Shining a Spotlight on Our Team Members and Our 2022 Accomplishments

2022 was a big year for UVA Health. To celebrate, here is a brief video on Connect, which showcases highlights from our clinical care, research, education, and community missions — and the team members who made them happen. Congratulations on all that we have accomplished in the past 365 days — you have done amazing work.

Thank you to everyone on the UVA Health team who made this year so successful. May you have a safe and healthy new year — we’ll see you in 2023!

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:34 p.m. Dec. 28)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 28)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Patient Care

Now Available: Health Maintenance Plans for Advance Directives

An analysis of UVA Epic records shows that only a minority of patients aged 65 and older have an advanced directive in place. To close this care gap, two new health maintenance plans to encourage end-of-life planning for UVA primary care patients 65 and older became available in Epic on Dec. 15. These plans let clinicians quickly see if there is a scanned advance directive from the prior five years. If not, the patient will be due for an Advance Directive Status Review every two years. The review may be completed manually as appropriate. As with all health maintenance activities, individual clinicians will decide if and when to engage in end-of-life care discussions with patients, however it’s anticipated that these new plans will facilitate completing this important task. A tip sheet outlining the new functionality is available in the Epic Learning Library. Please note this is the first of several tools that will be available in the coming months to support advance care planning for ambulatory clinic patients.

Ambulatory

In Case You Missed It: One Team | United on Access Go-Lives and More in the December Ambulatory Progress Report

Stay current on all that’s happening with the Ambulatory transformation in the December edition of the Ambulatory Operations Progress Report, including an update on the very first One Team | United on Access go-lives, the next phase of the Ambulatory Role Delineation Project, and more.

Save the Date: ARD Project Virtual Nursing Town Halls

Friday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 13 | noon-12:45 p.m. | All team members in ambulatory nursing roles and clinic leaders are encouraged to participate in one of two Ambulatory Role Delineation (ARD) Project virtual town halls to share their insights as the ARD team kicks off the next phase of their work focused on nursing roles. The team will solicit feedback on areas of opportunity and invite engagement to help better assess roles and recommend improvements. Connection details and pre-reads are available on the project website.

Operations

Holiday Operational Updates

• Parking and Transportation Modifications | The University Transit Service Red and Blue Lines and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Monday, Jan. 2. Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and the 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Jan. 2. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will not operate on Jan. 1.
• Clinics Closed | Per the clinic holiday schedule, clinics will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2.
• Wahoo West Café: Closed | Through Monday, Jan. 2 | Wahoo West Café is closed for the holidays and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
• UVA Health Update on Hiatus | The UVA Health Update will not be sent on Friday, Dec. 30, or Monday, Jan. 2. It will resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, Jan. 4.

Construction Alerts

• Alderman Road | Through Friday, Jan. 13 | Monday-Friday | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. |Construction to increase water supply will take place on Alderman Road during the weekdays. This work will reduce traffic to one lane. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic.
• Emmet Street Overnight Closures | Through Tuesday, Jan. 17 | Monday-Friday | 8 p.m.-6 a.m. | A new pedestrian bridge will be installed over Emmet Street. This work will take place overnight on weekdays and will require a full closure of Emmet Street between Thomson Road and Stadium Road.
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 2, through Friday, March 3 | Well-drilling will occur at Fontaine Research Park. There will be minimal disruptions, however parking in the immediate area will be impacted.

Reminder: FY24 Technology Proposals Due Soon

Due Friday, Jan. 13 | Health Information and Technology (HIT) recently announced a change to the intake of technology proposals. Previously, proposals were accepted on a rolling basis, and starting immediately, there will be an annual intake cycle. This updated process assesses projects in alignment with annual budgeting and based on organizational priorities and strategic goals. Team members should analyze technology needs and potential acquisitions for the coming fiscal year and submit proposal(s) no later than Jan. 13, 2023, for consideration for the fiscal year 2024 portfolio. You may also resubmit proposals that were not previously selected. To learn more about HIT Governance, including the guiding principles for project selection, please visit the HIT governance website, or contact Kevin Greenwood, Director, Health IT Initiatives & Portfolio, at KTG3H@uvahealth.org.

Leadership

New Leadership Structure Announced for UVA Health Advanced Practice Providers

To support the expansion of our advanced practice providers’ (APP) role, Bill Lombardi has been appointed to the new position of APP Administrator and Sally Miller to the new position of Director of APP Professional Development. Both will support APPs in reaching their full potential through both professional alignment and leadership infrastructure. For details, refer to the Thursday, Dec. 22, email from UVA Health leadership.

Provide Feedback: Take the Town Hall Survey

If you attended the UVA Health Town Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 14, or watched the recording of the event, UVA Health leadership would appreciate your feedback. Please take three minutes to fill out the UVA Health Town Hall feedback survey. This survey will help leaders understand how interesting and valuable the presentation was and what suggestions you may have for future meetings. Thank you in advance!

• Missed the Town Hall? | Catch up by using the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect.

Human Resources

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder and elected Basic Health with HSA for 2023, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you signed the electronic consent form after Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity — Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration.

Update for 2023: UVA Health Orientation

Orientation Schedule | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A |Human Resources will continue to offer UVA Health in-person orientation in 2023. However, due to space constraints, these sessions will continue to be only for Medical Center new hires and international nurse new hires. Masks required.

New Education Benefits in 2023

The Medical Center education benefits are expanding in 2023. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023:

• All benefits-eligible team members will have equal access up to $5,250 (the IRS pre-tax limit) per calendar year for the course benefit.
• You can receive money for education assistance up front or as a reimbursement.
• Program enrollment and payroll procedures will move to Workday.
• The annual Nursing Scholarship will be included in the IRS pre-tax limit of $5,250 with the implementation of Medical Center education benefits in Workday.

Details and frequently asked questions can be found on the new Medical Center Education Benefits website. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, "Medical Center Ed Benefits."

• Medical Center CEO Blog: Tuition Reimbursement — New Benefits in the New Year! | In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses the new tuition reimbursement program that begins in 2023. Read more.

Happenings

UPDATED INFORMATION: Prostate Cancer Support Group | Sharing Our Strength

Tuesday, Jan. 3 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | University Baptist Church Virtual ONLY | UVA Health Cancer Care is offering a virtual prostate cancer support group. The group, led by UVA Health oncology social workers, will create a safe environment in which patients support one another. To participate virtually, please provide an email address when registering. A video link will be sent. To register, contact Ashley Grooms at 434.924.2717 or arg5vk@uvahealth.org.

Submit Nominations Now | Uteam Member of the Month

Deadline: 15th of every month | This program recognizes team members each month for their outstanding service to UVA Health and commitment to our ASPIRE values. Any team member, patient, or visitor may nominate an eligible team member, including individuals from UVA Medical Center, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and UVA Physicians Group. Nominate a colleague.

Mindfulness Classes

• Unwinding Anxiety | Mondays, Jan. 16 to Feb. 20 I 5:30--7 p.m. | Register.
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Jan. 23 to March 13 | 4-6 p.m. | Zoom | Register.
• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction | Thursdays, Feb. 2 to March 23 I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, March 11 | Register.
• Free Mindfulness for UVA Health Employees | Thursdays, Feb. 2 to March 23 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, March 11 | Zoom | Register.
• Mindfulness Renewal | Mondays, March 6-27 I 4-6 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, March 11 | Register.

Nominate: John T. Casteen Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 10 | The Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion invites nominations for the 14th annual John T. Casteen Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award. The award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from the University of Virginia, UVA Health, and University of Virginia’s College at Wise. Details.

Appreciation

2022: Top 10 Stories on Connect

So much has happened this year that 2022 seems like a blur! To help you remember, the Connect team looked back at the Top 10 most-clicked stories from the last 365 days to highlight memorable moments. Thanks to all of our team members for your commitment, care, and compassion — the UVA Health team is truly extraordinary. Read the Top 10 Connect Stories of 2022.

PREVIOUS UPDATE

Friday, Dec. 23, 2022

Happy Holidays, UVA Health Team Members!

On Friday, Dec. 23, UVA Health leadership shared the following message via email: “The holiday season is upon us and soon the calendar will turn to a new year. As we reflect on 2022, we have so much to celebrate and be thankful for as a UVA Health family. Looking ahead to 2023 we will continue to build on the foundation and successes of the past year, ensuring patients are first in everything we do. You — our 16,000 team members — are the heartbeat of our organization. We have profound gratitude for your deep commitment and for the extraordinary care and compassion you provide to our patients each and every day.
 
“Thank you for being part of our journey to transform health and inspire hope for all Virginians and beyond. We hope you and your families have a joyful and peaceful holiday season.”

• Video | UVA Health leaders read a heartwarming patient letter.

Christmas Day Meals for Team Members

Sunday, Dec. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria | Thank you to all who are caring for our patients over the holidays. A free meal will be provided to team members who are working on Christmas Day and show their ID badges.

Operations

Holiday Operational Updates

• Parking and Transportation Modifications | The University Transit Service Red and Blue Lines and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Monday, Dec. 26, or Monday, Jan. 2. Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Dec. 26 and Jan. 2. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will not operate on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
• Clinics Closed | Per the clinic holiday schedule, clinics will be closed on Monday, Dec. 26.
• Wahoo West Café: Closed for the Holidays | Monday, Dec. 26, to Monday, Jan. 2 | Wahoo West Café will be closed for the holidays and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
• UVA Health Update on Hiatus | The UVA Health Update will not be sent on Monday, Dec. 26. The next edition will be sent on Wednesday, Dec. 28.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022

Opportunity for Feedback: Take the Town Hall Survey

If you attended the UVA Health Town Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 14, or watched the recording of the event, UVA Health leadership would appreciate your feedback. Please take three minutes to fill out the UVA Health Town Hall feedback survey. This survey will help leaders understand how interesting and valuable the presentation was and what suggestions you may have for future meetings. Thank you in advance!

