Iwas born with a congenital heart defect. Earlier this year, I had open-heart surgery to repair my aortic valve, which was dilated and at risk of dissection. Obviously, not ideal. But here’s the good part: I never had to leave Las Vegas to receive care.
In years past, I might have been sent to Stanford or another out-of-state hospital for such a complex procedure. Instead, I was able to place my life in the hands of an incredible team of cardiologists and a highly skilled cardiothoracic surgeon right here in town. That experience gave me more than healing—it gave me perspective. It showed how far health care in Southern Nevada has come and how fortunate we are to have world-class physicians serving our community.
The doctors who made that possible embody the spirit of this issue. Top Doctors honors those who raise the standard of care in our city, reflecting a community that is emerging as a hub for outstanding health care. Each year, physicians across Southern Nevada are invited to nominate their peers—those they trust most with their own patients and families. The result is a list of doctors recognized by doctors, representing the best of our medical community.
nation’s highest kidney-survival rates. At Sunrise Hospital’s Burn and Reconstructive Center, Dr. Jay Coates and his team use placenta-based grafts to help burn patients heal faster, while Roseman University’s GENESIS program brings care into homes and addresses the everyday factors that affect health.
Each of these stories reflects something bigger than medical achievement. They speak to the collaboration and commitment driving health care forward in Southern Nevada. As more doctors choose to teach, innovate and invest their careers here, they strengthen the entire system, allowing patients like you and me to find quality care in our own backyard, and to increase the number of Top Doctors serving the Valley.
I’m grateful for this year’s sponsors, UMC, HCA Far West Division, Circa Resort & Casino, and Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada. Your support helps us celebrate the people and programs improving health care for all Southern Nevadans. Comprehensive, especially, has been a valued partner for many years and Vegas Inc appreciates your commitment to this publication.
That same commitment to excellence can be seen across the valley, where educators, researchers and medical leaders are shaping the systems that support these physicians. At UNLV’s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, Aftab Merchant, MBBS, FCPS, and his team are shaping the next generation of physicians through an anatomy program that blends traditional study with modern technology. At UMC, Dr. Sunil Patel and his colleagues are setting records in kidney transplantation, performing hundreds of life-changing surgeries each year and maintaining one of the
Finally, to our Top Doctors, thank you. Your dedication heals, inspires and strengthens our community. You have not only our respect, but also our admiration.
Sincerely,
Alex Haase Associate Publisher and Editor of Special Publications
From the sponsor
Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada would like to congratulate the 2025 Vegas Inc Top Doctors honorees. We are proud to support and recognize the heroes in our health care community—including some of our own physicians—by sponsoring this annual recognition.
Our local health care professionals work selflessly to provide compassionate treatment to patients across Southern Nevada. Their commitment to providing first-rate care to those in need continues to be a top priority.
For more than 50 years, the physicians at Comprehensive have provided the highest-quality care across medical oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, breast surgery, pulmonary services, cancer genetic counseling and clinical research trials. The practice is committed to enhancing the patient experience by recruiting the best physicians and advanced practice providers, all while investing in the latest technology.
all while allowing our oncologists to dedicate focused time to the most complex cancer cases. This focus on meaningful growth across multiple aspects of the practice is perhaps best exemplified by our newly unveiled Comprehensive Breast Center at Sunrise Hospital. By adding three highly-trained breast surgical oncologists and consolidating their expertise under one roof, each patient will benefit from collective wisdom and specialized, integrated care. We take so much pride in being a part of the fabric of the medical community and working together with our health care colleagues to bring quality care to Southern Nevada. Sponsoring Top Doctors for the past 13 years is one way we celebrate that and all our successes. Congratulations to all the 2025 Top Doctors on your noteworthy contributions. Let’s continue to push the local medical community forward while making our patients proud.
Sincerely,
Our commitment to expanding access to care is demonstrated through our active recruitment and our strategic expansion plans, which include adding a flagship location within the burgeoning Las Vegas Medical District. We are also expanding our specialized services to ensure all patients receive the promptest care possible,
Lisa Santwer Executive Director Comprehensive Cancer Centers
MOUNTAINVIEW HOSPITAL LAUNCHES NEVADA’S FIRST DAY HOSPITAL FOR BLOOD CANCER PATIENTS
MountainView Hospital opened Nevada’s first outpatient day hospital dedicated to blood cancer care. The 12,000-squarefoot facility, part of the Sarah Cannon Transplant and Cellular Therapy program, treats patients on the hospital’s northwest Las Vegas campus. Designed to reduce the burden of hospitalization for immunocompromised patients, the day hospital provides transfusions, procedures and, in the future, stem cell transplants in an outpatient setting.
HYPERTENSION PROCEDURE COMES TO NEVADA
Dr. Branavan Umakanthan of Nevada Heart & Vascular Center performed the state’s first Symplicity Spyral™ renal denervation (RDN) procedure at University Medical Center. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2023, the treatment targets overactive nerves near the kidneys that contribute to high blood pressure. The procedure is designed for patients whose hypertension remains uncontrolled despite medication and lifestyle changes.
LEASE AGREEMENT FINALIZED FOR NEVADA’S FIRST STAND-ALONE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Intermountain Health, Gardner Group and the UNLV Research Foundation finalized a land lease at UNLV’s Harry Reid Research and Technology Park for the future site of Nevada’s first stand-alone comprehensive children’s hospital. The facility will provide advanced pediatric specialty care, including oncology and cardiovascular services, that many families seek out of state. Groundbreaking is expected in early 2026.
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Contributed columns: Can Alzheimer’s be diagnosed through eyes?
14
UNLV’s anatomy program elevates medical training in Nevada
20 Vegas Inc shares its list of Top Doctors in 2025
36 Six healthy lifestyle habits to shape your heart health
38
UMC on track to complete 200 kidney transplants in 2025
48
News and updates from the Las Vegas medical community
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Bondarenko , Ph.D., is a professor and chair of the Department of Basic Sciences at Touro University Nevada
New approach to Alzheimer’s diagnosis is more than meets the eye
BY VLADIMIR BONDARENKO, PH.D.
Dementia is a broad term describing cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60% to 80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms vary by individual but often include confusion, difficulty with communication, impaired problem-solving, and changes in personality or behavior. As the disease advances, it interferes with daily tasks, which reduces quality of life and independence.
Alzheimer’s has become a growing public health concern. Nationally, about 1 in 9 people age 65 and older live with the disease. In Nevada, approximately 49,000 residents were affected in 2020, a number projected to rise to 64,000 as baby boomers age and more retirees relocate to Las Vegas.
As cases continue to rise, early diagnosis is critical—even before symptoms emerge. Research from the Alzheimer’s Association shows the disease can begin 20 years or more before memory loss or other signs appear. Yet many patients either pass standard cognitive screenings or are never offered one by their provider. Others decline testing altogether. This lack of screening can be harmful, since early detection offers the best chance for effective intervention and care planning.
Touro University Nevada is exploring a promising noninvasive approach to diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease by studying the retina. As an extension of the brain, the retina shares similar tissue and vascular structures, making
it a valuable window into neurological health.
