community engagement. He previously served as President of the Nevada Donor Network Foundation, where he helped raise more than $12 million to support the establishment of a transplant institute in Nevada. His background includes senior leadership roles in healthcare education and fundraising, as well as service on community advisory and public health boards.

2026 LVGEA Board of Directors

The following reflects the full 2026 LVGEA Board of Directors, including organization and term expiration. For biography information for all LVGEA Board members, visit https://lvgea.org/lvgea-board-of-directors/.

• Akosa Akpom, UFC, 12/31/2027

• DeAndre Esteen, Barclays, 12/31/2026

• Dr. Kumud Acharya, Desert Research Institute, 12/31/2027

• Brian Kleven, Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospitals, 12/31/2026

• Brian Wolf, Manpower, 12/31/2027

• Bryant Thornton, Republic Services, 12/31/2027

• Christina Erling, Barrick, 12/31/2027

• Denette Suddeth, PNC Bank, 12/31/2027

• Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater, Nevada State University, 12/31/2027

• Dr. Chris Heavey, UNLV, 12/31/2026

• Dr. Stacy Klippenstein, College of Southern Nevada, 12/31/2026

• Frank Martin, Martin Harris Construction, 12/31/2027

• Greg Gilbert, Holland and Hart, 12/31/2027

• Ivan Ferraz, Wells Fargo Bank, 12/31/2027

• Jackie Van Blaricum, HCA Healthcare Far West Division, 12/31/2026

• Jaime Cruz, Workforce Connections, 12/31/2027

• Mayor Joe Hardy, City of Boulder City, 12/31/2027

• John Penhollow, Vegas Golden Knights, 12/31/2027

• John Bailey, Bailey Kennedy, 12/31/2027

• John Cannito, The PENTA Building Group, 12/31/2027

• John Entsminger, Las Vegas Valley Water District, 12/31/2027

• Jose Bustamante, Howard Hughes, 12/31/2026

• Justin Carley, Las Vegas Raiders, 12/31/2027

• Justin Jones, Clark County, 12/31/2026

• Karen Haller, Southwest Gas Holdings, 12/31/2027

• Karlos LaSane II, Caesars Entertainment, 12/31/2027

• Kevin Schiller, Clark County, 12/31/2027

• Kim Sonerholm, UnitedHealthcare, 12/31/2026

• Lauri Perdue, University of Phoenix, 12/31/2027

• Marc Badain, The Athletics, 12/31/2026

• Mary Beth Sewald, Vegas Chamber, 12/31/2026

• Michael Bonner, Greenberg Traurig, 12/31/2027

• Mayor Michelle Romero, City of Henderson, 12/31/2027

• Mike Janssen, City of Las Vegas, 12/31/2026

• Mike Olson, Olson Precast Company, 12/31/2027

• Miles Dickson, Nevada Grant Lab, 12/31/2026

• Mitch Cloward, Intermountain Health, 12/31/2026

• Molly Hamrick, Coldwell Banker Premier Realty, 12/31/2026

• Nikki Fargas, Las Vegas Aces, 12/31/2026

• Philip Potamitis, Western Alliance Bank, 12/31/2027

• Dr. Renee Coffman, Roseman University, 12/31/2026

• Robert Lewis, Lewis Management Corp., 12/31/2027

• Scott Muelrath, Henderson Chamber of Commerce, 12/31/2026

• Shannon Petersen, Nevada State Bank, 12/31/2027

• Shelley Berkley, City of Las Vegas, 12/31/2026

• Stephanie Garcia Vause, City of Henderson, 12/31/2026

• Steve Westerman, Cox Business, 12/31/2027

• Steve Zanella, MGM Resorts, 12/31/2027

• Steven Peralta, Touro University, 12/31/2027

• Tom Burns, Governor’s Office of Economic Development, 12/31/2026

• Tom Power, Sunshine Minting, 12/31/2026

• Tony Sanchez, NV Energy, 12/31/2026

• Wes Adams, Western States Contracting, 12/31/2026

LVGEA extends its sincere appreciation to each board member for their service and commitment to advancing Southern Nevada’s economic future.

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About Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance

The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) is a public-private partnership dedicated to growing the economy of the Las Vegas region through intentional business attraction, expansion, and connectivity. LVGEA has been designated as one of eight Regional Development Authorities (RDA) in Nevada by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) for 2025-2026.

To learn more, visit Lvgea.org.

Dr. Nicole Brady, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare Student Resources

For many, the holiday season provides a unique opportunity to pause from daily responsibilities and focus on the people who matter most. While gift-giving and festivities are often the center of celebrations, the true value of the season lies in nurturing meaningful connections with friends, family, and community. Research shows that strong social ties are associated with improved mental and physical health, making connection powerful and lasting gifts we can share.

Additionally, UnitedHealthcare’s recent College Student and Graduate Behavioral Health Report found that 60% of college students reported that they or a peer encountered a behavioral health concern over the past year, far more than most parents believe. This gap underscores why intentional connection may matter now more than ever.