Missed the Town Hall? Catch the Replay

If you missed last week’s Town Hall, you can catch up with the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect. In this special year-end celebration, K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders were joined by NBC29’s Kasey Hott, local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights. Included in the presentation were reflections on T32 training grants, a $12 million National Institutes of Health autism grant, innovative teaching, our men's health partnership with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, stories of compassionate patient care, a celebration of UVA Health's 1,000th stem cell transplant, and a year-end wrap-up video. Watch on Connect or on Vimeo.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:20 p.m. Dec. 21)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 21)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

UVA Health No Longer Offering Third Doses of Pfizer Monovalent COVID Vaccine to Children in the 6-Months to 4-Years Age Group

Recently, the FDA amended emergency use authorization of the updated bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, which target both the original strain of COVID-19 and the omicron variant, to include children ages 6 months to 4 years. The previously authorized three-dose Pfizer-BioNTech primary series for this age group has been revised as follows:

• First and second doses — Monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
• Third primary series dose — Bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, to be given at least 8 weeks after the second monovalent primary series dose.
• Booster dose — A booster dose is not currently authorized for children in this age group who receive a Pfizer-BioNTech three-dose primary series, including children who previously received a three-dose monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech primary series. An update from the FDA is expected on this in January.

How this change impacts patient care:

• UVA Health is only administering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and expects to begin administering the bivalent vaccine to children 6 months to 4 years early next year. Details will be shared soon.
• We will no longer use the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as a third dose to patients 6 months to 4 years of age.
• Action to take now: If your clinic has not already done so, appointments for monovalent Pfizer third doses in children 6 months to 5 years must be canceled and rescheduled when the bivalent COVID vaccine for this age group is available.

Patient Care

Now Available: Health Maintenance Plans for Advance Directives

An analysis of UVA Epic records shows that only a minority of patients aged 65 and older have an advanced directive in place. To close this care gap, two new health maintenance plans to encourage end-of-life planning for UVA primary care patients 65 and older became available in Epic on Thursday, Dec. 15. These plans let clinicians quickly see if there is a scanned advance directive from the prior five years. If not, the patient will be due for an Advance Directive Status Review every two years. The review may be completed manually as appropriate. As with all health maintenance activities, individual clinicians will decide if and when to engage in end-of-life care discussions with patients, however it’s anticipated that these new plans will facilitate completing this important task. A tip sheet outlining the new functionality is available in the Epic Learning Library. Please note this is the first of several tools that will be available in the coming months to support advance care planning for ambulatory clinic patients.

Ambulatory

Save the Date: ARD Project Virtual Nursing Town Halls

Friday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 13 | noon-12:45 p.m. | All team members in ambulatory nursing roles and clinic leaders are encouraged to participate in one of two Ambulatory Role Delineation (ARD) Project virtual town halls to share their insights as the ARD team kicks off the next phase of their work focused on nursing roles. The team will solicit feedback on areas of opportunity and invite engagement to help better assess roles and recommend improvements. Connection details and pre-reads are available on the project website.

Operations

Winter Weather Storm Advisory for UVA Permit Parkers

UVA Facilities Management makes every effort to efficiently and thoroughly remove snow for our parking lots and garages on Grounds and at remote locations. However, snow amounts, storm timing, and refreeze after the event can make lot and walkway clearing a challenge. When parking in a UVA lot, please consider the following advice for making your trip as safe as possible:  

• Choose your footwear with snow and ice in mind, even if it means bringing a second pair to change into at work. Even the best footwear treads are no match for ice, so …
• Allow extra time for travel, checking for icy spots as you walk or drive. The safest path may not be your usual route.
• Roads and walkways cannot always be completely cleared of slick spots, especially if there have been periods of melt and refreeze. If you identify areas that need to be treated or retreated, please report it as soon as possible to the number below and provide details on the location. Many parking spaces in permitted lots and garages are numbered, and that is a good identifier.   

Please call the UVA Facilities call center 434.924.2267 to report any areas that are slick and need to be salted or sanded.

Holiday Meals and Operational Updates

• Christmas Day Meals for Team Members | Sunday, Dec. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria | A free meal will be provided to team members who are working on Christmas Day and show their ID badges.
• Parking and Transportation Modifications | The University Transit Service Red and Blue Lines and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Monday, Dec. 26, or Monday, Jan. 2. Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Dec. 26 and Jan. 2. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will not operate on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
• Wahoo West Café: Closed for the Holidays | Monday, Dec. 26, to Monday, Jan. 2 | Wahoo West Café will be closed for the holidays and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Construction Alerts

• Lee Street Garage | Through Thursday, Dec. 29 | An exit lane and select areas near garage railings will be closed for patient parking. Signage is in place to prevent parking in the impacted spaces. If the Lee Street garage reaches capacity, patients will be directed to park in the 11th Street garage. Traffic congestion may result. There is no expected impact for team members who park in the 11th Street garage.
• Alderman Road | Through Friday, Jan. 13 | Monday-Friday | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. |Construction to increase water supply will take place on Alderman Road during the weekdays. This work will reduce traffic to one lane. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic.
• Emmet Street Overnight Closures | Through Tuesday, Jan. 17 | Monday-Friday | 8 p.m.-6 a.m. | A new pedestrian bridge will be installed over Emmet Street. This work will take place overnight on weekdays and will require a full closure of Emmet Street between Thomson Road and Stadium Road.

Update: Concern Regarding Commuter Parking Payroll Reimbursement

Parking and Transportation (P&T) has been made aware of a payroll reimbursement issue for commuter parkers in the Red and Blue lots (Scott Stadium and Emmet/Ivy Garage). P&T has identified the issue that impacted a small subset of parkers. This should be corrected and applied in the upcoming paycheck. Questions? Email ASKHR@virginia.edu.

Sign Up for the Blue Ridge Poison Center’s Newsletter for a Chance to Win a Prize

Deadline: Monday, Jan. 9, 2023 | UVA’s Blue Ridge Poison Center team offers fast, free, and expert help through a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week hotline, and they are passionate about reducing the risk of poisoning among team members and their families. The Poison Center offers two newsletters to keep you informed on poisoning trends, prevention tips, news, and more: Sign up for the ToxTalks newsletter (for clinicians) or The Antidote newsletter (for general audiences). Those who sign up with a UVA email address by Jan. 9 will be entered to win a prize. Five team members will be randomly selected to receive a PoisonHelp mug with treats. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Poison Center.

Wahoo West Café Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 23 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the West Café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog: A Year in Review

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, thanks team members for their incredible work and shares highlights from 2022. Read more.

Human Resources

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder and elected Basic Health with HSA for 2023, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you signed the electronic consent form after Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity — Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration.

Update for 2023: UVA Health Orientation

Orientation Schedule | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A |Human Resources will continue to offer UVA Health in-person orientation in 2023. However, due to space constraints, these sessions will continue to be only for Medical Center new hires and international nurse new hires. Masks required.

New Education Benefits in 2023

The Medical Center education benefits are expanding in 2023. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023:

• All benefits-eligible team members will have equal access up to $5,250 (the IRS pre-tax limit) per calendar year for the course benefit.
• You can receive money for education assistance up front or as a reimbursement.
• Program enrollment and payroll procedures will move to Workday.
• The annual Nursing Scholarship will be included in the IRS pre-tax limit of $5,250 with the implementation of Medical Center education benefits in Workday.

Details and frequently asked questions can be found on the new Medical Center Education Benefits website. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, "Medical Center Ed Benefits."

Happenings

SNMA Toy Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 23 | In partnership with UVA Health’s Office of Diversity & Community Engagement, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is sponsoring a toy drive for the children of the Westhaven community and children and adults affiliated with WellAWARE and Abundant Life Ministries. There are two ways to donate:

• Gift cards | Buy a $20 gift card from Old Navy, Target, Amazon, DSW, BP, Walmart, Kohl’s, Food Lion, Giant, Harris Teeter, or Exxon.
• Cash | Venmo any amount to @UVASNMA, and the SNMA will use the donation to buy gift cards. Don’t have Venmo? Donate cash or write a check. Contact Eoin Bradley at suq9fb@virginia.edu, Joselyne Tonleu at tfw9hn@virginia.edu, or Jackie Martin at jgm9u@uvahealth.org.

However you decide to donate, please sign up here. The deadline for donations is Friday, Dec. 23. Drop-off locations are in the student lounge in the Claude Moore Medical Education Building and in the Health Sciences Library. Download the flier from Connect.

Last Chance to Donate Blood this Year!

Thursday, Dec. 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. Swag alert: All donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt (while supplies last). Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

Appreciation

Thank You, Santa (and Dr. Sinkin!), for the Special NICU Visit

Santa Claus recently visited the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at UVA Children’s to take photos with babies and their families. NICU team members coordinated the annual photo shoot so families can have a special memento of their baby to mark the holidays. Special thanks to Dr. Robert Sinkin, a UVA Health neonatologist, who has played Santa for the last 39 years, and will be retiring as Santa following this year’s event. Thank you for bringing so much joy to our patients and their families during the holiday seasons for the past four decades, Dr. Sinkin — you will be missed! Photos from Santa and Mrs. Claus' special visit can be seen on Connect.

