Renown Recognized as Accredited Rectal Cancer Center

Renown Health has been certified by the American College of Surgeons under the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), affirming the ability to provide coordinated, evidence-based care for patients diagnosed with rectal cancer. This distinction signifies that Renown Regional Medical Center meets the highest national standards in the surgical care of people with rectal cancer and is recognized as an American College of Surgeons (ACS) Surgical Quality Partner. Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno is the only surgical program to be nationally accredited in Nevada.

The NAPRC, a quality program of the American College of Surgeons, sets rigorous national standards to ensure patients with rectal cancer receive timely diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and coordinated care across specialties. Programs are evaluated on their ability to deliver care through a multidisciplinary team, track outcomes and continuously improve performance to achieve the best possible patient results.

Achieving Accreditation: National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancers

To earn accreditation, hospitals must meet rigorous quality and safety standards and host an on-site visit by NAPRC expert reviewers. Programs must have a high volume of cancer surgical resections during the most recent calendar year and demonstrate 12 months of compliance with NAPRC standards.

Led by Michael Thomas, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Renown Rectal Cancer Program, the accreditation effort began in October 2023 and culminated in a comprehensive on-site review in September 2025, during which Renown met all 22 program standards with zero deficiencies. The designation was officially awarded on December 12, 2025.

“This certification represents more than meeting a checklist of standards. It reflects years of intentional work to build an integrated rectal cancer program,” said Dr. Thomas. “From the moment a patient enters Renown, their care is guided by a coordinated team that meets regularly, reviews each case in detail and aligns treatment decisions with the best available evidence. Achieving NAPRC certification with zero deficiencies validates the strength of that collaboration and, most importantly, reassures our patients that they are receiving care that meets the highest national benchmarks.”

"Colon and rectal cancer continue to be the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Nevada, affecting numerous families each year. Therefore, prevention, early detection, and access to advanced surgical care are essential," stated Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Renown Health. "We extend our congratulations to Dr. Thomas, his colorectal surgeon colleagues, and the entire Renown surgical team on achieving this notable milestone. Accreditation by the American College of Surgeons recognizes our surgeons’ expertise and the Rectal Cancer Team’s capacity to deliver nationally recognized rectal cancer care. Additionally, it underscores the importance of screening and prompt treatment in improving the lives of our friends and neighbors.

“For patients in northern Nevada and the surrounding rural region, NAPRC certification means access to nationally recognized rectal cancer care close to home,” said Rahul Mediwala, MD, MBA, CEO, Renown Medical Group. “At the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown, we are able to bring together colorectal surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurse navigators and supportive care teams to create individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.”

"Renown is one of just 120 programs, representing less than five percent of cancer programs nationally, to receive this designation," said Chris Nicholas, MHA, FACHE, CEO of Renown Regional Medical Center and COO of Renown Health. “This confirms that patients in northern Nevada and eastern California do not need to leave our community to receive complex, high-quality rectal cancer care. It also reflects Renown’s continued investment in specialized expertise, advanced technology and care models designed around the patient.”

Comprehensive Cancer Care at Renown Health

William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health provides comprehensive cancer care, offering advanced diagnostics, treatment and supportive services in a coordinated, patient-focused environment. Renown’s cancer programs bring together multidisciplinary teams to develop personalized treatment plans that reflect the latest evidence, clinical trials, research and technology.

“NAPRC certification is a reflection of how we approach cancer care across Renown, intentionally, collaboratively and with the patient at the center of every decision,” said Kate Ward, Pharm.D., BCPS, Vice President and Administrator of Oncology Services, Renown Health. “Rectal cancer care is complex and requires seamless coordination across specialties, and this accreditation validates the systems, teams and standards we’ve built to support patients through every phase of their diagnosis and treatment. It also reinforces our broader commitment to ensuring that patients in northern Nevada and eastern California have access to comprehensive, nationally recognized cancer care close to home.”

To Make an Appointment or Referral

Renown Health welcomes surgical referrals. Our board-certified surgeons partner closely with referring clinicians to ensure timely access, clear communication and coordinated care before and after surgery. To make an appointment with a Renown Medical Group primary care provider, schedule an appointment at one of Renown’s primary care locations through MyChart, www.renown.org or call 775-982-5000. Most insurances are accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare. Prominence Health Plan is not accepted.

About Renown Health

As the state’s first not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health is dedicated to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and providing care for all people across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Together with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health improves health and lives through exceptional care, comprehensive education and training, and innovative research to ensure a healthier future for Nevada. To join the team, visit renown.org/careers.