Here are a few ways to help foster connection during the holidays:

1. Engage in Intentional Conversations: High-quality conversations, actively listening, asking open-ended questions, and validating feelings, may reduce stress and build resilience. Research finds that strong communication supports both emotional well-being and strengthens relationship quality. For young adults especially, data highlights that those who talk more frequently with their parents about mental well-being report feeling more supported, understood, and connected. Taking time to ask thoughtful questions and truly listen may make a lasting difference this season.
2. Revisit or Create Traditions: Shared rituals and traditions, whether large or small, may help promote belonging and strengthening of family bonds as routines and traditions may provide structure, enhance resilience, and support children’s mental health. Therefore, consider reviving old traditions or creating new ones, such as cooking together, storytelling or neighborhood walks.
3. Reach Out to Those Who May Feel Lonely: Loneliness and isolation are linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety. The holidays can be particularly difficult for those living alone or far from friends or family. A phone call, card or small gesture of inclusion may help someone feel remembered and cared for.
4. Move Together: Physical activity supports both body and mind, and it’s even more powerful with friends. Research shows that exercise in general reduces stress, boosts mood, and strengthens focus, while group activities, such as walking with others, may also sharpen memory and thinking skills. Whether it’s a walk, run, or casual game, shared movement creates space for conversation, laughter, and healthy connection during the holiday season.
5. Utilize Support Resources: If you or a loved one finds the holiday season overwhelming, remember that help is available. Talking with a primary care provider or a mental health professional can be an important first step in addressing stress, loneliness, or other concerns. For everyday support, digital tools and virtual resources through your health plan may also provide convenient ways to help boost well-being. For example, some insurers such as UnitedHealthcare offer Calm Health, virtual behavioral coaching, and 24/7 in the moment support lines. Checking in with these resources can help you or your family members feel more supported and connected throughout the season.

The holidays are about more than gifts or busy schedules. They are a reminder of the power of human connection. Whether through meaningful conversations, family traditions or leaning on available resources, even small acts of connection can leave a lasting impact and help make this season brighter for ourselves and those around us.

The care teams at Sunrise and Sunrise Children’s Hospital wore pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month — honoring survivors, supporting those currently fighting, remembering those lost and inspiring hope for a cure.

The Breast Center at Sunrise Hospital is using this month to remind women age 40 and older about the importance of scheduling annual mammograms. With approximately one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, early detection through routine breast health checkups can save lives.

TO SCHEDULE A 3D MAMMOGRAM:
Call 1-855-445-2246
Breast Center at Sunrise Hospital
3131 La Canada St., Suite 101
Las Vegas, NV 89169

WHY:
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder for women to prioritize their health. The best way to reduce risk is through a combination of:

• Regular mammograms
• Routine breast exams by a healthcare professional
• Monthly self-breast exams

The Breast Center at Sunrise Hospital — the only Accredited Breast Center in Southern Nevada by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) — offers advanced 3D digital mammograms for superior breast cancer detection.

About Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center
Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center offers high-quality, patient-centered healthcare to the residents of Southern Nevada, its surrounding region, and the millions of visitors that come to Las Vegas. Sunrise Hospital serves as Nevada’s largest acute care facility and Level II Trauma Center, just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. Occupying the same campus is Sunrise Children’s Hospital, Nevada’s largest, most comprehensive children’s hospital. Together, both facilities offer a full range of services for both children and adults.

About Sunrise Children’s Hospital
Sunrise Children’s Hospital is the largest, most comprehensive children’s hospital in Nevada that also serves the surrounding region and millions of visitors that come to Las Vegas. Sunrise Children’s Hospital offers a full range of specialized services, including Nevada’s only pediatric heart surgery program and Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU), a dedicated Pediatric Emergency Department and the largest Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in the Nevada. Sunrise Children’s Hospital is located on the same campus as Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center – Nevada’s largest acute care facility.

The Sunrise Health System Invites the Community to Join the Wave of Light Ceremony in Observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day

Event Hosted at Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center in Memory of Lost Loved Ones

The Sunrise Health System invites the public and media to participate in a deeply meaningful ceremony in observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. The Wave of Light Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, October 15, from 6:45 pm to 7:30 pm at Southern Hills Hospital’s tranquil Healing Garden, 9300 W. Sunset Road, Las Vegas, NV 89148 located between the hospital and medical office building 9280.

This global event honors families who have experienced the loss of a baby. Participants worldwide will join in a Wave of Light, creating a unified remembrance through candle lighting at 7:00 pm in every time zone. At Southern Hills Hospital, this will be a time for quiet reflection and support, with special moments dedicated to prayer, readings and a heartfelt moment of silence.

“This ceremony offers a moment of unity, solace and healing for our community members who have faced the unimaginable loss of a child,” said Jackie Van Blaricum, president of the Sunrise Health System. “Through this gathering, we hope to honor their memories and comfort those who grieve.”

About Sunrise Health System:
The Sunrise Health System, which includes Sunrise Hospital, Sunrise Children’s Hospital, MountainView Hospital and Southern Hills Hospital, is the largest provider of complex care in the state of Nevada. We employ almost 8,000 Nevadans and last year alone we invested $190 million dollars in capital investment locally. In 2024, we admitted 92,000 patients throughout our four hospitals and six freestanding emergency rooms. Our overall system of care is made up of 50 sites across the Las Vegas valley, including specialty clinics, urgent care centers and outpatient facilities.