Monday, Dec. 19, 2022

At Season’s Treatings Event, Parents Selected Gifts for Their Hospitalized Children

Last week, parents of children hospitalized at UVA Children’s were invited to do some “secret shopping” for their children at a holiday shop inside the hospital. UVA Child Life Specialists and the Patient Family Centered Care Committee of the UVA Children’s Advisory Board hosted the Season’s Treatings event. Gifts were donated by UVA employees, local donors, and other local organizations including Operation BradyStrong Mission M&M Christmas Toy Drive and the “Stuff the Saddlebags” toy drive. All gifts were free to families.

Thank you to all who donated and participated in making this event so successful! To see photos, visit Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:04 p.m. Dec. 19)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 19)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Patient Care

Now Available: Health Maintenance Plans for Advance Directives

An analysis of UVA Epic records shows that only a minority of patients aged 65 and older have an advanced directive in place. To close this care gap, two new health maintenance plans to encourage end-of-life planning for UVA primary care patients 65 and older became available in Epic on Thursday, Dec. 15. These plans let clinicians quickly see if there is a scanned advance directive from the prior five years. If not, the patient will be due for an Advance Directive Status Review every two years. The review may be completed manually as appropriate. As with all health maintenance activities, individual clinicians will decide if and when to engage in end-of-life care discussions with patients, however it’s anticipated that these new plans will facilitate completing this important task. A tip sheet outlining the new functionality is available in the Epic Learning Library. Please note this is the first of several tools that will be available in the coming months to support advance care planning for ambulatory clinic patients.

Ambulatory

Save the Date: ARD Project Virtual Nursing Town Halls

Friday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 13 | noon-12:45 p.m. | All team members in ambulatory nursing roles and clinic leaders are encouraged to participate in one of two Ambulatory Role Delineation (ARD) Project virtual town halls to share their insights as the ARD team kicks off the next phase of their work focused on nursing roles. The team will solicit feedback on areas of opportunity and invite engagement to help better assess roles and recommend improvements. Connection details and pre-reads are available on the project website.

Operations

Update: Respiratory Fit Testing Program Will Restart

As of January 2023, annual respiratory fit testing (RFT) will become mandatory once again for certain Tier 1 team members, and fit testers for off-site locations will need to complete a new training program. Team members who are due to complete their annual testing will be notified by Employee Health at the start of their birth month. They will have until the end of that month to complete testing. Read more on Connect. Details:

• Who must complete testing? | According to UVA Health’s Occupational Health Screening and Maintenance Policy (OCH-002), Tier 1 team members who provide patient care within the University Hospital or within any ambulatory clinic with a negative pressure room are required to undergo annual RFT. Hospital Epidemiology may determine that other groups are required to undergo RFT.
• New training requirements for fit testers | Off-site clinics can designate a person to perform fit testing for their teams, and that individual must complete the new training program and annual competency training. Designed to ensure compliance with HIPAA rules and other regulatory standards, the training includes a computer-based learning module and one-hour in-person class at Employee Health facilities. For more information, email Jimmy Fry, Employee Health RFT Coordinator, at PFG4WU@uvahealth.org.

Wahoo West Café Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 23 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the West Café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Holiday Meals and Operational Updates

• Christmas Day Meals for Team Members | Sunday, Dec. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria | A free meal will be provided to team members who are working on Christmas Day and show their ID badges.
• Parking and Transportation Modifications for the Holidays | The University Transit Service Red and Blue Lines and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Monday, Dec. 26, or Monday, Jan. 2, 2023. Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will not operate on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1.
• Wahoo West Café: Closed for the Holidays | Monday, Dec. 26, to Monday, Jan. 2 | Wahoo West Café will be closed for the holidays and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Leadership

Missed the Town Hall? Catch the Replay

If you missed last week’s Town Hall, you can catch up with the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect. In this special year-end celebration, K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders were joined by NBC29’s Kasey Hott, local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights. Included in the presentation were reflections on T32 training grants, a $12 million National Institutes of Health autism grant, innovative teaching, our men's health partnership with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, stories of compassionate patient care, a celebration of UVA Health's 1,000th stem cell transplant, and a year-end wrap-up video. Watch on Connect or on Vimeo.

Human Resources

Education Benefit Due for 2022

Medical Center deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 20 | Please submit your education benefit to ensure payment in 2022. The deadline for the Academic Division has already passed. Requests submitted after these dates may not count toward your 2022 limits. Visit the Education Benefits webpage for additional info on education benefits.

Happenings

SNMA Toy Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 23 | In partnership with UVA Health’s Office of Diversity & Community Engagement, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is sponsoring a toy drive for the children of the Westhaven community and children and adults affiliated with WellAWARE and Abundant Life Ministries. There are two ways to donate:

• Gift cards | Buy a $20 gift card from Old Navy, Target, Amazon, DSW, BP, Walmart, Kohl’s, Food Lion, Giant, Harris Teeter, or Exxon.
• Cash | Venmo any amount to @UVASNMA, and the SNMA will use the donation to buy gift cards. Don’t have Venmo? Donate cash or write a check. Contact Eoin Bradley at suq9fb@virginia.edu, Joselyne Tonleu at tfw9hn@virginia.edu, or Jackie Martin at jgm9u@uvahealth.org.

However you decide to donate, please sign up here. The deadline for donations is Friday, Dec. 23. Drop-off locations are in the student lounge in the Claude Moore Medical Education Building and in the Health Sciences Library. Download the flier from Connect.

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 21 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Last Chance to Donate Blood this Year!

Thursday, Dec. 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. Swag alert: All donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt (while supplies last). Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall | Ground Floor | Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers can get a new or updated headshot taken for the provider directory on the dates listed below. No appointment is needed. The shoot should take 10 minutes or less. Please bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Wednesday, Dec. 21 | 7-10 a.m.  
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 20 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 25 | 8-11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Jan. 31 | noon-3 p.m.

Providers: Please make sure your online profile is accurate, up to date, and complete — including a provider profile video. Details and scheduling.

Continuing Medical Education: Free Training in LGBTQ+ Patient Centered Care

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 1, 2023 | Because UVA Health is a participant in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index, our team members have access to more than 200 free, on-demand, CME-accredited LGBTQ+ training options. These include interactive eLearning courses and webinars (live and recorded) from the National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center and the Center for Affiliated Learning (CAL).

• National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center courses | Register. (Facility ID: 55856.)
• The CAL courses | Register. (Facility ID: 55856. Security keyword: HRC.)

As part of UVA Health’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, we encourage all team members to participate in these free trainings by Sept. 1. (Don’t forget to use our facility ID!) Doing so will help UVA Health remain a leader in LGBTQ+ healthcare equality. For more information, contact Tonya Fredericks at TRF4G@uvahealth.org or Bizz Glover at EBG7F@uvahealth.org.

Appreciation

Kudos From Senator Warner for LGBTQ+ Inclusive Policies and Practices

In early 2022, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation awarded UVA Health with the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader Award for having met criteria within the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). HEI promotes LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and affirming practices in healthcare facilities and formally recognizes those facilities that lead the field in LGBTQ+ inclusion. The award recognizes facilities that demonstrate leadership in these areas. The University of Virginia Medical Center, Haymarket Medical Center, and Prince William Medical Center are the only three facilities in the state of Virginia to have achieved this level of recognition.

Recently, United States Senator Mark Warner (pictured), wrote to congratulate us on the achievement, saying, “This honor is a testament to UVA Health’s commitment to ensuring that high-quality medical services are available to all Virginians. It is so vital that all individuals are awarded the same dignity and respect regardless of who they are, what they look like, or who they love. It is clear that your practices and policies are designed to ensure the equitable treatment of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and staff. I commend you for your tremendous service and leadership.” Thank you for the kind words, Senator Warner!

The UVA Medical Center’s achievement would not have been possible without the contributions of the members of the LGBTQ+ & Transgender Advisory Committee and tireless efforts from its former co-chair, Bush Bell, Administrator, Hospitality and Support Services. Thank you to all at UVA Health who work to create an inclusive environment of healing.

Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

Team Member Success Stories and a Celebratory Video Were the Focus of This Week’s Town Hall

Speed-Watcher’s Guide Now Available | If you missed this week’s Town Hall, you can catch up with the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect. In this special year-end celebration, K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders were joined by NBC29’s Kasey Hott, local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights.

Included in the presentation were reflections on T32 training grants, a $12 million National Institutes of Health autism grant, innovative teaching, our men's health partnership with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, stories of compassionate patient care, a celebration of UVA Health's 1,000th stem cell transplant, and a year-end wrap-up video. Watch on Connect or on Vimeo.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:19 p.m. Dec. 16)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 16)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Ambulatory

Save the Date: ARD Project Virtual Nursing Town Halls

Friday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 13 | noon-12:45 p.m. | All team members in ambulatory nursing roles and clinic leaders are encouraged to participate in one of two Ambulatory Role Delineation (ARD) Project virtual town halls to share their insights as the ARD team kicks off the next phase of their work focused on nursing roles. The team will solicit feedback on areas of opportunity and invite engagement to help better assess roles and recommend improvements. Connection details and pre-reads are available on the project website.

Operations

Concern: Commuter Parking Payroll Reimbursement

Parking and Transportation has been made aware of a payroll reimbursement issue for commuter parkers in the Red and Blue lots (Scott Stadium and Emmet/Ivy Garage). Problem-solving is underway, and updates will be provided as soon as possible. Questions? Email ASKHR@virginia.edu.

