1860
1861 The territory of Nevada is established a year after the Comstock Lode is discovered near the future Virginia City. Census of Washoe County: 1,005 in Washoe Valley, 608 in Steamboat and Truckee valleys combined.
1862 Where it all began
After a small pox outbreak in the settlement of Watson’s Mill near the center of population in Washoe Valley, county commissioners levy a property tax for a hospital fund that brings medical services to the community.
After a small pox outbreak in the settlement of Watson’s Mill near the center of population in Washoe Valley, county commissioners levy a property tax for a hospital fund that brings medical services to the community.
1863 President Lincoln gives his famous Gettysburg Address
Renown President and CEO Jim Miller dresses as Abe Lincoln at this year’s Employee Service Awards to celebrate just how long the organization has been a part of our community.
Renown President and CEO Jim Miller dresses as Abe Lincoln at this year’s Employee Service Awards to celebrate just how long the organization has been a part of our community.
1864 A place to call home
The first hospital building is a former printing office and is purchased for $1000 from the hospital fund.
Happy Nevada Day!
Nevada officially becomes a state on October 31, 1864.
The first hospital building is a former printing office and is purchased for $1000 from the hospital fund.
Happy Nevada Day!
Nevada officially becomes a state on October 31, 1864.
1868 The biggest little city is born
Reno is founded on May 9 on the Truckee River along the line of the Central Pacific Railroad as its construction moves eastward. The town is named after Civil War general Jesse Reno.
Reno is founded on May 9 on the Truckee River along the line of the Central Pacific Railroad as its construction moves eastward. The town is named after Civil War general Jesse Reno.
1870
1872 All aboard!
The Virginia & Truckee Railroad connects Reno with Carson City and Virginia City.
The Virginia & Truckee Railroad connects Reno with Carson City and Virginia City.
1874 It’s all about the tea.
A Nevada State Journal reporter visits the hospital and writes, “…We found one old lady in the Hospital who made some complaint in regard to her room being uncomfortable during the past cold weather, and also that she was unable to get any good tea.”
A Nevada State Journal reporter visits the hospital and writes, “…We found one old lady in the Hospital who made some complaint in regard to her room being uncomfortable during the past cold weather, and also that she was unable to get any good tea.”
1875 40 acres of land is purchased at Kirman Ave. and Mill St. to build a new hospital. Upon completion, the beautiful two story hospital building costs $7,000. A physician, Dr. Bishop, and hospital steward, Mr. DD Bowen, are hired.
1876 After a visit to the new hospital, a reporter for the Reno Evening Gazette shares the types of afflictions being treated: “…There are nine patients, eight men and one woman, afflicted as follows: consumption, 2; typhoid fever, 2; hurt by accident, 2; blind, 1; chilblain, 1; senility, 1.”
1880
1880 Learn more about nursing from a nurse’s perspective. Read first person journal entries representing what nurses have experienced and done for patients over past decades.
1883 How did hospital food get such a bad rap?
A reporter from the Daily Nevada State Journal visits the hospital and writes, “…They [the patients] have the best of food, and there is not a private family in Reno that is blessed with purer milk, whiter bread, juicier roasts, fresher eggs or plumper chickens, as well as every known vegetable.”
A reporter from the Daily Nevada State Journal visits the hospital and writes, “…They [the patients] have the best of food, and there is not a private family in Reno that is blessed with purer milk, whiter bread, juicier roasts, fresher eggs or plumper chickens, as well as every known vegetable.”
1885 Go Pack!
The University of Nevada is relocated to Reno from Elko, where it had opened in 1874.
The University of Nevada is relocated to Reno from Elko, where it had opened in 1874.
Can you hear me now? - The first installation of the telephone is made by Francis Jardine Bell, sixth governor of Nevada and cousin to Alexander Graham Bell. It is used in the Virginia City mines for communication between the workers underground and on the surface. At this time the hospital provided care to miners injured on the job.
1890
1900
1900 Hi Ho Silver!
Gold and silver are discovered in Tonopah, bringing another boom to the state and Reno area.
Gold and silver are discovered in Tonopah, bringing another boom to the state and Reno area.
1903 Growing to meet the community’s needs
The hospital is at full capacity with 40 patients and expansion is in the works. The Reno Evening Gazette reports, “…Many applications are made daily for admittance but unless the person is seriously injured or very sick it is denied, but in all cases medicine is furnished to those who need it.”
The hospital is at full capacity with 40 patients and expansion is in the works. The Reno Evening Gazette reports, “…Many applications are made daily for admittance but unless the person is seriously injured or very sick it is denied, but in all cases medicine is furnished to those who need it.”
