Banner Churchill Community Hospital to Launch Robotic Surgery in August

Banner Churchill Community Hospital will begin offering robotic‑assisted surgery in August, marking a major expansion of advanced medical services for rural patients who previously had to travel to Reno for many procedures. The hospital showcased its newly acquired da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system on May 8 during Nurses Week.

Built in 1996, the hospital has long served as a regional medical hub, and leaders say the new technology represents a significant investment in Fallon, Churchill County, and surrounding communities, including Fernley, Hawthorne, Lovelock, Silver Springs, and areas across Lyon County.

Banner Health is upgrading its surgical robot fleet across its six‑state system as part of its nonprofit mission to reinvest in patient care. The da Vinci Xi system will support minimally invasive gynecologic and abdominal procedures, offering greater precision, smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter recovery times.

“This is a significant step forward for health care in our region,” said Robert Carnahan, chief executive officer of Banner Churchill Community Hospital. “Bringing this level of technology to Fallon means more patients can receive advanced surgical care without having to travel to Reno. It helps us keep our care local, reduces the need for transfers, and ensures our community has access to high‑quality surgical options closer to home.”

Carnahan said the technology will also allow the hospital to perform a wider range of procedures, relieve capacity pressures in Reno‑area hospitals, and support long‑term provider recruitment.

Thomas McCormick, MD, a general surgeon at Banner Churchill, said the system enhances what the surgical team can offer locally. “We are always looking for ways to grow our skills and bring the best possible care to our patients,” he said. “Having this technology allows us to continue advancing what we can offer right here in Fallon.”

The da Vinci Xi system will support OB/GYN providers and general surgeons, including Karen Rodeffer‑Evans, MD; Rick Garcia, MD; Ralph Narinedhat, MD; James Zubernis, MD; and McCormick.

Carnahan added that Banner Health’s investment helps attract and retain providers who want to work in an innovative environment, ultimately benefiting patients and the future of health care in the community.