Construction Alerts

• Alderman Road | Monday, Dec. 19, to Friday, Jan. 13 | Monday-Friday | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Construction to increase water supply will take place on Alderman Road during the weekdays. This work will reduce traffic to one lane. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic.
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 2, through Friday, March 3 | Well-drilling will occur at Fontaine Research Park. There will be minimal disruptions, however parking in the immediate area will be impacted.

Wahoo West Café Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 23 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the West Café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Sign Up for the Blue Ridge Poison Center’s Newsletter for a Chance to Win a Prize

Deadline: Monday, Jan. 9, 2023 | UVA’s Blue Ridge Poison Center team offers fast, free, and expert help through a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week hotline, and they are passionate about reducing the risk of poisoning among team members and their families. The Poison Center offers two newsletters to keep you informed on poisoning trends, prevention tips, news, and more: Sign up for the ToxTalks newsletter (for clinicians) or The Antidote newsletter (for general audiences). Those who sign up with a UVA email address by Jan. 9 will be entered to win a prize. Five team members will be randomly selected to receive a PoisonHelp mug with treats. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Poison Center.

Human Resources

Information Sessions: Medical Center Hiring Process

Monday, Dec. 19 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Zoom, passcode: 384817 | The Human Resources recruitment team invites Medical Center hiring managers to join this information session which will provide an overview of the new hiring process as well as available resources.

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder and elected Basic Health with HSA for 2023, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you signed the electronic consent form after Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity — Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration.

New Education Benefits in 2023

The Medical Center education benefits are expanding in 2023. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023:

• All benefits-eligible team members will have equal access up to $5,250 (the IRS pre-tax limit) per calendar year for the course benefit.
• You can receive money for education assistance up front or as a reimbursement.
• Program enrollment and payroll procedures will move to Workday.
• The annual Nursing Scholarship will be included in the IRS pre-tax limit of $5,250 with the implementation of Medical Center education benefits in Workday.

Details and frequently asked questions can be found on the new Medical Center Education Benefits website. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Medical Center Ed Benefits.”

Update for 2023: UVA Health Orientation

Orientation Schedule | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A |Human Resources will continue to offer UVA Health in-person orientation in 2023. However, due to space constraints, these sessions will continue to be only for Medical Center new hires and international nurse new hires. Masks required.

Community

Time Is Running Out to Give to the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign

Through Monday, Dec. 19 | The annual Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) is an opportunity for UVA team members to support nonprofits doing important work in the Charlottesville area and across the state. In the past 24 years, UVA employees have raised $18 million, surpassing not only every Virginia college and university but all state agencies. Contribute today. Learn more on Connect.

Happenings

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline extended: Wednesday, Dec. 21 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

SNMA Toy Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 23 | In partnership with UVA Health’s Office of Diversity & Community Engagement, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is sponsoring a toy drive for the children of the Westhaven community and children and adults affiliated with WellAWARE and Abundant Life Ministries. There are two ways to donate:

• Gift cards | Buy a $20 gift card from Old Navy, Target, Amazon, DSW, BP, Walmart, Kohl’s, Food Lion, Giant, Harris Teeter, or Exxon.
• Cash | Venmo any amount to @UVASNMA, and the SNMA will use the donation to buy gift cards. Don’t have Venmo? Donate cash or write a check. Contact Eoin Bradley at suq9fb@virginia.edu, Joselyne Tonleu at tfw9hn@virginia.edu, or Jackie Martin at jgm9u@uvahealth.org.

However you decide to donate, please sign up here. Donations due Friday, Dec. 23. Drop-off locations are in the student lounge in the Claude Moore Medical Education Building and in the Health Sciences Library (after Dec. 17). Download the flier from Connect .

Last Chance to Donate Blood this Year!

Thursday, Dec. 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. Swag alert: All donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt (while supplies last). Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

Mindfulness Classes

• Free Mindfulness for UVA Healthcare Employees | Thursdays, Feb. 2, through March 23 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, March 11 | Zoom | Register.
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Jan. 23-March 13 | 4-6 p.m. | Zoom | Register.

Appreciation

Thank You for 5 Years of Awesome, Amy!

For the past five years, Amy Hughes, Senior Communications Strategist, has worked tirelessly writing stories for Connect and the UVA Health Update, and served myriad other communications needs. Her efforts helped keep our 16,000+ team members informed and engaged. Today is her last day working for UVA Health. Brian Murphy, Ellen McKenna, Rob Kidwell, and all of her colleagues in the Office of Strategic Marketing & Communications would like to express their gratitude for her outstanding work. Please join us in wishing Amy well in her next career endeavors. We’ll miss you! (Submissions for the UVA Health Update can continue to be sent to Brian Murphy at bpm3q@uvahealth.org.)

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022

Missed Today’s Town Hall? Catch Up Here

This special year-end edition was hosted by NBC29 anchor Kasey Hott and featured six applause-worthy stories and a round up of a small sampling of our accomplishments from 2022. If you missed the event, you can watch the replay. Stay tuned here on the UVA Health Update and on Connect in the coming days for the speed-watcher’s guide and answers to submitted questions.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 2:05 p.m. Dec. 14)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 14)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Patient Care

Molecular Microbiology Lab to Provide In-House Monkeypox Testing 

Begins Thursday, Dec. 15 | Details:

• Order name is MPox Qualitative PCR - Searchable with “Monkeypox.”
• Tests will be performed once daily.
• If testing is needed emergently, please page the Clinical Microbiology director on call at PIC 1221.
• Collection and packaging guidelines remain the same.
• Required information for test order remains the same (Specimen type, Anatomic location of lesion, Ethnicity, Race).
• Contact the Clinical Microbiology director on call at PIC 1221 with questions or concerns.

Health Maintenance Plans for Advance Directives Go Live Dec. 15

An analysis of UVA Epic records shows that only a minority of patients aged 65 and older have an advanced directive in place. To close this care gap, on Thursday, Dec. 15, two new health maintenance plans to encourage end-of-life planning for UVA primary care patients 65 and older will be available in Epic. These plans will let clinicians quickly see if there is a scanned advance directive from the prior five years. If not, the patient will be due for an Advance Directive Status Review every two years. The review may be completed manually as appropriate. As with all health maintenance activities, individual clinicians will decide if and when to engage in end-of-life care discussions with patients, however it’s anticipated that these new plans will facilitate completing this important task. A tip sheet outlining the new functionality is available in the Epic Learning Library. Please note this is the first of several tools that will be available in the coming months to support advance care planning for ambulatory clinic patients.

Operations

Emergency Management Advises Team Members to Prepare for Winter Weather Events

In the spirit of keeping everyone as safe as possible, a message sent by Emergency Management today encourages all team members to begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify operations, alter parking locations and bus service schedules, and require some team members to remain in or near our patient care facilities after their shift ends. Steps that can be taken now:

• Review the policy that covers reporting requirements for your work area.
• Verify your reporting status with your manager (Designated team members must report to work during inclement weather events; non-designated team members do not).
• Ensure your personal safety by developing a family emergency plan, putting together a basic disaster supplies kit, checking the UVA Medical Center Status Board, signing up for UVA Alerts, and more.

Read the full message on Connect. 

Wahoo West Café Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 23 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the west café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Annual Deadline Approaching for HIT Technology Proposals

Deadline: Friday, Jan. 13, 2023 | As announced, Health Information and Technology (HIT) is no longer accepting and reviewing technology proposals on a rolling basis and has switched to an annual intake cycle. This change aligns with annual budgeting, organizational priorities, and strategic goals. Team members should analyze technology needs and potential acquisitions for the coming fiscal year and submit proposal(s) no later than Jan. 13, 2023, for consideration for the fiscal year 2024 portfolio. Proposals that were not previously selected for support can be resubmitted. To learn more about HIT Governance, including the guiding principles for project selection, please visit the HIT Governance website, or contact Kevin Greenwood, Director, Health IT Initiatives & Portfolio, at KTG3H@uvahealth.org. Read more on Connect.

Construction Alerts 

• Lee Street Garage | Through Thursday, Dec. 29 | An exit land and select areas near garage railings will be closed for patient parking. Signage is in place to prevent parking in the impacted spaces. If the Lee Street garage reaches capacity, patients will be directed to park in the 11th Street garage. Traffic congestion may result. There is no expected impact for team members who park in the 11th Street garage.
• Emmet Street Overnight Closures | Through Tuesday, Jan. 17 | Monday-Friday | 8 p.m.-6 a.m. | A new pedestrian bridge will be installed over Emmet Street. This work will take place overnight on weekdays and will require a full closure of Emmet Street between Thomson Road and Stadium Road.
• Alderman Road | Monday, Dec. 19, to Friday, Jan. 13 | Monday-Friday | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Construction to increase water supply will take place on Alderman Road during the weekdays. This work will reduce traffic to one lane. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic. 

Parking and Transportation Modifications for the Holidays

The University Transit Service Red and Blue Lines and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Monday, Dec. 26, or Monday, Jan. 2, 2023. Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will not operate on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog: Help Is on the Way

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses staffing and innovative ways that we are working to address ongoing staffing challenges. Read more.

Human Resources

Information Sessions: Medical Center Hiring Process 

Monday, Dec. 19 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Zoom, passcode: 384817 | The Human Resources recruitment team invites Medical Center hiring managers to join this information session which will provide an overview of the new hiring process as well as available resources.

Education Benefit Due for 2022

Medical Center deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 20 | Please submit your education benefit to ensure payment in 2022. The deadline for the Academic Division has already passed. Requests submitted after these dates may not count toward your 2022 limits. Visit the Education Benefits webpage for additional info on education benefits.