Touro’s research focuses on how changes in retinal structure and function may signal early signs of Alzheimer’s pathology. Through histological studies, researchers have identified a strong correlation between the accumulation of tau protein in the brain and in the retinas of individuals with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Advanced imaging technologies, including positron emission tomography, are now being used to identify biomarkers such as tau in the retina. These biomarkers are known to accumulate in the brain and may appear in the eye before cognitive symptoms are detectable. By comparing retinal images from healthy individuals with those from patients at various stages of cognitive decline, researchers aim to identify consistent patterns linked to Alzheimer’s pathology. If successful, retinal imaging could allow earlier diagnosis, enabling timely treatment and better disease management.
Retinal imaging also offers practical advantages. It is noninvasive, cost-effective and widely accessible, making it well suited for large-scale screening. Importantly, its use should extend beyond physician offices. Other medical professionals who routinely see older patients could also play a role in detection, expanding opportunities for early identification.
To advance this research, Touro is seeking to partner with ophthalmologists to expand data collection and build on early findings. Researchers also aim to recruit individuals at various stages of cognitive decline and track their progression over time. Such collaboration is essential to strengthening the study and contributing knowledge that extends beyond our community, ultimately helping the millions affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Vladimir
Ways parents and college students can prioritize mental health
BY NICOLE BRADY, MD
College is the ultimate proving ground for independence, but adapting to new routines—including setting schedules, managing classwork and navigating relationships—can trigger stress, anxiety and even depression. The late teens and early twenties are a time of major neurological and emotional development, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 75% of lifetime mental illnesses begin before age 24. UnitedHealthcare’s College Student and Graduate Behavioral Health Report found that 60% of students self-reported mental or behavioral health challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders and suicidal ideation or intent. As the fall semester ends and students return home for winter break, it’s an opportunity to have open conversations about mental health with peers and family.
Tips for students to prioritize mental health
1. Normalize talking about mental health with your friends
Findings from UnitedHealthcare revealed that nearly half of students self-reported that talking to a friend influenced their willingness to seek mental or behavioral health care.
2. Don’t be afraid to talk with your parents
While mental health may seem like a daunting topic, letting parents or caregivers know how you feel can go a long way. They can serve as a trusted resource in finding you the proper support you need.
3. Know what’s available on campus and through your health plan
Familiarizing yourself with your mental health resources before needing them can make a significant difference. Look into what’s available through your campus counseling center,
student health plan or your family’s health plan.
4. Seek professional help when necessary Get support if feelings of stress, anxiety or depression persist. Make an appointment with your campus health center or talk to your primary care physician.
5. Keep the conversation going after college
Staying in the habit of checking in on your mental health and talking about it with friends may help you navigate future transitions like a new job, a move or financial independence.
Tips for parents to support their students
Although young adults seek independence, that may not mean they stop needing support.
Data from UnitedHealthcare found that both college students and graduates who engaged in more frequent conversations with parents about their mental health reported higher rates of positive outcomes. While your role in your child’s life may have shifted over time, your guidance is still essential.
1. Initiate the mental health conversation
Start casual conversations about how your young adult is feeling. The goal isn’t to problem-solve, but to signal that emotional check-ins are important and OK.
2. Normalize seeking help from a professional
Whether your student is struggling now or not, introduce the idea that support may always be available and valid. Framing mental health care as a routine, rather than a last resort, may help reduce stigma and build openness later.
3. Keep showing up for your child
Young adulthood, especially college life, can feel overwhelming. Your presence through texts, calls and moments together may offer a powerful reminder that they are not alone.
For more student health and wellness information, visit uhcsr.com.
Nicole Brady, MD, is the chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare Student Resources
Steven Slivka is Director of Communications at UNLV’s School of Integrated Health Sciences
The 12-3-30 treadmill method: Viral trend or legitimate workout?
BY STEVEN SLIVKA
In the age of social media, where people have unlimited information at their fingertips, influencers are affecting the way we exercise. A prime example is the 12-3-30 treadmill workout.
First made popular by social media influencer Lauren Giraldo in 2019, the routine is simple: walk on a treadmill at a 12% incline at three miles per hour for 30 minutes. It has since garnered millions of views online. But just how effective is this viral trend?
In UNLV’s Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences, a research team led by professors Michael Wong, Dustin Davis and James Navalta set out to find that answer, comparing 12-3-30 with a self-paced treadmill run.
“Calorie burning is a big part of weight loss, and we wanted to see if 12-3-30 burned calories faster than the conventional running method,” Wong said. “Our primary finding was that traditional cardio resulted in a faster rate of calories burned than 12-3-30.”
The findings have since been published in the International Journal of Exercise Science
During the study, participants started with 12-3-30 and then returned for the self-paced run. Participants burned approximately 310 calories with 12-3-30 but reached the same burn six minutes faster on a self-paced run. While running burned calories faster, a greater percentage of calories burned during 123-30 came from fat instead of carbohydrates due to its lower intensity.
“It’s not like we’re going to see a huge difference in fat loss from that,” Wong said. “The way the body manages weight and mass is determined by chronic caloric deficit, which means taking in less calories than your body
needs to maintain its weight.”
Giraldo claimed to have lost 30 pounds and maintained a lower weight for approximately two years without dieting or counting calories because of 12-3-30. However, while some influencers credit workouts alone, Wong noted that results come from exercise plus lifestyle changes.
Navalta said that 12-3-30 is a perfect example of a popular workout being ahead of science, which can be a problem in the social media age.
“Just getting approval for a study takes several months,” he said. “Then you have to recruit participants, do the study, write the results and publish. That can take years. Influencers can find instant results, and then the science has to catch up.”
While 12-3-30 on its own may not lead to significant weight loss, at least according to the research, the group still views the routine positively because it encourages people to be active.
“One of the things that people reported liking about 12-3-30 is that they knew exactly what to do. It’s right there in the name,” said Davis. “Having a definitive plan reduces the barriers of going to the gym and gives people more confidence.”
For those looking to improve their fitness but unsure of where to start, having a consistent routine can lead to more productivity. In the end, millions of people saw the 12-3-30 workout and many decided to try it for themselves.
“If you do a little, you’re substantially better off than doing nothing,” Davis said. “Maybe it’s only 6-3-15 instead of 12-3-30. As long as you’re active, that’s the most important thing.”
UNLV’s anatomy program elevates medical training in Southern Nevada
A DEEPER
BY PAUL JONCICH
The anatomical education program at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV has rapidly evolved into one of the most advanced in the region. Housed in the school’s 135,000-square-foot medical education building, made possible through the generosity of the Nevada Health and Bioscience Corporation, the program combines state-of-the-art facilities with innovative curriculum design, offering students access to human body dissection, plastinated specimens, virtual reality platforms and digital anatomy tools.
Associate professor of medical education Dr. Gary Shen leads an anatomy discussion (Courtesy)
OF THE BODY >> HUMAN UNDERSTA NDING
Transforming the curriculum
Since joining UNLV in 2023, Aftab Merchant, MBBS, FCPS, a professor of medical education and assistant dean for anatomical education, has led a transformation of anatomical sciences at the school. Merchant was formerly the discipline director for anatomy across the three campuses of the University of Illinois College of Medicine. At UNLV, he has drawn on his expertise in curriculum design and educational leadership to create a program that blends traditional dissection with technology-enhanced learning.
