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Jun 01
1

SilverSummit Healthplan & Blueberry Pediatrics Launch Statewide Pediatric Virtual Care Benefit for Nevada Medicaid Families

By | Featured, News

SilverSummit Healthplan (SilverSummit), a managed care organization providing health insurance coverage to individuals and families across Nevada, and Blueberry Pediatrics today announced a new statewide partnership to provide unlimited 24/7 support from board-certified pediatricians to the plan’s Medicaid families in Nevada. This collaboration makes pediatric expertise more accessible and convenient while helping families avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department and urgent care.

Eligible SilverSummit members across Nevada will have access to Blueberry’s nationwide network of pediatricians through on-demand secure chat, video, and phone visits, available in English and Spanish, without additional co-pays or fees.  Enrolled families will also receive a Blueberry Medical Kit containing a digital ear scope (otoscope), pulse oximeter, and thermometer at no-cost to the member. These tools allow clinicians to remotely assess, diagnose, treat, and when necessary, prescribe medication for hundreds of common childhood illnesses, including ear pain, fevers, respiratory symptoms, rashes, and other acute concerns.

For many Nevada families, this new benefit brings greater peace of mind knowing a pediatrician is available whenever a concern comes up. Parents can get answers quickly when a child is sick or they need guidance, reducing the stress and uncertainty of deciding whether urgent or emergency care is necessary. For working parents, avoiding the need for an in-person visit means more flexibility when balancing jobs, childcare schedules, school pickup, and transportation. For rural and frontier communities, virtual care creates greater access where pediatric providers may be limited without traveling long distances. Together, these benefits help families get timely pediatric support when navigating childhood illness and everyday health concerns.

“At SilverSummit, we’re always looking for innovative ways to improve access and simplify the healthcare experience for our members,” said Sarah Fox, Plan Chief Operating Officer of SilverSummit Healthplan. “This partnership brings together convenience, high-quality care, and pediatric expertise, delivering support to families when and where they need it most. We’re proud to offer Nevada families a child healthcare benefit designed for the realities of everyday life.”

Unlike traditional telehealth models, Blueberry combines virtual visits with at-home diagnostic technology designed specifically for pediatric healthcare. The result is a more complete virtual care experience that gives clinicians the information they need to make informed decisions and gives parents greater confidence when caring for a sick child at home.

“Traditional pediatric access points often leave families with few practical options when a child is sick, leading them to default to higher-cost care settings,” said Rich Berner, Chief Executive Officer of Blueberry Pediatrics. “Together with SilverSummit, we’re introducing a new care alternative through a virtual-first model that gives families a simple, reliable way to connect with pediatric expertise while preventing avoidable ED utilization to reduce healthcare costs for the plan.”

The launch reflects SilverSummit’s ongoing commitment to delivering a more modern, family-centered healthcare and member experience for Medicaid children and their families across Nevada.

Eligible SilverSummit Healthplan Medicaid members can learn more and enroll beginning June 1 at https://lp.blueberrypediatrics.com/partner/silversummit.

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 or visit silversummithealthplan.com/caringforNV.

About Blueberry Pediatrics

Blueberry Pediatrics provides 24/7 virtual pediatric care delivered by board-certified pediatricians and in-home diagnostic clinical tools that enable real clinical assessment from anywhere. Blueberry partners with health plans to expand access, reduce avoidable emergency department utilization, improve health outcomes, and deliver timely, high-quality pediatric care for families.

Learn more at https://www.blueberrypediatrics.com/.

May 26
1

Health District Expands Diabetes Education with First Spanish Virtual Classes

By | News

Free program offers practical tools, nutrition guidance and support for managing diabetes

This June, the Southern Nevada Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion will expand access to diabetes education by launching its first virtual self-management classes in Spanish. Led by trained health educators, the free classes provide participants with practical strategies to manage diabetes, build healthier habits and lower the risk of serious health complications.

The virtual Spanish-language classes will be held via Microsoft Teams on June 22 and 29 from 10 a.m. to noon. Attendance at both sessions is required. The Health District also continues to offer virtual diabetes self-management classes in English, with upcoming classes set for June 3, 10 and 17 from 10 a.m. to noon. Classes are also open to people with prediabetes or at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as caregivers for people with type 2 diabetes. To register for the Spanish-language classes, go to Spanish Classes Registration Form. To register for English-language virtual or in-person classes, call (702) 759-1270 or complete the Diabetes Self-Management Interest Form.