The Sunrise Health System is committed to developing our local healthcare workforce through programs like the Sunrise Health Medical Education Consortium and Galen College of Nursing to train the next generation of clinicians so that our community has access to world class care close to home. Sunrise Health System and its hospitals in Nevada are proud to be part of HCA Healthcare, a global leader with 190 hospitals and more than 2,400 care sites across 20 states and the United Kingdom. Our scale and reach allow the Sunrise Health System to leverage advanced technology, cutting-edge research and evidence-based medicine to advance patient care.
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The Southern Nevada Community Health Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) operated by the Southern Nevada Health District, joins health centers across the country in recognizing National Health Center Week from August 3-9. The annual observance highlights the essential role community health centers play in improving access to affordable, high-quality health care for underserved populations.

Community health centers play a vital role in the U.S. health care system, delivering care to more than 32.5 million people nationwide. This includes 419,000 veterans, one in eight children, 1.4 million people experiencing homelessness and 3.8 million seniors. Today, one in 10 Americans receives care at a health center. Of those patients, 18% are uninsured and 50% are insured by Medicaid. Community health centers are innovators and problem solvers that improve health outcomes in medically underserved communities by reaching people excluded from the conventional health care system. The Southern Nevada Community Health Center continues to meet those needs through expanded services, improved access and a commitment to patient-centered care.

“Health centers like ours are more than just places to receive care—they are trusted partners in building healthier communities,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “We are proud to support patients in every stage of life and to be a safety net for those who might otherwise go without care.”

Client Giveaways

As part of National Health Center Week, the Southern Nevada Community Health Center will host events to engage the community and recognize patients and staff. Giveaways will be available for patients while supplies last at both Community Health Center locations:

• Southern Nevada Community Health Center (Main site): 280 S. Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107
• Fremont Public Health Center: 2380 E. Fremont St., Las Vegas, NV 89104

Booster Seat Giveaway Event

On Wednesday, August 6, from 9 to 11 a.m., the Fremont Public Health Center will host a back-to-school booster seat event. A media availability will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. during the event.

The event will raise awareness about Nevada’s booster seat law, which requires children to remain in booster seats until they are 4 feet 9 inches tall. While many children outgrow a car seat by age 4, most are not tall enough for a seat belt alone until at least the third grade. Booster seats will be available for free while supplies last, and certified car seat technicians will be on site to help families understand when it is safe to transition from a booster seat to a seat belt.

The event is supported by the Healthy Living Institute at UMC, Car Seats for Christy – founded in memory of a child killed in a crash more than 20 years ago – and Safe Kids Clark County, which has led statewide car seat safety efforts for more than three decades. A limited supply of childhood vaccines will also be available for children ages 4 to 6, who are uninsured or enrolled in Medicaid, on a first-come, first-served basis.

“National Health Center Week is a time to recognize the patients we served and the dedicated team working every day to remove barriers to care,” said Randy Smith, FQHC Chief Executive Officer for the Health District. “Our health centers play a vital role in protecting and promoting the health of our communities, and we remain committed to delivering inclusive, compassionate and high-quality care.”

About the Southern Nevada Community Health Center

The Health District operates two FQHC locations: the Southern Nevada Community Health Center at its main site on Decatur Boulevard and the Fremont Public Health Center. Together they offer services including primary care, family planning, comprehensive HIV care through the Ryan White Program, behavioral health, sexual health, refugee health, pharmacy, telehealth and enabling services. In 2024, the Community Health Centers served 11,501 patients with 29,574 total patient encounters, and 55.13% of visits were provided to uninsured patients. To ensure care remains accessible, services are offered on a sliding fee scale that adjusts costs based on income and federal poverty levels. In 2024, the sliding fee scale saved patients more than $4.8 million on health care costs, ensuring no one was turned away due to an inability to pay.

As part of its ongoing efforts to meet community needs, the Southern Nevada Community Health Center expanded its behavioral health clinic at the Decatur location over the past year. The clinic now provides therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management and substance use counseling, with services offered in person and via telehealth. It also recently launched a support group for people living with HIV who receive care through the Ryan White Program. Last fiscal year, the number of behavioral health visits increased by 39%. In 2024, the Health Center served 546 patients through its behavioral health services, reflecting the growing demand for accessible mental health care in Southern Nevada.

For more information about the Southern Nevada Community Health Center, go to www.snchc.org. For information about National Health Center Week, visit https://healthcenterweek.org/about-nhcw/.

The Southern Nevada Health District continues its schedule of free diabetes self-management, education and support classes, offered in English, Spanish, in-person and online.

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 about 300,000 people, were living with diabetes. In Nevada, approximately 380,000 people—11.9% 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.

The Health District is currently accepting registrations for in-person classes in May and June:

Spanish:
May 12 and 19, 10 a.m.—noon

English:

June 18 and 25, 9 am—11 a.m.

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.