Discounted Tickets | UVA Men’s Basketball: UVA vs. Louisville 

Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets. 

Ambulatory 

Shingrix Available in Select Ambulatory Clinics Starting Jan. 21; Requires Training for RNs, LPNs, and MAs  

The shingles vaccine Shingrix will be available in designated clinics for administering to non-Medicare patients starting Jan. 21. (Medicare patients must continue to receive Shingrix from a pharmacy for it to be covered by insurance). Specialties and subspecialties identified as areas where Shingrix may be stocked and administered are Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Digestive Health, Rheumatology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, and Employee Primary Care. Clinics in these specialties should take the following actions in preparation to receive and administer Shingrix:  

• If your clinic has a Pyxis, no action is needed. Your Pyxis will be loaded by Jan. 21.  
• If your clinic does not have a Pyxis, clinic managers should submit a requisition for Shingrix to inpatient pharmacy by Jan. 10.  
• Clinical team members (RNs, LPNs, MAs) in clinics that will administer Shingrix are required to complete the Shingles Prevention and Vaccination learning module in Workday prior to administration. Team members in identified clinics above will be auto-enrolled Jan. 1; all others will need to be enrolled by their manager or self-enrolled prior to administering.  

Questions? Email Monica Morgan (Shingrix vaccine and distribution) or Sarah Shreckhise (clinical education and training). 

Operations 

Impacts of New Year’s Holiday  

Wednesday, Jan. 1  

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed.  
• Team Member Gym will be closed.  
• Parking and Transportation Modifications:  
  • University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate Wednesday, Jan. 1.    
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.    
  • UtoCar will operate normally.    
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Wednesday, Jan. 1.    
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Thursday, Jan. 2.   
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Wednesday:  
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe   
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500    
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road   
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe   
  • West Complex Cafe   
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Wednesday, Jan. 1. It will resume Friday, Jan. 3. 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Jan. 4-12, reopens Monday, Jan. 13 | Facilities Management will be replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the third level (B) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the third level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Winter Weather Safety 

To keep everyone as safe as possible, please begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify our 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. Learn more about winter weather preparedness on Connect.       

• Report an icy patch or area that needs clearing at a UVA Health facility by calling 434.924.2267.  
• Walk Like a Penguin: Keep yourself safe when traversing slippery or icy surfaces. Shane Anderson, Director of Emergency Management, advises keeping your feet under you and taking small steps (like a penguin!) to avoid falling.  
• The UVA Health Status Board is an online hub that communicates team member reporting status and local-level operations status detail for UVA Health medical centers, clinics, and other locations across the health system. 

Upcoming Migration: Department Intranet Sites 

Migration go-live: February 2025 | To enhance our digital infrastructure and exceed security and usability benchmarks, the HIT Application Development team will be migrating all published department intranet sites from Plone to the Mura platform. This migration will deliver a more modern, user-friendly interface, support iterative theme updates to maintain user-interface standards, and offer streamlined content management for your intranet needs. What you need to know:  

• All published and active Plone intranets listed in the A-Z directory will be migrated. View list. 
• Some intranet sites do not currently have an identified owner or editor. These unpublished intranets — and those without an identified owner/editor — will not be migrated. 
• If you believe you have an intranet site and have not received an email about this migration, contact the Application Development team. 

Leadership 

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Dec. 17 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for leaders and panel discussion topics, and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see updates on our community, clinical care, research, and education missions. Watch. 

Human Resources 

New Health Savings Participants: Spend Your FSA Balance 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 31 | If you're new to the UVA Health Plan Health Savings option in 2025, you can open your HSA in 2025 only after ensuring your Full Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (Full FSA) has a $0.00 balance by Dec. 31. If not, you'll need to wait until Apr. 1, 2025, to access your HSA funds. Explore online purchases from the FSA Online Store for easy spending before the deadline. For more assistance, contact Fidelity at 833.299.5089 or visit Fidelity Net Benefits. 

Happenings 

Support Local Nonprofits and Give Where You Live 

Deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 31 | By donating directly through Give Where You Live, 100% of your contribution will go to the organization of your choice. Find a list of local nonprofits, including those that historically have received significant support from the UVA workforce, on the local giving web page. Read more on Connect. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on:              

• Friday, Jan. 3 | 9 a.m.-noon  
• Wednesday, Jan. 8 | 8-11 a.m.  
• Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1-4 p.m.  
• Monday, Jan. 27 | 9 a.m.-noon 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way!      

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt, side of building  
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe  
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent  
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe  
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace  
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more.    

• Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | RSVP    
• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP    
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP    
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

Call for Proposals: Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry 

Deadline: Jan. 31 | The Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry, one of the only nursing history centers in the world, seeks applicants for two fellowships: the 30th Anniversary Research Fellowship, a $3,000 grant for scholarly work in the history of healthcare using Bjoring and UVA collections; and the Barbara Brodie Nursing History Fellowship, a $3,000 grant for a post-doctoral fellow and nurse engaged in the study of nursing history. Materials and questions may be directed to Dominique Tobbell, PhD, Director, Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry. Read more. 