Reflecting on the program’s evolution, Merchant said, “we moved from a virtual-only model to a curriculum where students can learn anatomy through human body dissection, plastinated specimens and immersive technologies. More importantly, our focus is on clinically relevant anatomy—teaching students the knowledge and skills that will directly support their careers as future physicians. This balance helps them not only master anatomy, but also develop compassion, professionalism and confidence in applying what they learn to patient care.”
The anatomy team has integrated anatomy into the system-based curriculum alongside cross-sectional anatomy, radiology, histology and embryology, revitalized neuroscience instruction, and developed a fourthyear clinical anatomy elective. The program has expanded the use of plastinated specimens and anatomical models, and upgraded the audiovisual facilities in the anatomy lab to enrich the learning environment.
Together, these efforts have helped position the school of medicine as a model of how tradition and technology can be blended for maximal impact.
The program’s success reflects the efforts
Paul Joncich is the Manager of Media Relations at UNLV’s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine
Top: Lab director Owen McCloskey speaks to students Bottom: Students interact with a virtual anatomy monitor (Courtesy photos)
of a dedicated team that has driven its growth and innovation.
Dr. Macario Llamas, associate professor of medical education, has joined the unit, bringing experience and expertise that are strengthening and diversifying the curriculum. Owen McCloskey, who initially served as anatomy lab manager, is now director of the anatomy lab and the anatomical gift program, ensuring the longterm sustainability of donor-based education. Additionally, numerous clinical faculty members contribute to teaching, which enriches student learning with real-world perspectives.
A distinctive student experience
Students are introduced to the dissection lab with an emphasis on professionalism, compassion and respect for donors. They progress from guided prosection labs to
hands-on dissection, gaining experiences in understanding human variation and tissue handling.
Outside the lab, they learn through plastinated specimens, round-the-clock access to Sectra tables, and immersive virtual reality dissections. Students conclude their anatomy experience with the Service of Gratitude, an entirely student-led event honoring the donors whose anatomical gifts made their education possible.
The program extends beyond medical students. The Summer Anatomy Seminar, launched in 2024, offers pre-med undergraduates hands-on experience with human donor specimens, simulation-based clinical experiences, and advanced technologies such as virtual reality to explore complex concepts in a clinical context. It also creates opportunities to connect with medical students and faculty while exploring careers in
>>FEATURE
the health sciences.
Beyond undergraduate and medical student training, the anatomy facilities offer residents and clinical faculty opportunities to learn and refine procedural skills. In partnership with the simulation center, the program supports learners at every level, from pre-medical students to residents and practicing clinicians.
Looking ahead
With plans for an Anatomical Gift Program, the first in Southern Nevada, and continued investment in facilities and curriculum, the anatomical education program at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine is on a trajectory of continued growth.
“We are continuously looking for ways to improve the educational experience. Our students have always performed well, often meeting or exceeding national averages. What sets us apart now is the richness of their educational experience,” Dr. Alison Netski, interim dean, said. “The expansion of anatomy education strengthens our curriculum and provides world-class opportunities for our students to develop an even deeper understanding of the human body.”
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV prepares students with the knowledge, skills and values they need to become competent physicians. By aligning anatomy education with clinical practice, the school ensures that graduates leave with a deep understanding of human structure and the ability to apply that knowledge with confidence, compassion and excellence in patient care.
The annual Top Doctors issue of Health Care Quarterly celebrates the physicians who set the standard for medical excellence in Southern Nevada. Selected through a peer-nomination process and verified through professional boards, these doctors have earned the trust and respect of their colleagues. This guide highlights more than 100 outstanding physicians across a wide range of specialties, representing the depth and diversity of care available in our region. Whether you’re seeking preventive care, advanced treatment or a second opinion, you can turn to this list with confidence. We’re proud to recognize these dedicated professionals who devote their lives to keeping our community healthy.
ALLERGY/ IMMUNOLOGY
Jason Bellak, MD
Allergy and Asthma Center of Las Vegas 702-360-6100 allergyvegas.com
Bob Miyake, MD Allergy Partners of Nevada 702-342-9450 allergypartners.com
David Tottori, MD Tottori Allergy & Asthma Associates 702-432-8250 tottoriallergy.com
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Steve Brown, MD Hair Transplant Vegas 702-990-1975 hairtransplantvegas.com
Rainer Vogel, MD Comprehensive and Interventional Pain Management 702-990-4530 cipmnv.com
BARIATRICS
Elizabeth Santone, MD Southern Nevada Surgery Specialists 702-914-2420 southernnvsurgery.com
Darren Soong, MD
Surgical Weight Control Center 702-313-8446 surgicalweightcontrolcenter. com
Francis Teng, MD Advanced Surgical Care 702-838-5888 sunrisehealthinfo.com
CARDIOLOGY
Keshav Chander, MD
Smart Heart Care & Smart Medical Care 702-473-5333 4smartcare.com
Anthony Dota, MD Las Vegas Heart Associates 702-962-2200 lasvegasheartassociates.com
Atousa Ghaneian, MD Healthy Kids Care at Sunrise 702-357-5727 healthykidscarelv.org
With heartfelt gratitude to: Dr. Henry Wang, Dr. Edward Tsai, Dr. Christianne Yung, Dr. Jefrey Ng, Dr. Sean Ameli, Dr. Nasim Daoud, Dr. Marven Cabling, Dr. Benjamin Lee, Ms. Anna Holand, Ms.Grace Dacpano, my mother, and the countless others who have guided me on this amazing healthcare journey.
SponsoredbyORMCHealthcare
Tal Minuskin, MD Kiddies’ Pal Pediatrics 702-207-1565 kiddiespalpediatrics.com
Laura Weidenfeld, MD Sunshine Valley Pediatrics 702-363-3000 lasvegaspediatricdoctors. com
PLASTIC SURGERY
Hayley Brown, MD Desert Hills Plastic Surgery Center 702-260-7707 deserthillsplasticsurgery.com
Arthur Cambeiro, MD SurgiSpa 702-566-8300 surgispa.net
Cameron Earl, MD Earl Plastic Surgery 702-939-3436 earlplasticsurgery.com
Joshua Goldman, MD Vegas Plastic Surgery Institute 702-727-8500 vegaspsi.com
Stephen Miller, MD
Stephen M. Miller MD 702-369-1001 drstephenmiller.com
Brandon Reynolds, MD Reynolds Plastic Surgery 702-410-9800 reynoldscosmetics.com
Jeffrey Roth, MD Las Vegas Plastic Surgery 702-825-7138 jjrothmd.com
PSYCHIATRY
Stephen Frye, MD Progressive Psychiatric Services 702-899-1208 progressivepsychlv.com
PULMONARY
Nisarg Changawala, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers
702-737-5864 cccnevada.com
George Tu, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-737-5864 cccnevada.com
John Wojcik, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-737-5864 cccnevada.com
Amin Moshksar, MD Red Rock Radiology Associates 702-410-8495 redrockradiology.org
David Steinberg, MD Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging 702-732-6000 sdmi-lv.com
Peter Weidenfeld, MD Red Rock Radiology Associates 702-410-8945 redrockradiology.org
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
Michael Anderson, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-952-3444 cccnevada.com
Andrew Cohen, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-952-2140 cccnevada.com
Dan Curtis, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-233-2200 cccnevada.com
Matthew Schwartz, MD Comprehensive Cancer Centers 702-952-3444 cccnevada.com
RHEUMATOLOGY
Mitchell Forman, DO UNLV Health 702-671-5070 unlvhealth.org
Yvonne Lee, MD Oasis Rheumatology Medical Center 702-509-7989 oasisrheum.com
Abraham Tacang, MD Sagebrush Health 702-664-6762 sagebrushhealth.com
UROLOGY
Andrew Hwang, MD Las Vegas Pediatric Urology 702-728-5686 lasvegaspediatricurology.com
Jason Zommick, MD Urology Specialists of Nevada 702-877-0814 usonv.com
It takes going the extra mile to reach the top
We are proud to acknowledge our 2025 Top Doc honorees. As essential members of the Optum family, they strive to bring better health to the lives of each and every patient. optum.com/nevada
Russell Gollard, MD Medical Oncology, Optum Cancer Care
For the past 20 years, Dr. Gollard has made it his personal mission to help people during their cancer journeys.