Fact or Fiction: the hospital was the origin of the rousing song, “99 bottles of beer on the wall”?
A 1903 Reno Evening Gazette reads, “…No sooner had he [hospital superintendent Joseph Odett] left the hospital grounds when trouble commenced. The windmill blew down and now the patients at the hospital drink beer instead of water.”
A 1903 Reno Evening Gazette reads, “…No sooner had he [hospital superintendent Joseph Odett] left the hospital grounds when trouble commenced. The windmill blew down and now the patients at the hospital drink beer instead of water.”
A work of art – Reno Evening Gazette
In 1904 a new hospital building is completed. “The structure, to say the least, is a work of art and is a credit not only to this county but to the entire State as well…The dining rooms, for the patients and attendants, are large and well lighted. The operating room, physician’s office, matron’s apartments, closets, etc., are nice enough to satisfy the most fastidious.”
In 1904 a new hospital building is completed. “The structure, to say the least, is a work of art and is a credit not only to this county but to the entire State as well…The dining rooms, for the patients and attendants, are large and well lighted. The operating room, physician’s office, matron’s apartments, closets, etc., are nice enough to satisfy the most fastidious.”
1910
1913 Reno Board of Health announces smallpox has been eradicated in Reno. While sporadic cases still existed, there are no more quarantined residences locally. At its height, the number of local cases reached 28 – 30.
1918 Did you get your flu shot?
This year proved disastrous for the Reno area. By November, there was an average of 3.33 deaths a day from influenza. Today, an annual flu shot and basic hand-washing are the best ways to prevent the flu.
This year proved disastrous for the Reno area. By November, there was an average of 3.33 deaths a day from influenza. Today, an annual flu shot and basic hand-washing are the best ways to prevent the flu.
1920
Hindsight is 20/20 – In response to previous epidemics, an isolation hospital is built in 1922 for patients with infectious diseases. The new building & equipment costs $35,000. The Nevada State Journal writes that the commissioners believe, “…the facilities now at hand will be sufficient to handle any other epidemics which may come in the future.”
1929 The winning jingle in a contest to give Reno a slogan for the arch was “The Biggest Little City in the World.”
1930
1930 Good riddance!
The decade marked Reno’s notoriety as the divorce and marriage capital of the country. Couples elope to Reno to marry without delay and divorcees toss their wedding rings into the Truckee River.
The decade marked Reno’s notoriety as the divorce and marriage capital of the country. Couples elope to Reno to marry without delay and divorcees toss their wedding rings into the Truckee River.
1933 The hospital goes through a hiring spree, bringing on 24 doctors, including its first female physician, Dr. Alice Thompson.
1940
1942 World War II creates a shortage of available nurses and doctors for the hospital due to so many answering the call to serve in the military.
1943 Today as the region’s trauma center, Renown routinely prepares for crisis response. During WWII, the hospital created a blood bank to prepare for potential mass casualties by a possible enemy sneak attack.
1945 Maida Pringle is appointed Superintendent of Nursing and elevated to joint superintendent of the hospital. She is the namesake of today’s Pringle Way.
1947 Making the best of a tough situation
To provide temporary relief from crowding in the hospital, twelve Quonset huts were bought from the Navy for $275 each. The huts housed employees and provided needed patients wards for pediatrics and patients with rheumatic heart disease.
To provide temporary relief from crowding in the hospital, twelve Quonset huts were bought from the Navy for $275 each. The huts housed employees and provided needed patients wards for pediatrics and patients with rheumatic heart disease.
1949 What do you do when you can’t afford a hospital administrator?
Harold Smith, Sr., owner of Harold’s Club, gives the community its first professional hospital administrator, Clyde Fox, by paying a portion of the salary out of his own pocket.
Harold Smith, Sr., owner of Harold’s Club, gives the community its first professional hospital administrator, Clyde Fox, by paying a portion of the salary out of his own pocket.
1949 With a booming population in Washoe County of nearly 50,000 citizens, the hospital opens the first Pediatrics Unit.
1950
You’ve come a long way, baby!
In the 50s, doctors and nurses are featured as spokespersons for cigarettes. Today, we know that tobacco-related diseases are the leading cause of preventable death killing 440,000 people each year. Renown Health facilities are proud to be completely smoke and tobacco free.
In the 50s, doctors and nurses are featured as spokespersons for cigarettes. Today, we know that tobacco-related diseases are the leading cause of preventable death killing 440,000 people each year. Renown Health facilities are proud to be completely smoke and tobacco free.