“Managing diabetes can be challenging, but education and support can make a meaningful difference in a person’s health,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “By offering these classes virtually and in Spanish, we are helping more members of our community gain access to the tools, resources and guidance they need to take control of their health and reduce their risk of serious complications.”

Diabetes affects millions of Americans and is linked to several serious long-term health conditions. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death in the United States in 2024. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also identifies diabetes as a leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations and adult blindness.

More than 40 million people in the United States have diagnosed diabetes, including 11 million people who are undiagnosed. Each year, an estimated 1.5 million Americans are newly diagnosed with diabetes.

In Clark County, approximately 238,000 people — 12.8% of the adult population — were living with diabetes. Statewide, an estimated 304,000 Nevada adults (11.9%) were diagnosed with the condition. Diabetes prevalence in Clark County was higher among multiracial (26.1%), Hispanic (15.3%), and Black (11.9%) adults compared with white adults (10.2%). Similar disparities were observed in Clark County for prediabetes, with higher prevalence among Hispanic (19.1%) and Black (16.7%) adults compared to White adults (15.4%).

The American Diabetes Association estimates that about 816,000 Nevada adults — roughly 1 in 3 — are living with prediabetes, placing them at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes if the condition is not identified and addressed. However, many people with prediabetes remain undiagnosed.

Early screening and healthy lifestyle changes, including increased physical activity, improved nutrition and modest weight loss when appropriate, can help prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Self-management education programs can also help individuals better manage their condition and overall health.

The Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion offers diabetes self-management and prevention classes throughout the year at the Main Public Health Center, 280 S. Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107, and online.

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.

May 22
1

Teachers Health Trust Offers Behavioral/Mental Health Services at No Cost

By | News

According to U.S. Department of Education, approximately 60% of educators report frequent job-related stress and roughly 20% report symptoms of depression.

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and Teachers Health Trust (THT), the nonprofit health insurance plan for educators in Clark County, Nevada, is leading the way with the behavioral and mental health care services offered through its Health Investment Network that provide members with in-person and virtual therapy sessions at no cost and with no limit to the number of therapy visits.

Clark County educators getting the mental health care they need
Thanks in part to no out-of-pocket cost to members for an unlimited number of therapy visits when utilizing THT’s Health Investment Network for issues like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders, one in five THT members are utilizing THT’s behavioral health services—exceeding the health insurance industry standard of one in seven.

More mental health providers than ever before
In less than a year, more than 1,000 behavioral health providers joined the broader THT network, resulting in THT members now having access to more than 2,800 behavioral health providers across Clark County. Local providers in the Health Investment Network include Las Vegas Valley Mental Health, Healthy Minds, Clearwater Counseling, Nevada Mental Health, Aspire Behavioral Services and MDLive.

“Access to affordable behavioral and mental health care services is extremely important, especially among educators who are facing more stress in their jobs and personal lives, now than ever before,” said Tom Zumtobel, CEO of Teachers Health Trust. “While other industries see only about 15 percent of their populations seeking behavioral health care, THT has seen utilization rise to nearly 22 percent of our members, meaning we are helping our members get the care they need for their mental health.”

Dr. Ken McKay with Healthy Minds, a participating provider, added, “THT’s approach to behavioral and mental health care is a great benefit to educators in Clark County, and in fact, it is a model for all the health care industry. Research has shown that making mental health care more accessible and affordable prevents severe crises, improves physical health, reduces overall health costs, and boosts economic productivity.

Zumtobel also noted that THT members who access behavioral health services are staying engaged in care, averaging about 11 visits per patient compared to the industry average of less than 10 visits per patient.

About Teachers Health Trust
In October 1983, the Clark County School District (CCSD) and Clark County Education Association (CCEA) collaborated to establish the Teachers Health Trust (THT) as the health plan for its educators. It is a self-funded, nonprofit health insurance plan available to all CCSD (and other partner charter schools) educators and their dependents in Clark County, Nevada. For more information visit: www.ththealth.org.

May 21
1

Comprehensive Cancer Adds of Five New Advanced Practice Providers

By | News

Comprehensive Cancer Centers announced the addition of five highly skilled advanced practice providers to its multi-disciplinary team. These appointments include board-certified family nurse practitioners Cherie Allison, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC; Maddie Scheurich, MSN, APRN, FNP-C; Becca Rowe, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC; Stacey Cunningham, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC; and physician assistant Zach Dixon, MPAS, PA-C.

Cherie Allison joins Comprehensive’s Northwest treatment center with 21 years of experience in oncology and hematology. Allison is a multi-instrumentalist who values empathy and trust, previously serving as a registered nurse team leader in Kansas before joining the practice in 2014. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and holds multiple certifications in chemotherapy, biotherapy, and oncology nursing.