Karla Bhatia, MD
Endocrinology, Southwest Medical
Dr. Bhatia has been dedicated to high-quality, patient-centered care for over 15 years, during which she has specialized in endocrinology and metabolism.
Neil Gokal, MD Family
Medicine, Southwest Medical
The highlight of Dr. Gokal’s professional life is spending time with patients and residents, and mentoring students in training.
Jason Zommick, MD Urology,
Urology Specialists of Nevada
In his quest to provide new and effective treatment options for his patients, Dr. Zommick has helped to initiate life-changing clinical research.
CONGRATULATIONS TO DR. MITCHELL FORMAN FOR BEING NAMED A LAS VEGAS TOP DOCTOR
Mitchell Forman, DO
Rheumatology Fellowship Program Director, Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV
To schedule an appointment with any of our fine doctors, please visit unlvhealth.org
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 TOP DOCS AND HEALTH CARE HEADLINERS
Dr. Michael Ciccolo
Sunrise Children’s Heart Surgery Center
2025 Top Doc List
2025 Health Care Headliner
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Anothony Dota
Las Vegas Heart Associates
2025 Top Doc List
Dr. Kornelis Poelstra
Southern Hills Hospital
2025 Health Care Headliner Physician Award
We proudly congratulate Dr. Dota and Dr. Ciccolo for their recognition among the 2025 Top Doctors in the valley. We also celebrate Dr. Ciccolo and Dr. Poelstra for their admirable honors as 2025 Health Care Headliners. Thank you for your dedication to advancing healthcare in our community.
PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY
Joshua Kling, MD
Dr. Joshua Kling is a pediatric radiologist at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging. He chose radiology for its dynamic, collaborative nature and its impact at critical moments. Pediatric practice suits him because it engages every imaging modality across all organ systems.
Kling works closely with physicians across specialties to guide diagnosis and clinical management for children, especially when young patients cannot fully describe symptoms. His approach is multidisciplinary and patient-centered, and his priorities are diligent interpretation, clear communication and thoughtful consultation that supports families and care teams.
He is committed to serving Las Vegas’ diverse community, a mission shaped by the resilience, camaraderie and love he has witnessed here. His favorite part of medicine is constant growth. He values learning and teaching through daily interactions with patients, colleagues, students and trainees, as well as through the medical literature.
STEINBERG DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL IMAGING
Serving 12 locations throughout the Valley 702-732-6000 sdmi-lv.com
MUSCULOSKELETAL RADIOLOGY
Michael O’Bryant, DO
Dr. Michael O’Bryant is a musculoskeletal radiologist at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging. Radiology appealed to him for its integration of anatomy with pathophysiology and its multifaceted nature, which lets him connect broad clinical knowledge to imaging findings that inform care.
Musculoskeletal imaging became his focus during training because it is demanding. The anatomy is difficult and widespread, and pathology often overlaps with joint-specific biomechanics. Subspecialty training gave him deeper expertise and greater comfort with material that many radiologists find challenging after residency.
O’Bryant joined SDMI for its outpatient practice setting and patient-centered focus, along with the opportunity to practice across a wide spectrum and develop new skills.
In a growing Las Vegas, he aims to provide safe, competent and empathetic radiology care that gives referring providers confidence and helps patients return to better health.
STEINBERG DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL IMAGING
Serving 12 locations throughout the Valley 702-732-6000 sdmi-lv.com
Robert Beck, MD
Dr. Robert Beck is a radiation oncologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers’ Southwest clinic at Southern Hills Hospital and Summerlin/CyberKnife radiation treatment center at Summerlin Hospital. He delivers advanced technical expertise in various radiation modalities, including brachytherapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy, brain stereotactic radiosurgery and intensity modulated radiotherapy. Beck previously served in leadership roles, including medical director at Optum Radiation Oncology and chief resident at the Rutgers Department of Radiation Oncology. He earned his medical degree from the University of Utah School of Medicine, where he also completed an additional year of research on cancer genetics. Dr. Beck completed his four-year residency at Rutgers University and is Board Certified in Radiation Oncology by the American Board of Radiology.
COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTERS
Southwest Clinic 9280 W. Sunset Road Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89148
702-952-1251
Summerlin Clinic 655 N. Town Center Drive Las Vegas, NV 89144
702-233-2200
Janson Trieu, MD
Dr. Janson Trieu is a medical oncologist and hematologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada in Southwest Las Vegas. He holds a strong clinical specialization in genitourinary and skin malignancies, with a focus on prostate cancer and melanoma. This expertise was cultivated through intensive elective rotations during his fellowship at the Levine Cancer Institute, where he dedicated nearly two years of training and working alongside leading specialists.
Trieu’s philosophy centers on providing compassionate care while establishing a crucial balance between cancer therapy and patients’ quality of life. He strives to help patients and their families understand their life-altering diagnosis by delivering clear, easily digestible information in a welcoming, local environment.
After earning his medical degree at the University of Arizona, Trieu completed his Internal Medicine residency in Las Vegas at UNLV, where he co-founded the Hematology and Oncology Interest Group.
COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTERS— SOUTHWEST/ SOUTHERN HILLS 9280 W. Sunset Road Suite 100
Las Vegas, NV 89148
702-952-1251
Ammar M. Yousif, MD
Dr. Ammar Yousif is a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada’s Southwest treatment center.
Yousif views the doctor-patient relationship as a partnership, and his approach is rooted in providing care that is scientifically grounded, deeply compassionate and patient-centered. He treats all cancers and serious blood disorders, and his special interests include genitourinary malignancies and lung cancer.
He brings significant academic expertise, having worked as a research assistant at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and publications.
Yousif completed his medical degree at Baghdad University and his subsequent training in the Southwest United States, including his internal medicine residency at UNLV and his fellowship at the University of Arizona. He is triple-board-certified in internal medicine, hematology and oncology.
COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTERS— SOUTHWEST/ SOUTHERN HILLS
9280 W. Sunset Road Suite 100
Las Vegas, NV 89148
702-952-1251
Staci McHale, MD
Dr. Staci McHale has provided exceptional care for the women of Las Vegas since 2008. Specializing in robotic and minimally invasive surgery as well as menopause care, McHale has helped countless women on their journeys to optimal health. She takes special joy in welcoming new lives into the world with her personal approach to pregnancy care.