In 1950, the hospital introduces the first Cardioscope in the region allowing doctors to better visualize the internal structure of the heart.
1951 The hospital introduces the first iron lung to northern Nevada for use in treatment of polio. The polio epidemic peaked in 1953 and the hospital became the major polio treatment center in the state.
In 1955 the hospital offers the region’s first incubator.
Training the Best in the West
In 1956 the hospital opens a school of practical nursing. Today Renown provides nursing faculty for University of Nevada, Reno and Truckee Meadows Community College.
In 1956 the hospital opens a school of practical nursing. Today Renown provides nursing faculty for University of Nevada, Reno and Truckee Meadows Community College.
1956 We can’t believe it either
Margene Bufkin joins the hospital as a nurse’s aide. Today Margene is a scrub tech in Labor and Delivery. Our hats are off to Margene for her 55 remarkable years of service…and counting.
Margene Bufkin joins the hospital as a nurse’s aide. Today Margene is a scrub tech in Labor and Delivery. Our hats are off to Margene for her 55 remarkable years of service…and counting.
1960
1960 That’s Amore!
The Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley filled the emergency room with Italian, Spanish and Swedish skiers suffering severe fractures and concussions. Interpreters were brought in to assist with communication between the athletes and physicians. One athlete/interpreter pair fell in love during the hospital stay and later married.
The Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley filled the emergency room with Italian, Spanish and Swedish skiers suffering severe fractures and concussions. Interpreters were brought in to assist with communication between the athletes and physicians. One athlete/interpreter pair fell in love during the hospital stay and later married.
1964 Washoe County exceeds 84,000 residents and the hospital expands to 300 licensed beds.
1969 While Joan Baez and The Who were performing at Woodstock, a hospital patient receives the first pacemaker in our region to manage abnormal cardiac rhythms.
1970
1971 The hospital establishes the first cancer treatment center in northern Nevada beginning a lasting commitment to provide local cancer treatments, technologies and expertise that often are only seen in much larger cities.
1973 Washoe County exceeds 121,000 residents. A seven-story 160-bed tower is added. The hospital’s capacity reaches 529 beds.
1973 The hospital establishes its first cardiac intensive care unit. Later in the decade, the area’s first cardiac catheterization and open-heart surgery were performed. By 1979, the hospital is the site of the first placement of peripheral vascular stents and the use of intrarterial thrombolytics in northern Nevada.
In 1973 the hospital opened the area’s first Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Today’s advanced NICU cares for 400 babies every year. Additionally, the neonatal transport team brings infants with serious complications from outlying communities within a 200-mile radius of Reno.
1975 Prediction: Nursing uniforms will be half tops and short shorts by 1980.
A 1975 hospital newsletter shows staff modeling nursing attire from the 1800s. Included is a prediction of RN uniforms for the 1980s. Locally, permission to wear pants was granted for nurses after “much discussion.”
A 1975 hospital newsletter shows staff modeling nursing attire from the 1800s. Included is a prediction of RN uniforms for the 1980s. Locally, permission to wear pants was granted for nurses after “much discussion.”
1976 In the 70s, the hospital’s first Radiation Therapy department was established and first CT scanner in northern Nevada is introduced.
1979 The University Of Nevada School of Medicine establishes a residency program at the hospital. In 2010, Renown supported 83 residents in internal medicine, family practice and psychiatry, in addition to seven fellows in child and adolescent psychiatry, sports medicine, geriatrics and obstetrics.
1980
1980 Difficult to forget
On Thanksgiving afternoon, Priscilla Ford steered her black 1974 Lincoln onto the crowded sidewalks of downtown Reno killing six people and injuring 23 others. Fourteen people were transported to the hospital.
On Thanksgiving afternoon, Priscilla Ford steered her black 1974 Lincoln onto the crowded sidewalks of downtown Reno killing six people and injuring 23 others. Fourteen people were transported to the hospital.
1980s To the disappointment of Nair, scrubs become regular attire for nurses industry-wide.
While nursing uniforms have changed over the years, this pivotal decade saw the dramatic transition from the skirts of years past to pant suits, and eventually scrubs.
1981 The region’s first coronary angioplasty is performed at the hospital.
1983 The hospital initiates same-day surgery.
1984 A pregnancy center is established to ensure prenatal care is available to any expectant mother, regardless of ability to pay. In 2010, there were nearly 20,000 visits for obstetrical and prenatal care to The Pregnancy Center.
1984 The first and only ultrasound scanner in northern Nevada was introduced at the hospital.
1985 Difficult to forget
A Galaxy Airline charter plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Reno. All six crew members and 64 of 65 passengers died. The survivor, George Lamson, 17, was treated at the hospital.