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder and elected Basic Health with HSA for 2023, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you have already signed the electronic consent form since Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity — Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration. (Note date correction.)

Community

Final Days to Make Your Gift to the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign

Through Monday, Dec. 19 | The annual Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) is an opportunity for UVA team members to support nonprofits doing important work in the Charlottesville area and across the state. In the past 24 years, UVA employees have raised $18 million, surpassing not only every Virginia college and university but all state agencies. Contribute today. Learn more on Connect.

Happenings

Book and Gift Sale 

Through Friday, Dec. 16 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | Link outside of Primary Care Center | This sale is sponsored by and benefits the UVA Hospital Auxiliary.

Live Performance by the Burley Middle School "Bearettes" Chorus

Friday, Dec. 16 | 10-10:30 a.m. | University Hospital lobby | Gather in the hospital main lobby for a special holiday performance from the Burley Middle School "Bearettes" Advanced Treble Chorus directed by Craig Jennings. If you have any questions, please contact Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Deadline Extended: 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award

New deadline: Friday, Dec. 16 | 4 p.m. | This award is presented to a student, faculty, or staff member of the health system who embodies Dr. Martin Luther King's values and teachings in cultural competence, healthcare disparities, or fostering an environment of inclusiveness, in accordance with the institution's mission and values. To nominate, please email a completed packet including a nomination form and letter of support in a Word document or PDF to Margaret Natter Bernhardt, dtm3fq@uvahealth.org. Questions? Call 434.297.7013. Read more on Connect.

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline extended: Wednesday, Dec. 21 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

SNMA Toy Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 23 | In partnership with UVA Health’s Office of Diversity & Community Engagement, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is sponsoring a toy drive for the children of the Westhaven community and children and adults affiliated with WellAWARE and Abundant Life Ministries. There are two ways to donate:

• Gift cards | Buy a $20 gift card from Old Navy, Target, Amazon, DSW, BP, Walmart, Kohl’s, Food Lion, Giant, Harris Teeter, or Exxon.
• Cash | Venmo any amount to @UVASNMA, and the SNMA will use the donation to buy gift cards. Don’t have Venmo? Donate cash or write a check. Contact Eoin Bradley (suq9fb@virginia.edu), Joselyne Tonleu (tfw9hn@virginia.edu), or Jackie Martin (jgm9u@uvahealth.org).

However you decide to donate, please sign up here. Donations due Friday, Dec. 23. Drop-off locations are in the student lounge in the Claude Moore Medical Education Building and in the Health Sciences Library (after Dec. 17). Download the flier from Connect. 

Nominate: John T. Casteen Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 | The Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion invites nominations for the 14th annual John T. Casteen Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award. The award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from the University of Virginia, UVA Health, and University of Virginia’s College at Wise. Details. 

Appreciation

Move Over Elf on the Shelf, SIMU Steve Is Making the Rounds This Season

Lauren Bentley, Inpatient Charge Nurse, Surgical Intermediate Care Unit (SIMU), started a new holiday tradition this year: SIMU Steve. This little elf has been spreading cheer around University Hospital this season, visiting various teams to bring smiles and treats. Steve travels at night through the tube system (to avoid getting caught), and he arrives in a tube station with candy and a note with instructions and an explanation of why he’s visiting.

“Our only request is we receive a picture from the unit visited so we can add the visit to our Christmas Tree,” says Bentley. “He returns shortly after he acquires a new skill or just a quick smile, restocks his candy, and heads to the next unit. So far he has visited Core Lab, Central Supply, MICU, STICU, 5 West, Pharmacy, 8 West Stem Cell, and NNICU. His passport (generously given by MICU) tracks his travels and stamps for his skills.”

One night, he listened to a trauma patient (a fellow elf), and when he got no response, he started CPR (pictured). On another night, he became chemo certified by the Stem Cell team. 

“Every unit has responded so well and really made this fun,” says Bentey. “I think it shows us how to take a minute, breathe, smile, and know that we are not alone. We are all in this together. Even when it’s hard, we have each other’s back. One of the reasons I committed to SIMU is for the same morale, teamwork, and family atmosphere our entire team promotes, and I’m proud to work with each member of the team.”

Thank you to Lauren, the SIMU team, and SIMU Steve for bringing joy to team members this holiday season! Steve will continue to visit units around the hospital at least three nights per week through Christmas Eve. Where will SIMU Steve pop up next?

Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

UVA Health Town Hall Is This Week!

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream | You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders in this special year-end celebration of our work together. NBC29’s Kasey Hott, local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, will join us to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights.

As always, please submit any questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event. Due to this town hall’s special format, questions will be answered directly or on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:19 p.m. Dec. 12)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 12)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Operations

New Visitor Guidance

Effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, the following new guidance is in effect:

• Inpatients who are COVID-positive or persons under investigation (PUI) can list two designated visitors identified for length of admission and permitted at the bedside between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Designated visitors must be documented in the Visitor FYI Flag. A change in designated visitors is only permitted by exception.
• Patients who are COVID-positive or PUI in non-inpatient sites can also have two designated visitors.
• All visitors to COVID-positive or PUI patients are required to follow isolation precautions (wearing N95, eye protection, gown, and gloves) and practice frequent hand hygiene.  
• The inpatient family lounges are now designated clinical space. Visitor passes are required for all who are 12 years or older. Individuals under 12 years old are permitted in the lounge without a pass but must have an adult with them at all times.
• Details can be found on the Visitor Restrictions Policy: Team Member Guidance document.

Monthly Epic Update: Changes Go Live Tuesday, Dec. 13

This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334.

HIT Now Reviewing and Approving Technology Proposals Annually

Deadline: Friday, Jan. 13, 2023 | As announced, Health Information and Technology (HIT) is no longer accepting and reviewing technology proposals on a rolling basis and has switched to an annual intake cycle. This change aligns with annual budgeting, organizational priorities, and strategic goals. Team members should analyze technology needs and potential acquisitions for the coming fiscal year and submit proposal(s) no later than Jan. 13, 2023, for consideration for the fiscal year 2024 portfolio. Proposals that were not previously selected for support can be resubmitted. To learn more about HIT Governance, including the guiding principles for project selection, please visit the HIT Governance website, or contact Kevin Greenwood, Director, Health IT Initiatives & Portfolio, at KTG3H@uvahealth.org. Read more on Connect.

Construction Alerts

• Emmet Street Overnight Closures | Wednesday, Dec. 14, to Tuesday, Jan. 17 | Monday-Friday | 8 p.m.-6 a.m. | A new pedestrian bridge will be installed over Emmet Street. This work will take place overnight on weekdays and will require a full closure of Emmet Street between Thomson Road and Stadium Road.
• Alderman Road | Monday, Dec. 19, to Friday, Jan. 13 | Monday-Friday | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Construction to increase water supply will take place on Alderman Road during the weekdays. This work will reduce traffic to one lane. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic.

Human Resources

Information Sessions: Medical Center Hiring Process

Monday, Dec. 19 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Zoom, passcode: 384817 | The Human Resources recruitment team invites Medical Center hiring managers to join this information session which will provide an overview of the new hiring process as well as available resources.

Update for 2023: UVA Health Orientation

Orientation Schedule | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A |Human Resources will continue to offer UVA Health in-person orientation in 2023. However, due to space constraints, these sessions will continue to be only for Medical Center new hires and international nurse new hires. Masks required.

Community

Give to the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign

Through Monday, Dec. 19 | The annual Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) is an opportunity for UVA team members to support nonprofits doing important work in the Charlottesville area and across the state. In the past 24 years, UVA employees have raised $18 million, surpassing not only every Virginia college and university but all state agencies. Contribute today. Learn more on Connect.

Happenings

Book and Gift Sale

Tuesday, Dec. 13, to Friday, Dec. 16 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | Link outside of Primary Care Center | This sale is sponsored by and benefits the UVA Hospital Auxiliary.

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 14 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Refugee Mental Health and Adaptation

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual | The third in a four-part series for clinical providers and relevant community members to gain awareness of the unique challenges and resources for providing mental healthcare for refugee patients. Register.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall | Ground Floor | Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers can get a new or updated headshot taken for the provider directory on the dates listed below. No appointment is needed. The shoot should take 10 minutes or less. Please bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Friday, Dec. 16 | noon-3 p.m.
• Wednesday, Dec. 21 | 7-10 a.m.  
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 20 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 25 | 8-11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Jan. 31 | noon-3 p.m.

Providers: Please make sure your online profile is accurate, up to date, and complete — including a provider profile video. Details and scheduling.

Deadline Extended: 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award

New deadline: Friday, Dec. 16 | 4 p.m. | This award is presented to a student, faculty, or staff member of the health system who embodies Dr. Martin Luther King's values and teachings in cultural competence, healthcare disparities, or fostering an environment of inclusiveness, in accordance with the institution's mission and values. To nominate, please email a completed packet including a nomination form and letter of support in a Word document or PDF to Margaret Natter Bernhardt, dtm3fq@uvahealth.org. Questions? Call 434.297.7013. Read more on Connect.

Appreciation

Lights of Love Brightens the Season

On Thursday, Dec. 8, the University of Virginia Hospital Auxiliary hosted its annual Lights of Love tree lighting event. The event helps the UVA Hospital Auxiliary’s efforts to raise money for programs that directly benefit patients and families at UVA Health, including flowers for patients, pet therapy, and music therapy. This year’s event included a visit from Santa and caroling with music provided by The Virginia Consort. Thank you to all who came out to this special event, and to those who support the Hospital Auxiliary now and throughout the year. Donations to the auxiliary can be made online. See photos from the event on Connect.