McHale and her team at WHASN Sunset Valley spend time with each patient, prioritizing individualized compassionate women’s healthcare. All treatment options, both surgical and nonsurgical, are discussed in-depth to allow for shared decision-making and optimized outcomes.
As president of the Clark County Medical Society from 2021-2022, McHale tirelessly advocated for improvement to the healthcare system in Southern Nevada and statewide. She continues to work with state legislators to expand healthcare access and ensure quality healthcare for all Nevadans.
WHASN SUNSET VALLEY
8850 W. Sunset Road #110 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702-740-0500 whasnsunsetvalley.com
Reba Suri, MD
Las Vegas native and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Reba Suri combines advanced medical training with a deep passion for helping patients overcome hair loss and rediscover their confidence. After earning her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and serving as cosmetic chief resident during her dermatology residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Dr. Suri pursued specialized fellowship training in Hair Transplantation under the renowned Dr. Meena Singh. At Vivida Dermatology, Dr. Suri integrates cutting-edge techniques with a personalized, evidence-based approach to hair restoration—addressing both the causes of hair loss and the pathways to regrowth. Her expertise spans advanced transplant procedures, medical therapies and holistic scalp health. Recognized for her precision, compassion and artistry, Dr. Suri stands at the forefront of modern hair restoration, helping men and women achieve lasting, natural-looking results that enhance both appearance and self-assurance.
VIVIDA DERMATOLOGY
Serving three locations throughout the Valley 702-255-6647 vivida.com
PEDIATRICS
Julpohng “JP” Vilai, MD
Dr. Julpohng “JP” Vilai is the Pediatrics Clerkship Director and Assistant Professor of Clinical Sciences at Roseman University College of Medicine and Interim Medical Director for Roseman Medical Group.
A board-certified pediatrician, Vilai joined Roseman in 2023. He’s worked in academic and private practice settings, with roles including medical director for youth homelessness clinics, school-based health programs, pediatric and neonatal hospitalist, co-owner of a private practice, and telemedicine provider for tribal communities.
Vilai helps develop the curriculum for Roseman’s inaugural medical class and oversees the growth of Roseman Medical Group’s family-centered clinic. His clinical interests include infectious disease, chronic care, behavioral health, telehealth, transplantation and adolescent medicine.
He was honored as one of Nevada Business Magazine’s 2025 Healthcare Heroes in the Humanitarian category. He is a devoted husband and father of two and brings warmth, empathy and connection to his work.
ROSEMAN MEDICAL GROUP
5380 S. Rainbow Blvd. Suite 120 Las Vegas, NV 89118
702-463-4040
rosemanmedicalgroup.com
SIX HEALTHY LIFESTYLE HABITS TO SHAPE HEART HEALTH
BY DENISHA LANG, APRN
HChoose healthy foods and drinks. A balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart. Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Choose foods high in fiber and low in saturated and trans fats to help reduce cholesterol and promote overall heart health. Limit processed foods and added sugars, which can raise blood pressure and cholesterol. Because alcohol can also increase blood pressure, drink in moderation—no more than one drink per day for women and two for men, according to the CDC.
eart disease remains the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The encouraging news is that small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a lasting impact. Simple habits, such as eating well and staying active, can help maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. It’s true that building heart-healthy habits does not happen overnight, so start with one small change—take a daily walk, add vegetables to each meal or set a bedtime— and build from there. Each healthy choice adds up, creating longterm benefits. Here are six sciencebacked habits to strengthen your heart and improve your overall health.
Get enough sleep. Quality sleep gives your heart time to rest and repair. Adults who get fewer than seven hours of sleep per night are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, according to research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Too much sleep can also affect heart health—regularly sleeping 10 hours or more has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. To promote better rest, stick to a consistent bedtime, keep your room cool and dark, avoid eating or drinking close to bedtime and stay active during the day.
Denisha Lang, APRN, is an advanced practice registered nurse with Southwest Medical, part of Optum
Manage medical conditions.
If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, managing these conditions is essential for heart health. Check your numbers regularly (including cholesterol, blood pressure and, if diabetic, blood sugar levels) and follow your care plan closely. Take prescribed medications as directed, keep up with followup appointments and don’t stop treatment without consulting your provider.
Get regular physical activity.
Any movement is better than none. Choose an activity you enjoy (such as walking, swimming, biking, dancing, yoga) and make it part of your routine. Regular exercise helps control weight, reduce stress and improve circulation. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, such as brisk walking or cycling. Before increasing your activity level, talk with your doctor, especially if you have a chronic condition or haven’t been active recently.
Don’t smoke. Smoking is one of the most significant preventable causes of heart disease. The CDC reports that smokers are up to four times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than nonsmokers. Quitting, at any age, improves heart health almost immediately. If you need help, your doctor can suggest resources, medications or support programs to make quitting easier.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Carrying extra weight puts additional strain on your heart and blood vessels. According to the National Institutes of Health, obesity-related factors are estimated to cause 11% of heart failure cases in men and 14% in women. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce that risk. Even modest weight loss can make a difference. The American Heart Association notes that losing as little as 5% to 10% of body weight can improve blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar control. Combine regular activity with balanced nutrition for lasting results.
Nevada’s only transplant program on track to perform 200 kidney transplants
Antuna is the public relations coordinator at UMC
BY EMILY ANTUNA
The UMC Transplant Center is on pace to perform 200 kidney transplants in 2025—a record-setting milestone for Nevada’s only transplant program, known for its short wait times and exceptional patient outcomes. Behind that number are 200 stories, 200 lives changed and 200 families kept together.
Retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Frederick Venzie, 83, is one of them. He was on the kidney transplant list for less than two months before receiving the call he had waited for on Jan. 7. “I feel fantastic,” Venzie said. “Since then, it’s been smooth sailing.”
The journey to 200
Venzie’s kidney transplant was one of 100 performed in the first half of 2025. While the increased volume is exciting, the center’s leadership measures success by more than numbers. “We’re focused on providing successful medical outcomes and improving quality of life for our patients,” said Dave Tyrell, clinical director of the UMC Transplant Center.
In 2023, the center was recognized by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients as the nation’s top kidney transplant program, with the shortest time to transplant and the highest one-year kidney survival rate.
“Over the past two years, we’ve not only increased our transplant volumes, but we have also maintained our reputation as a top program with short wait times and a survival rate above the national average, at more than 95%,” said Dr. Sunil Patel, the center’s medical director and lead transplant surgeon.
The secret to success
Patel describes the center’s success as a team effort. “We have the best people in place to help our patients,” he said. “From our dietitians and pharmacists to our transplant coordinators and dedicated nurses, there is a small army of people working together to ensure each patient has the best outcome.”
Venzie credits teamwork with making his recovery a positive experience. “I can’t say enough good things about them,” he said. “Both the teams in the clinic and the hospital somehow made this process enjoyable.”
The staff’s connection with patients goes beyond clinical care. “We’ve really become like family members to our patients because we guide their lives before and after transplant,” said Tyrell, adding that the team has flourished under Patel’s leadership. “He’s a true maverick.”