A Galaxy Airline charter plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Reno. All six crew members and 64 of 65 passengers died. The survivor, George Lamson, 17, was treated at the hospital.
1985 Heart in hands
The hospital transitions to a private, not-for-profit health network. That same year the hospital is designated northern Nevada’s Children’s Miracle Network hospital.
The hospital transitions to a private, not-for-profit health network. That same year the hospital is designated northern Nevada’s Children’s Miracle Network hospital.
1987 The hospital is designated the first accredited Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Care program in northern Nevada.
1988 Hometown Health Plan forms as a not-for-profit health maintenance organization, offering affordable and complete health coverage to fully insured employer groups. Today Hometown Health’s 84,000+ members receive coverage to a large provider network, including Renown Health affiliated physicians and services.
1988 Strength in difficult times
The hospital is selected to be the region’s only Level II Trauma Center providing services between Sacramento and Salt Lake. Since then, our community has seen plane crashes, bus accidents, train wrecks, fires, shootings, and more. In 2010, Renown Regional treated more than 81,000 emergency and trauma patients.
The hospital is selected to be the region’s only Level II Trauma Center providing services between Sacramento and Salt Lake. Since then, our community has seen plane crashes, bus accidents, train wrecks, fires, shootings, and more. In 2010, Renown Regional treated more than 81,000 emergency and trauma patients.
1990
1993 The art of medicine
First introduced to celebrate the link between emotional and physical health, today’s Renown Healing Arts program offers two healing gardens, professional artwork, musical performances, pet therapy and more. We’ve partnered with many local arts organizations to create an environment that exceeds boundaries of traditional medicine.
First introduced to celebrate the link between emotional and physical health, today’s Renown Healing Arts program offers two healing gardens, professional artwork, musical performances, pet therapy and more. We’ve partnered with many local arts organizations to create an environment that exceeds boundaries of traditional medicine.
1993 Difficult to forget
James, Jennifer and baby Clayton Stolpa were stranded in a blizzard for five days east of Vya, Nevada. The family was eventually rescued and taken to the trauma center for treatment and recovery.
James, Jennifer and baby Clayton Stolpa were stranded in a blizzard for five days east of Vya, Nevada. The family was eventually rescued and taken to the trauma center for treatment and recovery.
1998 People Make the Hospital
The first hospital history book by Dr. Anton Sohn and Carroll W. Ogren is published. Dr. Sohn practiced medicine at the hospital for 30 years and Carroll W. Ogren served as the hospital’s administrator from 1957 to 1978. The book and its research are the basis of much of our 150th timeline.
The first hospital history book by Dr. Anton Sohn and Carroll W. Ogren is published. Dr. Sohn practiced medicine at the hospital for 30 years and Carroll W. Ogren served as the hospital’s administrator from 1957 to 1978. The book and its research are the basis of much of our 150th timeline.
1999 Expanding to meet the community’s needs
Between 1990 and 2000, south Reno’s population expanded at nearly twice the rate of the greater Reno-Sparks area. As Reno approached 225,000 residents, the heath network expanded to include a location on Double R Blvd that offers assisted living, acute rehabilitation and long-term care in south Reno.
Between 1990 and 2000, south Reno’s population expanded at nearly twice the rate of the greater Reno-Sparks area. As Reno approached 225,000 residents, the heath network expanded to include a location on Double R Blvd that offers assisted living, acute rehabilitation and long-term care in south Reno.
1999 The region’s first Pediatric Specialty Care opens at the hospital. Today Children’s Specialty Care at Renown Children’s Hospital treats children and adolescents with cancer, including leukemia, solid tumors, brain tumors and diseases of the blood, kidneys and lungs.
2000
2001 Washoe County has 339,486 residents. The health network employs nearly 3,600 and has 738 physicians on the medical staff.
2003 The future Renown Rehabilitation Hospital is acquired. Today, with 62 inpatient beds and 26 therapists, the hospital offers a range of services for patients recovering from stroke, orthopedic injuries, joint replacement, spinal cord injuries, arthritis, Parkinson's, traumatic brain injuries, respiratory and neurological impairments.
2004 Welcome to the family!
Prompted by a 29% increase in hospital admissions since 1999, the health network expands its facility in south Reno. Renown South Meadows Medical Center is the first acute care hospital to open in Reno in nearly 20 years, offering some of the most advanced endoscopic and imaging technologies of the time.