PREVIOUS UPDATES

Friday, Dec. 9, 2022

FDA Authorizes COVID Bivalent Boosters for Children as Young as 6 Months Old

This week, the FDA authorized bivalent boosters for very young children who are 6 months to 5 years old. Planning is underway at UVA Health to offer boosters to this population, and details will be shared as soon as possible.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:19 p.m. Dec. 9)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 9)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Operations

Update: New Visitor Guidance

Effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, the following new guidance is in effect:

• Inpatients who are COVID-positive or persons under investigation (PUI) can list two designated visitors identified for length of admission and permitted at the bedside between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Designated visitors must be documented in the Visitor FYI Flag. A change in designated visitors is only permitted by exception. 
• Patients who are COVID-positive or PUI in non-inpatient sites can also have two designated visitors. 
• All visitors to COVID-positive or PUI patients are required to follow isolation precautions (wearing N95, eye protection, gown, and gloves) and practice frequent hand hygiene.  
• The inpatient family lounges are now designated clinical space. Visitor passes are required for all who are 12 years or older. Individuals under 12 years old are permitted in the lounge without a pass but must have an adult with them at all times. 
• Details can be found on the Visitor Restrictions Policy: Team Member Guidance document.

Sign Up for the Blue Ridge Poison Center’s Newsletter for a Chance to Win a Prize

Deadline: Monday, Jan. 9, 2023 | UVA’s Blue Ridge Poison Center team offers fast, free, and expert help through a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week hotline, and they are passionate about reducing the risk of poisoning among team members and their families. The Poison Center offers two newsletters to keep you informed on poisoning trends, prevention tips, news, and more: Sign up for the ToxTalks newsletter (for clinicians) or The Antidote newsletter (for general audiences). Those who sign up with a UVA email address by Jan. 9 will be entered to win a prize. Five team members will be randomly selected to receive a PoisonHelp mug with treats. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Poison Center. 

Monthly Epic Update: Changes Go Live Tuesday, Dec. 13

This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334. 

Leadership

Rescheduled | Strategic Plan Virtual Coffee Talk With Jason Lineen, Chief Strategy Officer

The coffee talk with Jason Lineen, Chief Strategy Officer, originally scheduled for Monday, Dec. 12, has been canceled and is in the process of being rescheduled. Please watch this space for a new date. Email Peggy Pasternak at PSP3P@uvahealth.org with questions.

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall — Special Edition!

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream | As we welcome the holiday season and the new year, we are looking forward to reflecting on all of the extraordinary work across UVA Health in 2022, as well as updating our teams on the top initiatives and the latest developments for our organization. NBC29’s Kasey Hott, local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, will join us to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights. You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders in this special year-end celebration of our work together. 

As always, please submit any questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event. Due to this town hall’s special format, questions will be answered directly or on Connect.

Human Resources

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder and elected Basic Health with HSA for 2023, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you have already signed the electronic consent form since Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity — Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Thursday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration. (Note date correction.)

Happenings

SNMA Toy Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 23 | In partnership with UVA Health’s Office of Diversity & Community Engagement, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is sponsoring a toy drive for the children of the Westhaven community and children and adults affiliated with WellAWARE and Abundant Life Ministries. There are two ways to donate:

• Gift cards | Buy a $20 gift card from Old Navy, Target, Amazon, DSW, BP, Walmart, Kohl’s, Food Lion, Giant, Harris Teeter, or Exxon.
• Cash | Venmo any amount to @UVASNMA, and the SNMA will use the donation to buy gift cards. Don’t have Venmo? Donate cash or write a check. Contact Eoin Bradley (suq9fb@virginia.edu), Joselyne Tonleu (tfw9hn@virginia.edu), or Jackie Martin (jgm9u@uvahealth.org).

However you decide to donate, please sign up here. Donations due Friday, Dec. 23. Drop-off locations are in the student lounge in the Claude Moore Medical Education Building and in the Health Sciences Library (after Dec. 17). Download the flier from Connect. 

Refugee Mental Health and Adaptation

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual | The third in a four-part series for clinical providers and relevant community members to gain awareness of the unique challenges and resources for providing mental healthcare for refugee patients. Register.

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 14 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Deadline Extended: 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award

New deadline: Friday, Dec. 16 | 4 p.m. | This award is presented to a student, faculty, or staff member of the health system who embodies Dr. Martin Luther King's values and teachings in cultural competence, healthcare disparities, or fostering an environment of inclusiveness, in accordance with the institution's mission and values. To nominate, please email a completed packet including a nomination form and letter of support in a Word document or PDF to Margaret Natter Bernhardt, dtm3fq@uvahealth.org. Questions? Call 434.297.7013. Read more on Connect.

Appreciation

Shoutout: Thank You, 2022-23 Team Member Flu Vaccine Campaign Champions

Employee Health reports that 99.2% of UVA Health team members have met flu vaccination compliance requirements. Many groups contributed to the success of this year’s flu vaccine campaign, including the following:

•  Valerie Goodman, Employee Health Vaccine Coordinator
• Employee Health and WorkMed teams
• Danielle Griggs and Jordan DeAngelis, Pharmacy
• Rena Morse, Data Analyst
• Derrick Stone and the VaxTrax team
• Unit-based to-go kit vaccinators
• Volunteer vaccinators
• School of Nursing students
• HR Business Partners
• Exemption review teams
• Dr. Josh Eby and Dr. Costi Sifri
• Ellen McKenna and the Internal Communications team
• Each and every one of you!

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall — Special Edition!

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream | As we welcome the holiday season and the new year, we are looking forward to reflecting on all of the extraordinary work across UVA Health in 2022, as well as updating our teams on the top initiatives and the latest developments for our organization. NBC29’s Kasey Hott (pictured), local Charlottesville celebrity news anchor, will join us to honor and reflect on many of this year’s incredible team member highlights. You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders in this special year-end celebration of our work together.

As always, please submit any questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event. Due to this town hall’s special format, questions will be answered directly or on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:48 p.m. Dec. 7)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 7)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Leadership

Strategic Plan Virtual Coffee Talk With Jason Lineen, Chief Strategy Officer

Monday, Dec. 12 | noon-1 p.m. | Grab your coffee and learn more about UVA Health’s first enterprisewide strategic plan, One Future Together | Hope and Health for All,  by joining a virtual coffee talk session with Jason Lineen, Chief Strategy Officer. Jason will share plan details and discuss how we will work together to implement the plan to achieve our mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond. Don’t miss this great opportunity to join in the conversation about UVA Health’s bright future. All UVA Health team members are invited to attend. Space is limited. Please email Peggy Pasternak at PSP3P@uvahealth.org to RSVP.

Medical Center CEO Blog: New Technology and Brilliant Team Members

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, celebrates UVA Health as a home for innovation, looking at two programs (and their teams) that help us use new technology to better serve patients from around the world. Read more.

Operations

Update: New Visitor Guidance

Effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, the following new guidance is in effect:

• Inpatients who are COVID-positive or persons under investigation (PUI) can list two designated visitors identified for length of admission and permitted at the bedside between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Designated visitors must be documented in the Visitor FYI Flag. A change in designated visitors is only permitted by exception.
• Patients who are COVID-positive or PUI in non-inpatient sites can also have two designated visitors.
• All visitors to COVID-positive or PUI patients are required to follow isolation precautions (wearing N95, eye protection, gown, and gloves) and practice frequent hand hygiene.  
• The inpatient family lounges are now designated clinical space. Visitor passes are required for all who are 12 years or older. Individuals under 12 years old are permitted in the lounge without a pass but must have an adult with them at all times.
• Details can be found on the Visitor Restrictions Policy: Team Member Guidance document.

Medical Center Revises Policy Covering Use of PTO During Modified Operations

Feedback from team members has led to an important revision being made to Policy 510, which addresses Modified Medical Center Operations. The change became effective on Dec. 1 and allows designated non-exempt team members to use accrued Paid Time Off if they do not report to work during modified operations. Although the policy still requires team members to be charged with an unscheduled absence occurrence, the revision is expected to alleviate the financial strain that some designated non-exempt team members experience when modified operations are in effect and they cannot come into work. This revision brings Policy 510 into greater alignment with our ASPIRE value of Equity and is one of many actions being taken to reduce stress and invest in the safety and well-being of our teams.

Construction Alerts

• Lee Street Garage | Through Thursday, Dec. 29 | An exit lane and select areas near garage railings will be closed for patient parking. Signage is in place to prevent parking in the impacted spaces. If the Lee Street garage reaches capacity, patients will be directed to park in the 11th Street garage. Traffic congestion may result. There is no expected impact for team members who park in the 11th Street garage.
• Emmet Street Overnight Closures | Wednesday, Dec. 14, to Tuesday, Jan. 17 | Monday-Friday | 8 p.m.-6 a.m. | A new pedestrian bridge will be installed over Emmet Street. This work will take place overnight on weekdays and will require a full closure of Emmet Street between Thomson Road and Stadium Road.

Human Resources

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect

• Sign the Electronic Consent | For UVA to transfer your funds to Fidelity, you will need to complete this electronic consent form no later than Jan. 13, 2023. (This is a different form from the HSA Terms & Conditions form you may have signed in Workday during Open Enrollment.) If you have already signed the Electronic Consent Form since Nov. 29, you do not need to complete it again.

Webinar: Ask Fidelity – Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account

Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.  