Since the UMC Transplant Center opened in 1989, nearly 2,000 kidney transplants have been performed. Nearly half have taken place in the past five years, since Patel joined the program. “He’s changed the game,” Tyrell said. “His expertise and innovative spirit make it possible for us to take on cases that other centers won’t.”
Innovation born of necessity
The federal organ allocation system is complex, and many organs procured in Southern Nevada go to other states. “We are competing against metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Phoenix and San Diego, where people have been on the waitlist for almost 10 years,” Patel said.
There is a second allocation system for organs that require more testing and are at
Emily
a greater risk of going to waste. “UMC has become a transplant center that is willing to spend extra time to evaluate organs that are considered less than perfect,” Patel said. Recently, UMC became one of only 17 hospitals nationwide with an inhouse perfusion program, which supplies oxygenated fluid to organs to keep them healthy and viable before transplant. “With such a high kidney survival rate, the results speak for themselves and people around the country are starting to notice what we are doing is working,” he said.
What’s next?
With the success of the kidney transplant program and a growing pancreas transplant
program, UMC leaders are looking to start the process of a liver transplant program. “We are building this program from the ground up, and we are excited to make it to step one,” Tyrell said.
The goal is to have the proper systems in place before performing the first liver transplant in the next couple of years, according to Patel. “I think we’re doing this the right way,” he said. “We are excited for the opportunity to keep setting new standards and get even more patients back to their lives.”
Patients like Venzie are thankful for the chance to start over. “I am back on the golf course, and [my wife] and I are heading on the road to take pictures of the stars,” he said.
Frederick Venzie, right, and his wife, Anne, discuss medications with their dedicated post-transplant nurse.
Gladys Saucedo, registered dietitian at the UMC Transplant Center, above, speaks with a patient and discusses the importance of nutrition ahead of a kidney transplant. (Courtesy photos)
Roseman University applies a different approach to health and wellness
Jason Roth is vice president for communications at Roseman University of Health Sciences
BY JASON ROTH
When some people think of health care, they picture packed waiting rooms, sterile exam rooms, and brief appointments focused on symptoms and prescriptions. Roseman University College of Medicine’s GENESIS program is reversing that model and delivering care directly to Las Vegas families who need it most. In September, Roseman’s inaugural class of 64 medical students began joining community health workers and faculty on household visits.
Health care where life happens
Health care has long operated on the assumption that most problems can be solved in clinics. However, research shows that 80% to 90% of health outcomes depend on factors outside medical facilities including homes, neighborhoods, workplaces and communities. Housing, nutrition, transportation and steady employment—known as the social determinants of health—often matter more than any prescribed medication.
GENESIS doesn’t conduct traditional house calls. Community health workers, joined by medical students and faculty, address the social challenges shaping health outcomes.
Inside a GENESIS household visit
When GENESIS community health workers introduce medical students to new households, conversations go beyond typical medical questions. The team uses a comprehensive assessment examining seven key areas: income stability, nutrition access, housing conditions, technology availability, transportation, employment status and educational resources.
The team uses a comprehensive assessment examining seven key areas: income stability, nutrition access, housing conditions, technology availability, transportation, employment status, and educational resources.
Launched at Las Vegas City Hall in 2022, GENESIS operates on the premise that if most health problems arise in daily life, health care solutions must meet people there.
“We’re looking at the whole picture,” said Pearl Paulo, senior program manager for GENESIS. “A person might come to the emergency room repeatedly for asthma, but if we discover their apartment has mold issues and they can’t afford to move, we’re prepared to address the real problem and not just treating symptoms.”
During household visits, medical students and community health workers collaborate with residents to identify immediate needs and long-term goals. They might link people with job training, assist with housing applications, coordinate transportation to medical appointments or aid in navigating social services.
Building trust in communities
The success of household-centered care depends on trust, which is often broken between health care systems and underserved communities. “The entire GENESIS program is built on a foundation of trust,” said Sheyla Pierre, director of social impact for Roseman University College of Medicine. “We have hired several staff members from these communities and intentionally procure goods and services from these same underserved communities.”
Pierre added that the program’s team reflects the diversity of the communities they serve, with team members fluent in English, Spanish, Tagalog, French and Haitian Creole.
This approach is working. GENESIS currently serves 323 clients and
works with more than 150 community partners. Perhaps most telling, more than 10% of new referrals come from households already in the program.
Real impact in real homes
Fleming Smith is a 66-year-old Spring Valley resident who has been working with GENESIS community health worker Gabriela Kingdom for nearly three years. Living alone in an apartment, Smith initially sought help with transportation to see his primary care provider. Over time, the GENESIS team helped him secure a personal care assistant for his daily needs.
Most recently, Kingdom has been working with Smith to obtain a new electric wheelchair that is critical for someone whose narcolepsy causes frequent falls. “This has
been the most excited he’s felt in a while,” Kingdom said. “We’re now collaborating with his apartment complex to ensure his living space will be safe and accessible when his new wheelchair arrives.”
Smith’s story illustrates how household-centered care evolves with changing needs. What started as transportation assistance expanded into support addressing his safety concerns and living situation. All of it stems from the trust Kingdom has built with Smith.
A new model for health care
As health systems nationwide face rising costs and disparities, the GENESIS household-centered care model offers a promising alternative to traditional approaches. By investing in families’ social conditions, GENESIS demonstrates that health care can be more effective and more humane.
“The goal is to transform risks into assets or protective factors,” said Luther Brewster, Ph.D., Roseman University College of Medicine’s senior executive dean for community health innovation.
“Rather than creating dependency on services, the program helps families develop sustainable solutions to ongoing challenges. This process, called resilience building, helps households maintain improvements even when new life events occur, breaking the cycle where families repeatedly exit and rejoin public assistance programs.”
By bringing health care into homes and communities, GENESIS proves that sometimes the most powerful medicine isn’t found in a clinic. It’s found in understanding and addressing the conditions where people live.
During household visits, medical students and community health workers collaborate with residents to identify immediate needs and long-term goals. (Courtesy photo)
Placenta grafts are advancing burn and wound care surgeries
BY CASSANDRA JONES
It’s been used for decades in specialized medical settings but only recently has placenta-based wound care gained public awareness. As new mothers learn they can donate their placenta after childbirth, hospitals and burn centers are able to put this valuable healing resource to use.
Cassandra Jones is the
Director
of
Media Relations at HCA Healthcare, Far West Division
At Sunrise Hospital, placenta-derived grafts, particularly amnion, have become a mainstay of treatment. “We’ve actually used it for decades,” said Dr. Jay Coates, medical director of the Sunrise Burn and Reconstruction Center. “What’s new is that people are starting to understand its potential and see it move into the mainstream.”
How placenta donation works
Placental tissue is donated after birth, which is a process that occurs in almost every state in the U.S. According to the Nevada Donor Network, the donated placenta is packaged for sterile processing by partner organizations around the country, who process, package, label and work with distributors to transform and transport these gifts. The process takes a minimum of two weeks but may take several months to ensure safety and integrity.
“What placenta does and what many biologics do is help arrest that inflammatory phase. We’ve seen faster healing, better cosmetic results and better threedimensional scar modulation. It’s a superior method to close a burn or a wound.”