Maddie Scheurich is an advanced practice registered nurse serving patients at Comprehensive’s Southwest and Summerlin locations. Originally from Salt Lake City, Scheurich rose from an oncology medical assistant to a registered nurse specializing in chemotherapy and immunotherapy administration. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Rocky Mountain University in Utah and is a member of the Oncology Nursing Society.

Becca Rowe brings her expertise to the Comprehensive Lung Center in Summerlin as an advanced practice provider.
With over a decade of specialized nursing experience, Rowe spent nearly ten years with Comprehensive in various leadership roles, including infusion and charge nurse. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University and utilizes a wellness-oriented, evidence-based approach to patient care.

Stacey Cunningham brings nearly 20 years of diverse nursing experience to Comprehensive’s Central Valley – Twain location. Her background spans multiple specialties including critical care, emergency medicine and cardiac services. Cunningham earned her Master of Science in Nursing with an executive leadership focus from Chamberlain University and advocates for a holistic approach to healthcare.

Zach Dixon, a Las Vegas native, joins the team as a floating advanced practice provider, supporting the practice across its various locations. Dixon earned his Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. His well-rounded clinical training includes internal medicine, general surgery and emergency medicine, combined with a commitment to providing compassionate, coordinated care throughout every stage of the cancer journey.

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.

May 21
3

Small Nutrition Changes, Big Health Impacts for Older Adults

By | Featured, News
By Dr. Lien Hoang, UnitedHealthcare
As we head into the warmer months, it’s a natural time to reevaluate our nutrition and fitness routines. There’s no better time than now to take stock of our daily habits and recommit to the healthy choices that support long-term well-being, starting with what’s on our plates. For older adults especially, nutrition isn’t just about energy or weight goals; it plays a vital role in preventing and controlling conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
The ABCs of Chronic Disease
Chronic diseases are widespread in the U.S., especially among older adults. Recent research found that 93% of U.S. adults age 65 and older live with at least one chronic condition, and nearly 80% have two or more.
According to the latest America’s Health Rankings Senior Report, chronic diseases account for six of the top 10 causes of early death nationally among adults ages 65 to 74—including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. In Nevada, 49% of Medicare beneficiaries in this age bracket are managing multiple chronic conditions.
Despite these numbers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers an important insight: most chronic diseases stem from a few key habits, such as a poor diet, tobacco use, drinking too much alcohol, or physical inactivity.
The encouraging news is that many of these risk factors are largely within our control—and making positive changes to your daily habits can go a long way toward protecting your overall health.
Nutrition Is the Key
You’ve likely seen plenty of fad diets that promise dramatic results, from slashing cholesterol levels to shedding extra pounds before summer. But when it comes to long-term health, the goal isn’t a quick fix—it’s managing or preventing chronic disease through balanced, healthy eating over time.
A more sustainable approach is to focus on simple, evidence-based eating habits rather than following the latest trend. Patterns that emphasize fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and limited sodium and added sugars are associated with better heart health, blood sugar control, and overall well-being.
These principles are flexible, realistic and can be adapted to personal preferences, cultural traditions, and individual health needs, making them easier to maintain for the long haul.
Putting Healthy Eating into Practice
For most people, overhauling your entire diet overnight isn’t necessary—or realistic. Lasting change comes from small, consistent steps that make healthy eating more manageable. Here are some simple ways to get started:
  • Plan balanced meals: Planning ahead can help you stay on track. Aim to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, a quarter with whole grains, and a quarter with lean protein—a simple, balanced approach recommended by health professionals.
  • Incorporate more fiber-rich foods: Beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables support digestion while also helping manage heart health and blood sugar.
  • Stay hydrated: Choose water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps you feel your best and can prevent mistaking thirst for hunger.
  • Watch portion sizes: Using smaller plates or bowls can make it easier to manage portions while still enjoying a variety of foods.
  • Read nutrition labels: Look for options lower in sodium, added sugars, and unhealthy fats to support heart and overall health.
Managing chronic diseases can feel overwhelming, but every positive choice counts. By making nutrition a priority throughout the year, we can take meaningful steps toward better health, more energy, and improved quality of life. If you have specific health concerns, consider working with your health care provider to create a nutrition plan that’s right for you.
For more information or for ideas on healthy eating plans, check out UnitedHealthcare’s nutrition and healthy eating resources.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine.
May 19
3

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
3

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
2

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.