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
• Monday, Jan. 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration.

2022 Education Benefit Deadlines

Please submit your education benefit request by the following dates to ensure payment in 2022:

• Academic Division: Friday, Dec. 9
• Medical Center: Tuesday, Dec. 20

Requests submitted after these dates may not count toward your 2022 limits. Visit the Education Benefits webpage for additional info on education benefits.

Community

Give to the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign

Through Monday, Dec. 19 | The annual Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) is an opportunity for UVA team members to support nonprofits doing important work in the Charlottesville area and across the state. In the past 24 years, UVA employees have raised $18 million, surpassing not only every Virginia college and university but all state agencies. Contribute today. Learn more on Connect.

Happenings

Hospital Lobby Gift Shop Sale and Temporary Closure

Closed Thursday, Dec. 8, through Tuesday, Jan. 3 | The Gift Shop will be temporarily closed for maintenance work. Before the closure, many items are 30% off (excludes greeting cards, movie tickets, toiletries, books, nonprescription medication, snacks, and flowers). Stop by and pick up holiday gifts at a discounted price!

FEAP Webinar: How to Manage Sadness, Self-Criticism, and That Desire to Just Curl Up in a Ball

Thursday, Dec. 8 | noon-1 p.m. | Register.

Lights of Love Tree Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 8 | 5 p.m. | University Hospital lobby | Join the UVA Hospital Auxiliary for the annual Lights of Love Tree Lighting and Caroling ceremony with music provided by The Virginia Consort. To help the Hospital Auxiliary continue their service of giving, consider making a tax deductible donation to support programs that directly benefit patients and their families, such as flowers for patients, pet therapy, music therapy, and more.

School of Medicine General Faculty Meeting

Thursday, Dec. 8 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A, or virtual |Voting members of the School of Medicine faculty have received invitations to attend the General Faculty Meeting. To attend virtually, use the link in your calendar invitation.

2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award

Due Friday, Dec. 9 | 4 p.m. | This award is presented to a student, faculty, or staff member of the health system who embodies Dr. Martin Luther King's values and teachings in cultural competence, healthcare disparities, or fostering an environment of inclusiveness, in accordance with the institution's mission and values. To nominate, please email a completed packet including a nomination form and letter of support in a Word document or PDF to Margaret Natter Bernhardt, dtm3fq@uvahealth.org. Questions? Call 434.297.7013. Read more on Connect.

Donate a Toy to Season’s Treatings

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 9 | UVA Children’s and the Human Resources Rewards & Recognition team are joining forces once again for this year’s Season’s Treatings Toy Drive. Support UVA Children’s by purchasing items from its Amazon digital wish list by Dec. 9. Purchased items will be mailed to the UVA Child Life Department. Questions? Contact Child Life Department (1215 Lee St., 7th Floor 7809, Charlottesville, VA, 22908) at 434.409.7107. Thank you for helping make the season brighter for our patients and families at UVA Children’s! See photos from last year’s Season’s Treatings event on Connect.

Refugee Mental Health and Adaptation

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual | The third in a four-part series for clinical providers and relevant community members to gain awareness of the unique challenges and resources for providing mental healthcare for refugee patients. Register.

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 14 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings, and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Appreciation

Photos From the End of Year Celebrations

UVA Health is hosting a series of End of Year Celebrations this week. Open to all UVA Health team members, these events spotlighted our ASPIRE value Equity, which promotes justice, diversity, inclusion, and unity as part of our culture. Team members stopped by to celebrate, engaged in fun activities, and enjoyed a delicious menu inspired by tastes from the Mediterranean. Check out the great photos from the events at UVA Fontaine Research Park and UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Stay tuned to Connect for more photos from today’s event at University Hospital. Thank you to all of our team members for their outstanding work this year!

Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

Holiday Events This Week

End-of-Year Celebrations Continue

The decor and food theme is Mediterranean, and all team members are invited to come by during the times below to participate in the fun. UVA Health is taking the opportunity at our end-of-year celebration to showcase the E (for equity) in our ASPIRE values. Together, we are fostering an environment of belonging that promotes justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and unity throughout UVA Health and within the communities we serve. 

• Tuesday, Dec. 6 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road
• Wednesday, Dec. 7 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria
• Off-site UVA Health offices | Details will be shared by location.

Lights of Love Tree Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 8 | 5 p.m. | University Hospital lobby | Join the UVA Hospital Auxiliary for the annual Lights of Love Tree Lighting and Caroling ceremony with music provided by The Virginia Consort. To help the Hospital Auxiliary continue their service of giving, consider making a tax deductible donation to support programs that directly benefit patients and their families, such as flowers for patients, pet therapy, music therapy, and more.

Donate a Toy to Season’s Treatings

Deadline: Friday. Dec. 9 | UVA Children’s and the Human Resources Rewards & Recognition team are joining forces once again for this year’s Season’s Treatings Toy Drive. Support UVA Children’s by purchasing items from its Amazon digital wish list by Dec. 9. Purchased items will be mailed to the UVA Child Life Department. Questions? Contact Child Life Department (1215 Lee St., 7th Floor 7809, Charlottesville, VA, 22908) at 434.409.7107. Thank you for helping make the season brighter for our patients and families at UVA Children’s! See photos from last year’s Season’s Treatings event on Connect.

Need a Pick Me Up?

Stop by the Tree of Encouragement (pictured) on the second floor of the University Hospital lobby. The tree features ornaments with words of encouragement, UVA orange and blue decor, and a tribute to the UVA students who were killed in the recent shooting tragedy. Thank you Gloria Smith, Facilities Planner, and Randal Johnson, Greeter, Patient and Guest Services, for the lovely idea!

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:34 p.m. Dec. 2)

Workforce Impact
The Workforce Impact Dashboard is experiencing technical difficulties. New data will be provided when it becomes available.

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Leadership

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream | As we welcome the holiday season and the new year, we are looking forward to reflecting on all of the extraordinary work across UVA Health in 2022 as well as updating our teams on top initiatives and the latest developments for our organization. You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event. This Town Hall will have a special format, so questions will be answered directly or on Connect.

Happenings

Hospital Lobby Gift Shop Sale and Temporary Closure

Closed Thursday, Dec. 8, through Tuesday, Jan. 3 | The Gift Shop will be temporarily closed for maintenance work. From now to Wednesday, many items will be 30% off (excludes greeting cards, movie tickets, toiletries, books, nonprescription medication, snacks, and flowers). Stop by and pick up holiday gifts at a discounted price!

Prostate Cancer Support Group | Sharing Our Strength

Starts Tuesday, Dec. 6 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | University Baptist Church | 1223 West Main St. | The Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center is offering an in-person and virtual prostate cancer support group. The group, led by UVA Health oncology social workers, will create a safe environment in which patients support one another. A follow-up session will occur on Jan. 3, 2023. To participate virtually, please provide an email address when registering. A video link will be sent before the first session. To register, contact Gwenevere Milton at 434.297.4870.

FEAP Webinar: How to Manage Sadness, Self-Criticism, and That Desire to Just Curl Up in a Ball

Thursday, Dec. 8 | noon-1 p.m. | Register. 

School of Medicine General Faculty Meeting

Thursday, Dec. 8 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A, or virtual | Voting members of the School of Medicine faculty have received invitations to attend the General Faculty Meeting. To attend virtually, use the link in your calendar invitation.

Physician Perspectives to Be Featured in Clinical Faculty Roundtable on One Team United on Access 

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | 5:30–6:45 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | This roundtable for clinical faculty will address key questions about the One Team United on Access project and will feature perspectives from physicians currently implementing changes here at UVA and from guest speaker Dr. Stephen Nakada, chair of urology at the University of Wisconsin. In-person and virtual attendance options are available. See the project intranet page for details and to RSVP.

Christmas Day Meals for Team Members

Sunday, Dec. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria | A free meal will be provided to team members who are working on Christmas Day and show their ID badges.

Appreciation

Nurses Reinvigorated With Hope After Nursing Summit

Nursing recently gathered for the 2022 Nursing Summit, which was entitled “Practicing With Purpose.” This year’s theme was designed around helping UVA Health nurses remember why they went into nursing and empower their growth as a nurse. The full-day event featured keynote speakers Marla Weston, PhD, RN, FAAN, Chief Executive Officer, American Nurses Association (2009 – 2018), and

Katie Boston-Leary (pictured), PhD, MBA, MHA, RN, NEA-BC, CCTP, Director of Nursing Programs, Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation, and Co-Lead Project Firstline Grant, American Nurses Association, who revitalized those in attendance and reminded them that their challenges are valid. Here are a couple takeaways from participants regarding Dr. Weston:

• “This speech was impactful, strong, and inspiring. I will practice gratitude each and every day and encourage others to do the same. I think we get caught up in the negative of everyday events on units at times and need to take the time to stop and be gracious for other things in our day.”
• “I was very grateful for the visual she used showing the emotional highs and lows after a catastrophic event. It affirmed that what's happening within the nursing profession is not abnormal after the pandemic and gave me hope for the future.”

And Dr. Boston-Leary:

• “Outstanding. Absolutely outstanding. Loved her presentation, her skill in presenting it, and her ability to bring us all alongside her points with her comments: ‘When you ask someone how they are doing, your feet should not be moving;’ ‘broken crayons still color;’ and ‘the fish shouldn't be restricted to the boundaries of their bowl.’ So much of what she said is going to stick with me for a very long time.”
• “She reminded us of our true value as nurses. We need to advocate for each other and ourselves.”

Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

It’s Time to Come Together and Celebrate!

You are invited to enjoy a very special celebration that honors our entire team — you and your colleagues who work hard every day to provide exceptional care to our patients and community. Beginning this Sunday, UVA Health is hosting a series of End of Year Celebrations at the Medical Center and other locations in the Charlottesville area. Open to all UVA Health team members, these events will spotlight our ASPIRE value, Equity, which promotes justice, diversity, inclusion, and unity as part of our culture. During the times listed below, please stop by to celebrate, engage in fun activities, and enjoy a delicious menu inspired by tastes from the Mediterranean.

End of Year Celebrations

• Sunday, Dec. 4 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria
• Monday, Dec. 5 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | UVA Fontaine Research Park
• Tuesday, Dec. 6 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road
• Wednesday, Dec. 7 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria
• Off-site UVA Health offices | Details will be shared by location.

If you have any questions, please contact George Minor, member of the Human Resources Reward & Recognition team.

Christmas Day Meals
Sunday, Dec. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria | A free meal will be provided to team members who are working on Christmas Day and show their ID badges.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:34 p.m. Dec. 2)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Dec. 2)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Patient Care

Provider Update: Bebtelovimab No Longer Authorized to Treat COVID

On Wednesday, Nov. 30, the FDA announced the deauthorization of the anti-SARS COV2 monoclonal antibody bebtelovimab for the treatment of COVID because it is not expected to neutralize the new omicron variants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1. These variants now account for about 59.2% of cases in our region and over half of new cases nationally. The following treatment options remain available for COVID:

• Nirmatrelvir plus ritonavir (Paxlovid) is the preferred treatment option at UVA Health, and there is no significant evidence that emerging strains are resistant to this antiviral. Drug interactions may limit use in some patients, but many interactions can be safely managed. Contact a pharmacist for help, or try one of these resources: Liverpool COVID-19 Interactions Checker or PAXLOVID Patient Eligibility Screening Checklist and Drug Interaction Tool. Severe renal or liver disease may limit use in other patients. However, a small number of adult patients with severe or end-stage renal disease may be able to access Paxlovid through a clinical trial. To learn more, contact CovidTrialsUVA@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu or 855.882.5334.
  • Worried about rebound after Paxlovid treatment? According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), based on current information, persons treated with Paxlovid who experience COVID-19 rebound have had mild illness and do not seem to develop severe disease. Additional retreatment with Paxlovid or other anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapies in cases where COVID-19 rebound is suspected is not needed. Read more from the CDC advisory here: COVID-19 Rebound After Paxlovid Treatment.
• Remdesivir (Veklury) is another antiviral option at UVA. However, treatment must be administered intravenously over three consecutive days. Patients can be referred for remdesivir treatment in the UVA Special Pathogens Clinic. (Use Epic order “Ambulatory Referral for COVID Infusion.”)
• Molnupiravir (Lagevrio) may be a consideration for non-pregnant adult patients, but due to lower effectiveness, should only be considered when other therapies are not an option.

Learn more about COVID treatment options:

• Statement on Omicron Subvariants
• NIH COVID treatment guidelines

Operations

Hospital Lobby Gift Shop Sale and Temporary Closure

Closed Thursday, Dec. 8, through Tuesday, Jan. 3 | The Gift Shop will be temporarily closed for maintenance work. Starting Monday, Dec. 5, many items will be 30% off (excludes greeting cards, movie tickets, toiletries, books, nonprescription medication, snacks, and flowers). Stop by and pick up holiday gifts at a discounted price!

Leadership

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Wednesday, Dec. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream | As we welcome the holiday season and the new year, we are looking forward to reflecting on all of the extraordinary work across UVA Health in 2022 as well as updating our teams on top initiatives and the latest developments for our organization. You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event. This Town Hall will have a special format, so questions will be answered directly or on Connect.

Human Resources

Action Required for UVA Basic Health Plan Enrollees: HSAs and FSAs Changing for 2023

Fidelity will become UVA’s administrator for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) beginning Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a 2022 HSA with Chard Snyder, you have a one-time opportunity to transfer those funds to Fidelity as part of a bulk transfer, which you will need to complete prior to Jan. 13, 2023. Those who choose to stay with Chard Snyder will be required to pay a fee of $4 per month. Read more in the email you received from HR, on the HR website, or on Connect.

• Webinar: Ask Fidelity – Discover the Potential of Your Health Savings Account |Prepare for the transition to Fidelity as the new administrator for UVA’s HSAs and FSAs.
  • Tuesday, Jan. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Details and registration.
  • Monday, Jan. 23 | 6-7 p.m. | Details and registration.

Happenings

Holiday Wreath Auction: Only a Few Days Left to Bid

Bidding closes Monday, Dec. 5 | The UVA Cancer Center Wreath Auction is back, and this year, wreath auctions will occur at the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center and UVA Cancer Center Augusta. UVA Health provided wreath bases, and volunteers donated their creativity. Check out the auction site, and bid today. All proceeds go toward helping cancer patients who face barriers to accessing treatment. Read more on Connect about the student volunteers making this fundraiser happen.

Prostate Cancer Support Group | Sharing Our Strength

Starts Tuesday, Dec. 6 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | University Baptist Church | 1223 West Main St. | The Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center is offering an in-person and virtual prostate cancer support group. The group, led by UVA Health oncology social workers, will create a safe environment in which patients support one another. A follow-up session will occur on Jan. 3, 2023. To participate virtually, please provide an email address when registering. A video link will be sent before the first session. To register, contact Gwenevere Milton at 434.297.4870.

School of Medicine General Faculty Meeting

Thursday, Dec. 8 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A, or virtual |
Voting members of the School of Medicine faculty have received invitations to attend the General Faculty Meeting. To attend virtually, use the link in your calendar invitation.

2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award

Due Friday, Dec. 9 | 4 p.m. | This award is presented to a student, faculty, or staff member of the health system who embodies Dr. Martin Luther King's values and teachings in cultural competence, healthcare disparities, or fostering an environment of inclusiveness, in accordance with the institution's mission and values. To nominate, please email a completed packet including a nomination form and letter of support in a Word document or PDF to Margaret Natter Bernhardt, dtm3fq@uvahealth.org. Questions? Call 434.297.7013. Read more on Connect.

Season’s Treatings Toy Drive

Deadline: Friday. Dec. 9 | UVA Children’s and the Human Resources Rewards & Recognition team are joining forces once again for this year’s Season’s Treatings Toy Drive. Support UVA Children’s by purchasing items from its Amazon digital wish list by Dec. 9. Purchased items will be mailed to the UVA Child Life Department. Questions? Contact Child Life Department (1215 Lee St., 7th Floor 7809, Charlottesville, VA, 22908) at 434.409.7107. Thank you for helping make the season brighter for our patients and families at UVA Children’s!

Stuff a Holiday Stocking for Adult Inpatients

Drop-off deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 14 | Volunteers are busy sewing stockings and Volunteer Services needs your help to fill them. Donations should be small enough to fit in a stocking. Wish-list items: spray conditioner, socks, stocking hats, gloves, ornaments, tea light candles, cards, small games, mini candy canes, holiday stickers, small stuffed animals, art supplies, flavored Chapsticks, pencils, and books (coloring, word search, crosswords, Sudoku, journals). Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services in the hospital lobby. Questions? Call LaDelle Gay in Volunteer Services at 434.924.5251.

Submit Nominations Now | Uteam Member of the Month

Deadline: 15th of every month | This program recognizes team members each month for their outstanding service to UVA Health and commitment to our ASPIRE values. Any team member, patient, or visitor may nominate an eligible team member, including individuals from UVA Medical Center, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and UVA Physicians Group. Nominate a colleague.

Appreciation

Congratulations to the Joint Replacement Team on a New Certification!

The Joint Commission recently informed UVA Health that it received Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification, a premier designation for total joint replacement surgery. Obtaining this certification validates the program’s outstanding patient outcomes through the use of standardized clinical care guided by evidence-based guidelines. Advanced certification requires the program to meet prescriptive metrics set by The Joint Commission. These metrics are standardized performance measures (like ambulation on the day of surgery or patient discharge to home) that the program must monitor monthly and submit to The Joint Commission. Advanced certification also encompasses the entire continuum of care, from the initial clinic visit to the surgery and throughout the post-operative follow-up. Our performance measures monitor each piece of the patient’s surgical journey to ensure the patient is receiving outstanding care every step of the way. The entire team plays an integral role in obtaining and maintaining our Advanced Total Hip and Knee Certification.
 
This new certification demonstrates our commitment to outstanding patient outcomes and experiences. Patients can expect exceptional care by a team of dedicated professionals throughout the care continuum.
 
Amber Dillon, RN, Joint Replacement Clinical Program Coordinator says, “The entire team is bursting with pride on achieving advanced certification. It required many months of preparation and dedication, and to see that effort be rewarded is an amazing feeling.” Thank you and congratulations to the entire Joint Replacement team on raising UVA Health’s level of excellence and for providing superb patient care. Well done!

Archive of previous UVA Health Updates

• March 30-July 31, 2020
• Aug.-Sept. 2020
• Oct.-Dec 2020
• Jan.-March 2021
• April 2021
• May 2021
• June 2021
• July 2021
• Aug. 2021
• Sept. 2021
• Oct. 2021
• Nov. 2021
• Dec. 2021
• Jan. 2022
• Feb. 2022
• March 2022
• April 2022
• May 2022
• June 2022
• July 2022
• Aug. 2022
• Sept. 2022
• Oct. 2022
• Nov. 2022