Health System, the program is thriving in Nevada. Sunrise Hospital began participating in the placenta donation program in September of 2022, Southern Hills Hospital launched its program in November 2023 and MountainView Hospital in May 2025. This network is committed to innovation that benefits burn patients across the community. In 2024 alone, 1,712 patients donated their placenta and umbilical cord through the Nevada Donor Network, helping to ensure a steady supply of life-changing biologics like amnion.
Why amnion grafts are used
— Dr. Jay Coates
Because of collaboration across the Sunrise
Amniotic membrane grafts are widely used in burn and wound surgeries because they decrease inflammation, promote healing and help prevent infection. “The material acts as a biologic dressing, creating a protective barrier over exposed nerve endings,” Coates said. It reduces the intense pain associated with burns while also decreasing infection risk. Infections remain the leading cause of death among burn patients who survive the initial injury, making early coverage critical.”
The science behind the healing
All wounds go through an inflammatory phase, a necessary but sometimes counterproductive stage of healing. “What placenta
does and what many biologics do is help arrest that inflammatory phase,” Coates said. This modulation can lead to less scarring and improved cosmetic and functional outcomes. “We’ve seen faster healing, better cosmetic results and better three-dimensional scar modulation. It’s a superior method to close a burn or a wound.”
Synergy with other treatments
In the burn unit, amnion is rarely used in isolation. Traditional cadaver grafts, which act like a biological bandage, are still an important tool. “It’s not just one thing or the other,” Coates said. “Sometimes we’ll use amnion under a cadaver graft, and the two work together in synergy.”
Other advanced techniques include ReCell, a “spray-on skin” technology that processes a patient’s own skin cells for application to wounds. “We have access to every kind of modality you can think of,” Coates said. “From traditional grafting to biologics like amnion, our goal is always the same—close the wound as quickly and safely as possible.”
Beyond burns
While amnion is a cornerstone in burn care, its uses extend far beyond. It’s commonly used in orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery and other specialties.
“Anywhere there’s a healing process, you can use it,” Coates said. “It’s really one of the best modalities we have for wound care.”
A leader in patient care
The combination of proven biologics, evolving technologies and a highly skilled multidisciplinary team makes Sunrise’s burn unit a leader in patient care.
“We have great physicians, from the pediatric ICU to the adult ICUs, and a lot of dedicated personnel on both our burn floor and burn ICU. It’s an incredible team to work with,” Coates said.
Placenta-based grafts may be centuries old in concept but in the hands of today’s burn specialists, they represent the cutting edge of healing, bringing together science, innovation and compassion to help patients recover faster with less pain and better outcomes.
Exploring science and trends shaping aging and longevity
Jutta Ward, Ph.D., is the assistant dean of clinical curriculum and professor at Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
Aging cannot be stopped, but the quality of aging may be controlled. Age is less about the number of years lived and more about how the body functions and adapts over time. Rather than focusing on chronological age, biological age offers a clearer measure of health and longevity, shaped more by lifestyle than genetics. Jutta Ward, Ph.D., professor and assistant dean of clinical curriculum at Touro University, shares her insights on what truly drives the aging process.
What is the significance of distinguishing between chronological age and biological age?
Chronological age is simply the number of years and days you have been alive while biological age reflects how old your body seems based on functional, physiological and molecular markers such as physical strength and balance, organ function or inflammation levels. It is a better reflection of the rate of aging and overall health.
What does this shift represent in terms of how we approach longevity, lifespan and health span?
Those who focus on increasing their health span live healthier lives, reducing the burden of care and health care costs.
These terms are often confusing. Lifespan is the maximal amount of time a person can live. Longevity comprises two components: life expectancy and health span. Life expectancy is the actual length of life of an individual or the average length of life within a population. For example, although people can live to be over 100, the life expectancy of an individual living in the U.S. is 78.4 years. Health span represents the time of life lived free from disability or disease—a time we are still supporting physical activity, cognitive acuity and emotional well-being. There are older adults who are not free from disease and have Type 2 diabetes or hypertension; however, if properly managed, these individuals can still maintain their quality of life well into their 80s. Health span also includes quality of life.
Biological age has taken center stage because it helps indicate if someone is aging faster or slower and is predictive of disease risk and mortality. Additionally, preventive strategies, treatments and lifestyle interventions can be tailored to a person based on their biological age, not just chronological age. Bottom line, although we will all age, we are each unique in how the aging process affects us.
What everyday health behaviors should we be engaging in to extend our health span?
The most robust scientific research places physical activity as the leader in disease prevention and longevity. For cardiovascular health, choose an enjoyable activity like walking, cycling, swimming or rowing. Regarding strength training, a gym is not required and can be in the form of body weight exercise, resistance bands, pushing, pulling and carrying household items. Finally, don’t neglect stability. Tai chi, yoga and stretching all contribute to
balance and stability.
Nutrition also improves health span. Focus on vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. These foods are rich in fiber, antioxidants and healthy fats that reduce inflammation and support metabolic health. Eat healthy proteins. Focus on seafood, fish, poultry or protein-rich dairy products like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese and eggs. Beef and pork are also appropriate in moderation. Try to have protein in each meal. And avoid processed foods. Sleep is your friend—do not ignore it. One of the strongest and most consistent findings in sleep research is that those who regularly sleep less than five hours have increased insulin resistance, a key factor in developing Type 2 diabetes. Sleep is the time to rest and activate the calming part of our nervous system. Those who go to bed stressed and restless tend to keep the “fight or flight” side
of the nervous system more active, keeping blood pressure and heart rate higher than necessary, even during sleep. This might explain why long periods of time with inadequate sleep are associated with increased risk of cardiac events.
How do genetic factors contribute to human lifespan? Can we control longevity?
Studies suggest that only 20% to 30% of the variation in lifespan has to do with genetics. Genes may provide a baseline, but how long you live is greatly influenced by lifestyle factors and interactions with the environment. Up to 40% of dementia diagnoses, 70% of strokes and 90% of heart disease cases are linked to modifiable lifestyle factors. The most detrimental lifestyle factor continues to be smoking. Quitting smoking
at any age slows the aging process.
What
are the practical benefits and potential risks of focusing on biological age as a primary health metric, especially in
clinical settings?
Clinically, the greatest benefit to focusing on biological age is that if we can slow biological age, or age more gracefully and healthfully, we hope to increase health span. When individuals focus on their health span, society benefits. Those who focus on increasing their health span live healthier lives, reducing the burden of care and health care costs. The biggest payoff is the years gained in maintaining their quality of life. The focus on health span lies not only in the hands of individuals and patients, but also in encouraging clinicians to focus more on prevention.
Strength through adversity. Growth through perseverance. Since 1931, UMC has been proud to learn and grow alongside a community defi ned by its strength and built on a foundation of innovation.
From offering the state’s only Level I Trauma Center and Verifi ed Burn Center, to stepping forward as an academic leader for the next generation of healers, UMC has stood as a pillar of hope and health for the Las Vegas community. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a brand new part of our community, or just visiting, we stand ready to help anyone and everyone who comes through our doors.
We are an essential resource. A nationally recognized clinical force. And a monument to the truth that strength comes from within.
Book Your Unlocked Clarity Session
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In this 45-minute, one-on-one experience, Dr. Tiffany M. Smith, DNP, founder of Aroma Functional Nutrition Psychiatry and creator of The Unlocked Life™ Method, helps you uncover what your mind and body have been trying to tell you.