Prompted by a 29% increase in hospital admissions since 1999, the health network expands its facility in south Reno. Renown South Meadows Medical Center is the first acute care hospital to open in Reno in nearly 20 years, offering some of the most advanced endoscopic and imaging technologies of the time.
Since 2004 and counting
The health network receives the Consumer Choice Award by the National Research Corporation and becomes the only one in Nevada named to the Top 100 Integrated Health Networks list. Renown has continued to receive these awards each year since.
The health network receives the Consumer Choice Award by the National Research Corporation and becomes the only one in Nevada named to the Top 100 Integrated Health Networks list. Renown has continued to receive these awards each year since.
2004 Advanced cancer and stroke treatments
The region’s first and only PET/CT for diagnosing and treating cancer patients, along with installation of the region’s first and only Bi-plane angiography to treat strokes. Bi-plane allows 3D viewing of the brain. PET/CT helps the physician with diagnosis and pinpointing the best approach to treatment.
The region’s first and only PET/CT for diagnosing and treating cancer patients, along with installation of the region’s first and only Bi-plane angiography to treat strokes. Bi-plane allows 3D viewing of the brain. PET/CT helps the physician with diagnosis and pinpointing the best approach to treatment.
Also in 2005, the epilepsy monitoring (EEG) laboratory is awarded a five-year accreditation by the ABRET (American Board of Registration Of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists).
2005 Going paperless
The heath network begins a seven-year $50 million investment to transition to the EPIC Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. EMR allows physicians and staff to coordinate patient care across settings, provides patients with online tools to be active in their care, and increases quality of care.
The heath network begins a seven-year $50 million investment to transition to the EPIC Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. EMR allows physicians and staff to coordinate patient care across settings, provides patients with online tools to be active in their care, and increases quality of care.
2005 Offering a second chance
A tragedy usually precipitates organ donation, and many families of donor patients take comfort in knowing that their loved one’s gift will save someone else’s life. In 2005 the hospital becomes the only in northern Nevada to receive the Medal of Honor for Organ Donation by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
A tragedy usually precipitates organ donation, and many families of donor patients take comfort in knowing that their loved one’s gift will save someone else’s life. In 2005 the hospital becomes the only in northern Nevada to receive the Medal of Honor for Organ Donation by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
2005 Stroke care reaches out to rural communities
The Comprehensive Stroke Center is designated the only Certified Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission – becoming the only one in Nevada and one of only 192 in the nation. The program is recognized nationally for its work to bring faster treatment to stroke patients in rural areas.
The Comprehensive Stroke Center is designated the only Certified Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission – becoming the only one in Nevada and one of only 192 in the nation. The program is recognized nationally for its work to bring faster treatment to stroke patients in rural areas.
2006 Proud to be Renown
The organization launches one of the biggest changes in our 142 year history – we become Renown Health . The new name better reflects the skill, expertise and technology employees and physicians bring to our community. As northern Nevada grew and changed; we evolved right along with it.
The organization launches one of the biggest changes in our 142 year history – we become Renown Health . The new name better reflects the skill, expertise and technology employees and physicians bring to our community. As northern Nevada grew and changed; we evolved right along with it.
2006 Convenience is key
A primary care physician office and urgent care opens in Fernley. Today Renown offers dozens of Medical Groups , Urgent Cares , Lab Services , and X-ray and Imaging locations throughout northern Nevada. Additionally, Medical Group offices offer same-day appointments and Urgent Care hours include Sundays.
A primary care physician office and urgent care opens in Fernley. Today Renown offers dozens of Medical Groups , Urgent Cares , Lab Services , and X-ray and Imaging locations throughout northern Nevada. Additionally, Medical Group offices offer same-day appointments and Urgent Care hours include Sundays.
2006 Vaccinate the family to protect the child: The Cocooning Program
Working with Nevada Health Division, Sanofi-Pasteur (a vaccine manufacturer) and Washoe County District Health Department, Renown is the first in the nation to offer free vaccinations for family members as a protection for their newborn child against pertussis (whooping cough).
Working with Nevada Health Division, Sanofi-Pasteur (a vaccine manufacturer) and Washoe County District Health Department, Renown is the first in the nation to offer free vaccinations for family members as a protection for their newborn child against pertussis (whooping cough).
2007 Is it hospital or a luxury hotel?
A new 10-story, state-of-the-art patient tower opens at Renown Regional Medical Center taking medicine to innovative heights. The Tahoe Tower features 190 new private patient suites; flat-screen TVs; 300 pieces of original artwork; valet parking locations; and wireless Internet access.
A new 10-story, state-of-the-art patient tower opens at Renown Regional Medical Center taking medicine to innovative heights. The Tahoe Tower features 190 new private patient suites; flat-screen TVs; 300 pieces of original artwork; valet parking locations; and wireless Internet access.