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+ HCQ Notes
Intermountain Health held a topping-off ceremony June 3 for its 90,000-square-foot Badura Clinic, its first ground-up construction project in Nevada. The Spring Valley facility, built by Martin-Harris Construction with HDR Inc. as architect, will offer pediatric, women’s health, oncology, radiation therapy and primary care services. This clinic is scheduled to open in early 2026.
Clark County and University Medical Center opened Southern Nevada’s first crisis stabilization center, providing 24/7 psychiatric crisis and detox services. The 17,000-square-foot facility includes 35 outpatient chairs and offers an alternative to emergency rooms and jails for adults experiencing behavioral health crises. The center accepts law enforcement and EMS drop-offs, as well as individuals seeking help voluntarily, offering short-term stabilization for adults regardless of insurance status.
Sunrise Hospital surgeons Dr. Amir Ghaffarian and Dr. Youn Kim performed Nevada’s first zone 0 thoracic branched endograft surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm. The minimally invasive procedure, typically requiring open-heart surgery, was done through small incisions using advanced imaging to insert a stent graft near the heart. The breakthrough reduces pain, blood loss and recovery time.
Silver State Equality condemned the U.S. Supreme Court’s June ruling in United States v. Skrmetti, which upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming health care for transgender youth. State Director André C. Wade called the 6-3 decision a “shameful and dangerous setback” that allows government interference in personal medical decisions. Wade noted that Nevada law still protects access to gender-affirming care and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to defending the rights and safety of transgender youth nationwide.
Dr. Robert M. Frampton was appointed as the next dean of the College of Health and Human Services of Touro University Nevada
Touro University Nevada held its White Coat Ceremony for new medical students on Sept. 7, marking the start of their training. The event featured students receiving their white coats and taking a professional pledge. There were 182 future physicians part of the College of Osteopathic Medicine and 130 students from the College of Health and Human Services.
Sunrise Children’s Heart Surgery Center added two pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons, Dr. Michael Ciccolo and Dr. Sunjay Kaushal. Both are board-certified in cardiac and pediatric thoracic surgery and specialize in complex procedures such as neonatal cardiac surgery, valve repair and single ventricle reconstruction.
HCA Healthcare’s Far West Division opened the HCA Healthcare Center for Clinical Advancement, a 15,000-square-foot simulation and training facility adjacent to Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas. The center, the first of its kind in Nevada, provides
Ghaffarian Kim
Frampton
Ciccolo Kaushal
hands-on, high-tech training for more than 7,000 new nurses and clinical staff across Nevada and California.
Optum Nevada opened its new Cactus Healthcare Center at 1655 E. Cactus Ave. in Henderson. The 82,000-square-foot, four-story facility is Optum’s largest in the state, consolidating adult medicine, specialty care, a pharmacy and wellness services. It also includes a free community center for residents 55 and older.
Select Health awarded $50,000 to 10 Las Vegas-area nonprofits through its annual Select Health Awards program, with each group receiving $5,000 to support community health initiatives. The 2025 recipients were: African Diaspora of Las Vegas, Ability Center of Southern Nevada, Baby’s Bounty, CARE Chest, EyeCare4Kids, FDV Wellness Center, Freedom House Sober Living, Goodie Two Shoes Foundation, Roseman University’s GENESIS Program and S.A.F.E. House. The program, now in its second year in Nevada, supports organizations improving access
to care and services for underserved residents.
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV received a $650,000 grant from the Nevada Department of Public Safety to continue its long-running study on traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Researchers reported that Nevada saw a 46% increase in traffic deaths since 2013, with 421 deaths in 2024 compared with 390 in 2023—an 8% rise in fatal crashes. Pedestrian deaths increased 5% statewide, including a 15% jump in Clark County, while motorcyclist fatalities climbed 28%, from 64 to 82. The study, now in its 14th year, analyzes crash data to identify risk factors and develop prevention strategies for state and local policymakers.
The Renown Transplant Institute in Reno performed its first living donor kidney transplant, marking a milestone for Nevada. The surgery joined local mother Melanie Davis, who donated a kidney, and her daughter, Lanie Hope Smith, who
Continued on page 50
West Henderson Hospital earned primary stroke certification from the Joint Commission and the American Stroke Association. The certification recognizes hospitals that meet strict standards for 24/7 stroke care, including having a dedicated stroke team, rapid imaging and specialized treatment protocols.
We said, “How about today?”
Whether it’s same-day sick appointments or a doctor that takes the time to understand your needs, we’re constantly asking our members how we can do better—and then acting on it. Are you looking for a primary care provider that dares to care more about you as a patient?
Primary Care for Las Vegans Age 60+
+Notes
Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center started a free monthly support group for parents grieving the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth or infant death. The Infant Bereavement Support Group meets every fourth Tuesday at the hospital and provides a space for families to share and receive support.
had end-stage kidney disease. The procedure was completed at Renown Regional Medical Center by a multidisciplinary transplant team.
United Way of Southern Nevada appointed Vjollca Tarjan, market president for Enterprise Bank & Trust, to its board of directors.
Tarjan has more than 20 years of banking experience, including leadership roles at Fleet Bank, US Bank and Wells Fargo. She also served on the boards of the Nevada Bankers Association and Vegas Chamber
Sunrise Hospital named Dr. Sherrie Somers as its chief medical officer. Somers has 30 years of health care leadership experience, including prior
CMO roles at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Louisiana and HCA Florida’s North Florida Hospital. At HCA Florida, she helped launch the Sarah Cannon transplant and cellular therapy program and developed structures for future OB hospitalist and cardiology fellowship programs.
United Way of Southern Nevada promoted Janet Quintero to chief strategy and advocacy officer. Quintero, who joined UWSN in 2018, will continue leading the external affairs department, now expanded with new roles for a government grant administrator and coalition builder.
HealtHIE Nevada announced leadership changes as it works to expand the state’s health information exchange network. Russell Suzuki was named senior director of business and engagement, overseeing finance, administration, and community outreach. Cody Johansen was appointed senior director of technology, leading IT strategy and operations.
Tarjan
Reimagining Healthcare
Roseman University is training the next generation of compassionate and highly competent healthcare providers in pharmacy, nursing, medicine, dental medicine and graduate studies to thrive in the ever-changing world of healthcare.
HOW DO WE REIMAGINE HEALTHCARE?
Developed Roseman Dental Clinics, offering reduced-cost, high-quality Dental and Orthodontic care to adults and children and specialized care for children with cancer and other systemic diseases and those with cleft lip and palate deformities
With more than two decades of building from a firm foundation to a broad universe of healthcare education, Roseman continues to develop innovative programs that train a diverse student body to be exceptional leaders in their chosen fields. We look ahead to the limitless promise of the future, in providing our communities unparalleled patient care, scientific discovery, and commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in our region and beyond.
Via Roseman Medical Group, offering high-value evidence-based family medicine for the entire family as well as GENESIS, offering household-centered care, and EMPOWERED, supporting pregnant and post-partum mothers with substance abuse disorders
Through thousands of dollars annually of donated care to underserved populations in Nevada and Utah
Learn more at roseman.edu
Transforming Education. Reimagining Healthcare. Embracing Discovery. Committed to Community.