2007 Commitment to excellence in cancer care = more lives saved
The Institute for Cancer receives accreditation with Commendation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program. Accreditation is achieved by only 25 percent of all hospitals nationwide.
The Institute for Cancer receives accreditation with Commendation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program. Accreditation is achieved by only 25 percent of all hospitals nationwide.
2007 Fund for Nursing Excellence reaches $1.4 million
Reaching a milestone in 2007, this endowment fund continues to help Renown registered nurses pay for specialty certifications, receive continuing education and attend healthcare conferences. Community members, Renown employees and physicians are the primary contributors to the fund.
Reaching a milestone in 2007, this endowment fund continues to help Renown registered nurses pay for specialty certifications, receive continuing education and attend healthcare conferences. Community members, Renown employees and physicians are the primary contributors to the fund.
2007 Quality heart and stroke care
Renown is the first in the West to place the Cordis Enterprise Stent in two separate wide-neck brain aneurysm cases. The next year, it becomes the first site to perform Aortic Aneurysm Surgery in Nevada, and the first in northern Nevada to receive American Heart Association’s Quality Award for Stroke Care.
Renown is the first in the West to place the Cordis Enterprise Stent in two separate wide-neck brain aneurysm cases. The next year, it becomes the first site to perform Aortic Aneurysm Surgery in Nevada, and the first in northern Nevada to receive American Heart Association’s Quality Award for Stroke Care.
2008 Traveling out-of-state to receive transfusions and chemotherapy is a strain to families. Renown Children’s Hospital offers the region’s only pediatric hematology/oncology program so families can stay close to home. A Children’s Infusion Center opens in 2009.
2008 Robotic surgery - Renown is the first in northern Nevada to perform physician-guided heart surgery using the da Vinci® S HD ™Robotic Surgical System. Today, Renown’s Institute for Robotic Surgery offers two da Vinci systems and treated the 1,000th patient in early 2011.
2008 Sudden cardiac death is often due to electrical rhythm dysfunction in the lower chambers of the heart. Renown is first in the nation to implant the new TELIGEN heart defibrillator – the thinnest high-energy device in the world. It works with a home-monitoring system to notify physicians of patient changes between follow-up appointments.
2009 The stork’s favorite new nesting spot
The postpartum unit gets a makeover! The new Baby & Family Suites offers 28 private suites, original artwork, flat screen TVs and sleep chairs. A new newborn nursery with built-in radiant warmers and a family viewing area is also added thanks to a generous $1 million donation by William N. Pennington.
The postpartum unit gets a makeover! The new Baby & Family Suites offers 28 private suites, original artwork, flat screen TVs and sleep chairs. A new newborn nursery with built-in radiant warmers and a family viewing area is also added thanks to a generous $1 million donation by William N. Pennington.
2009 The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program receives certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).
2009 The first floor of the Sierra Tower is remodeled to accommodate inpatient stays for patients at Renown Institute for Cancer. The 29 private and two semi-private rooms include fold out chairs for family members and a new family lounge. At the same time, Fianna’s Healing Garden opens offering a serene retreat for patients.
2009 Hey batter, batter!
The Reno Aces debuts its first season to sold-out crowds. Today, the team collaborates with Renown Children’s Hospital to brighten the day of our smallest patients.
The Reno Aces debuts its first season to sold-out crowds. Today, the team collaborates with Renown Children’s Hospital to brighten the day of our smallest patients.
2009 Renown is the first in the western US to successfully laparascopicly remove liver tumors using a new microwave ablation treatment as well as RF ablation. The technology, where microwave energy is transmitted through the tip of a surgical probe, is used by the world's best liver surgeons to treat liver cancers.
2009 Setting world records
Renown becomes first in the region to offer the TomoTherapy Hi-Art ® System for therapeutic radiation treatment of cancerous tumors. This means fewer side-effects, shorter treatment times, and treatment of patients who couldn’t receive more therapy. The hospital sets a world record for number of cases treated in a day.
Renown becomes first in the region to offer the TomoTherapy Hi-Art ® System for therapeutic radiation treatment of cancerous tumors. This means fewer side-effects, shorter treatment times, and treatment of patients who couldn’t receive more therapy. The hospital sets a world record for number of cases treated in a day.
2009 Renown becomes the region’s first and only Chest Pain Center; the first in northern Nevada to offer a new type of hypothermia treatment for patients resuscitated after cardiac arrest; and the first in the region to use a new closure device (the Mynx) to stop bleeding and minimize pain during the final step of cardiovascular procedures.
2009 The Institute for Heart and Vascular Health introduces a new diagnostic camera called the D-SPECT Cardiac Imaging System. The technology provides sharper diagnostic images of the heart making risk assessment faster. It is the first of its kind in northern Nevada and one of only 30 in the world.
2009 Here’s looking at you, kid
The region’s first and only Children’s ER opens. Renown also announces its affiliation with NACHRI, one of 217 hospitals in the country – and the first and only one in Nevada -- with this distinction. This affiliation means Renown will take part in national programs to advocate for children’s medical needs.
The region’s first and only Children’s ER opens. Renown also announces its affiliation with NACHRI, one of 217 hospitals in the country – and the first and only one in Nevada -- with this distinction. This affiliation means Renown will take part in national programs to advocate for children’s medical needs.
2010
With feedback from patient focus groups, a remodeled Institute for Cancer opens in 2010. Designed to meet the growing demand of cancer treatment in the area, the remodeled space features original artwork and other patient-inspired personal touches like bright colors, private check-in and comfortable waiting areas.
2010 Every 45 seconds, someone in the US suffers a stroke
In 2010 Renown receives the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get with the Guidelines Gold Performance Achievement Award. The award recognizes commitment and success in implementing excellent care for stroke patients according to evidence-based guidelines.
In 2010 Renown receives the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get with the Guidelines Gold Performance Achievement Award. The award recognizes commitment and success in implementing excellent care for stroke patients according to evidence-based guidelines.
2010 Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is introduced. It uses 100% pure oxygen to enhance the body’s natural healing processes and strengthens the immune system. Benefits include improved wound healing, increased oxygen delivery to injured tissues, greater blood vessel formation, reduced swelling, and reduced risk of infection.
2010 Quality care right here at home
Topping the list for overall quality in northern Nevada, the hospital is awarded the HealthInsight Quality Award of 2010.
Topping the list for overall quality in northern Nevada, the hospital is awarded the HealthInsight Quality Award of 2010.
2010 Great minds think alike
The Institute for Cancer and the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, the two leading cancer programs in their regions, join forces to enhance patient care and improve access to top level medical experts.
The Institute for Cancer and the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, the two leading cancer programs in their regions, join forces to enhance patient care and improve access to top level medical experts.
2010 Convenience in the palm of your hand
Renown South Meadows launches an ER Wait Times program. It is the first hospital in the area to publish ER wait times online - viewable on its website or from a smartphone on its mobile site. In 2011, Renown Regional ER and the Children’s ER offer wait times online as well.
Renown South Meadows launches an ER Wait Times program. It is the first hospital in the area to publish ER wait times online - viewable on its website or from a smartphone on its mobile site. In 2011, Renown Regional ER and the Children’s ER offer wait times online as well.
2010 Institute for Heart & Vascular Health and the Chest Pain Center offer coronary laser ablation – a first in northern Nevada. Laser ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that helps restore blood flow to heart muscle by producing pulsed bursts of ultraviolet (UV) light energy to vaporize blockages in the arteries.
2010 Small and mighty
Renown Regional announced it was the first hospital in northern Nevada to insert a heart pump directly into a patient’s heart. At the time, the device, known as the Impella 2.5 was the world’s smallest heart pump, nearly 100th the size of the heart.
Renown Regional announced it was the first hospital in northern Nevada to insert a heart pump directly into a patient’s heart. At the time, the device, known as the Impella 2.5 was the world’s smallest heart pump, nearly 100th the size of the heart.
2010 Renown Breast Health Center offers the region’s first and only whole breast screening ultrasound, called SonoCiné . For women with dense breasts, SonoCiné is the latest technology to detect cancers when they are smaller and earlier than mammography alone.
2011 Renown Regional Medical Center becomes one of only five hospitals in the nation designated a Robotic Epicenter where gynecologic surgeons and staff come to learn da Vinci surgical techniques and operating room efficiencies.
2011 Renown’s Institute for Heart & Vascular Health receives full Heart Failure Center Accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. As one of only 34 accredited facilities in the country, this accreditation recognizes the steps put in place to provide earlier treatment, shorter hospital stays and better quality of life to heart failure patients.
2011 Our community experienced something collectively that will forever change each of us. A North American P-51D Mustang plane crashed into spectators at the Reno Air Races, killing 11 people including the pilot, and injuring at least 69. Dozens of injured were taken to area hospitals.
2011 Quality is fundamental
Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Regional Medical Center are ranked as the top two performing private acute care hospitals in the region by HealthInsight.
Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Regional Medical Center are ranked as the top two performing private acute care hospitals in the region by HealthInsight.
2011 The Society of Chest Pain Centers granted the designation of Accredited Chest Pain Center to Renown South Meadows Medical Center.
2011 Another remarkable option for treating cancer - Varian TrueBeam . This state-of-the-art equipment delivers high doses of radiation for image-guided radiotherapy and radiosurgery with incredible precision and without incisions or surgery. Most treatments take just minutes which means greater patient comfort and less time at the hospital.
2011 Great minds think alike
The University of Nevada School of Medicine, Renown Children’s Hospital and the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Stanford join forces to allow cystic fibrosis patients in northern Nevada access to more than 25 clinical trials. This will help develop the way doctors administer care and the way patients find solutions.
The University of Nevada School of Medicine, Renown Children’s Hospital and the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Stanford join forces to allow cystic fibrosis patients in northern Nevada access to more than 25 clinical trials. This will help develop the way doctors administer care and the way patients find solutions.
2011 Welcoming nearly 4,000 babies into the world each year
Renown Children’s Hospital opens a new Labor Assessment Area where expectant moms are evaluated to determine what stage of labor they're in and if baby is on the way. The area features private patient rooms, family lounge and portraits of Renown newborns by local photographer Jeff Ross.
Renown Children’s Hospital opens a new Labor Assessment Area where expectant moms are evaluated to determine what stage of labor they're in and if baby is on the way. The area features private patient rooms, family lounge and portraits of Renown newborns by local photographer Jeff Ross.
2011 Renown Institute for Cancer earns accreditation for Radiation Oncology (ACR-RO) and Breast Cancer (NAPBC) becoming Nevada's only program with triple accreditation including previously obtained accreditation for Comprehensive Cancer Program (ACoS CoC). A commitment to patients means providing the most advanced cancer treatments available.
2011 Offering the gold standard
Renown is the only health network in Nevada to receive the NICHE designation (Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders). It is the only national designation indicating a hospital's commitment to elder care excellence. This same year, a dedicated senior lounge opens in the ER at Renown Regional.
Renown is the only health network in Nevada to receive the NICHE designation (Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders). It is the only national designation indicating a hospital's commitment to elder care excellence. This same year, a dedicated senior lounge opens in the ER at Renown Regional.
2012 A person’s a person, no matter how small. –Dr. Seuss
Renown Children’s Hospital opens a new 100% donor funded patient floor. Features include the Wilbur D. May Pediatric ICU, 19 inpatient rooms including three specialty suites that are ADA compliant, two therapeutic playrooms, Ronald McDonald Family Room and professional and student artwork.
Renown Children’s Hospital opens a new 100% donor funded patient floor. Features include the Wilbur D. May Pediatric ICU, 19 inpatient rooms including three specialty suites that are ADA compliant, two therapeutic playrooms, Ronald McDonald Family Room and professional and student artwork.
2012 Today we are northern Nevada's largest and only locally owned not-for-profit integrated health network. We serve a 17-county region comprised of northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. We offer access to more healthcare services than all other providers in the region. It is our privilege to provide healthcare to our community.
2012 With 5,000 employees and more than 900 physicians with privileges, it’s hard to find a community member that hasn’t worked here, had a child here, or known a friend or family member that received care here. It remains our passion and our purpose to make a genuine difference for the many lives we touch by optimizing our patients’ healthcare experience.
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In celebration of 150 remarkable years, we offer a timeline of our journey to become a healthcare leader. Our beginnings were humble and our dreams were big. Our commitment to this community made us who we are today.
Enjoy this walk through the history of Renown Health – and a history of our community. We’ve highlighted some major accomplishments as a health network, but there’s a lot missing from all that’s taken place over 150 years. Buildings, equipment, awards and accomplishments are nothing without the people who have made possible everything that Renown Health represents today. The stories of individual employees, physicians, patients and community partners are shared in the 150 stories section of this website.
As you view the timeline, take a moment to reflect on the milestones you remember or the stories in which you’ve played a part. We hope you’ll share your stories with us.
The vast majority of this information was gathered from “The People Make the Hospital” by Dr. Anton Sohn and Carroll W. Ogren; Alicia M. Barber, PhD; UNR’s historical archives and Special Collections; Reno Gazette-Journal archive; Renown Foundation; and employee newsletters and hospital annual reports. Supplemental information was gathered from informal sources such as online blogs, personal interviews and Wikipedia. We are especially grateful to Alicia Barber, PhD, David Johnson, MD, and Anton Sohn, MD, for their time and assistance with this project.