Appreciation 

Video Series | Research in Motion  

Have you been keeping up with the weekly video series Research in Motion? In it, researchers are asked three questions: What do you do? What do you love about your research? How will it impact human health? View the latest:  

• Hao Jiang, PhD (pictured) | "My laboratory studies how the expression of our genetic information is normally regulated and how cancer and certain developmental disorders are caused by disregulation of gene expression through novel mechanisms, including formation of liquid-like microdroplets of key proteins." 
• Kevin Janes, PhD | "My laboratory studies cancer and infectious disease from a complex systems perspective. We combine quantitative experiments in the laboratory with computer models that formalize how we think the disease works." 
• Steven Munger, PhD | "Our group studies the senses of smell and taste. We’re interested not only in the nitty-gritty of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that allow us to detect odors in taste, but also how disease disrupts those senses and impacts our daily lives." 
• Chris Holstege, MD | "There’s a plethora of substances coming into society — various drugs and things that are of risk to our populations. I work very closely to do epidemiologic research as to what agents are coming in, and to assure that if there’s a danger to society, working with others, such as the government, to make sure those are banned or taken off of the market." 

Thank you to these researchers — and all our colleagues who advance medical knowledge — for conducting research that shapes the medicine we deliver tomorrow, and how we deliver it. New Research in Motion videos are posted every Friday on Connect. 

Previous Updates

Friday, Dec. 27

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

Ambulatory 

Shingrix Available in Select Ambulatory Clinics Starting Jan. 21; Requires Training for RNs, LPNs, and MAs 

The shingles vaccine Shingrix will be available in designated clinics for administering to non-Medicare patients starting Jan. 21. (Medicare patients must continue to receive Shingrix from a pharmacy for it to be covered by insurance). Specialties and subspecialties identified as areas where Shingrix may be stocked and administered are Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Digestive Health, Rheumatology, Oncology, Infectious Disease, and Employee Primary Care. Clinics in these specialties should take the following actions in preparation to receive and administer Shingrix: 

• If your clinic has a Pyxis, no action is needed. Your Pyxis will be loaded by Jan. 21. 
• If your clinic does not have a Pyxis, clinic managers should submit a requisition for Shingrix to inpatient pharmacy by Jan. 10. 
• Clinical team members (RNs, LPNs, MAs) in clinics that will administer Shingrix are required to complete the Shingles Prevention and Vaccination learning module in Workday prior to administration. Team members in identified clinics above will be auto-enrolled Jan. 1; all others will need to be enrolled by their manager or self-enrolled prior to administering. 

Questions? Email Monica Morgan (Shingrix vaccine and distribution) or Sarah Shreckhise (clinical education and training). 

Operations 

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Through Sunday, Dec. 29 | As part of the ongoing construction at Fontaine Research Park, a pair of very large thermal energy storage tanks were delivered Dec. 23. Preparation, delivery, and installation of these tanks will cause disruptions and modifications to traffic, parking, and pedestrian travel through Dec. 29. For more information on construction alerts and resources on Fontaine, please visit this web page. 

Impacts of New Year’s Holiday 

Wednesday, Jan. 1 

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed. 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications: 
  • University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate Wednesday, Jan. 1.   
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.   
  • UtoCar will operate normally.   
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Wednesday, Jan. 1.   
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Thursday, Jan. 2.  
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Wednesday: 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe  
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500   
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road  
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe  
  • West Complex Cafe  
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Wednesday, Jan. 1. It will resume Friday, Jan. 3. 

Leadership 

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Dec. 17 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for leaders and panel discussion topics, and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see updates on our community, clinical care, research, and education missions. Watch. 

Happenings 

Discounted Tickets | UVA Men’s Basketball: UVA vs. Louisville 

Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets. 

Drawing: Sign Up for Blue Ridge Poison Center Newsletter 

Deadline: Jan. 10 | Stay Informed with Blue Ridge Poison Center’s newsletters. The Antidote provides prevention tips and education resources for the general public. ToxTalks provides up-to-date information on substance misuse trends, management guidelines, and more for healthcare professionals. Sign up and you can win a prize! Blue Ridge Poison Center randomly will select five team members with UVA email addresses from the mailing list on Jan. 10 to receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Sign up. 

Mindfulness Classes  

• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Jan. 13-March 3 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Register | This class is designed to help people alter their behavior and improve their relationship to food, eating, and their bodies. With mindfulness as the foundation, the class will provide participants with the tools, understanding, and practices to alter unhealthy behavior, thoughts, and habits that are at the root of mindless overeating, binge eating, and body dissatisfaction. Check the Mindfulness Center’s website for cost details.   
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Feb. 5-March 12 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Ideal for those who want to learn about mindfulness and how to apply it to reduce stress both at work and at home with a shorter initial time commitment. It can be taken alone, as an introductory offering before taking the full 20-hour course, or as a follow-up to the longer course for those who want a refresher. 

Appreciation 

‘I Couldn't Have Asked for a Better Team and Hospital’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:   

• “We appreciate the total care — from check in to recovery and anything in between — that our daughter and ourselves received during her surgery. I couldn't have asked for a better team and hospital to provide the care for our child. Dr. Biller was amazing in all areas. RN Katie was superior with help and love to our daughter. The anesthesiologist was nothing less than wonderful. All the members we came in contact were great.” 
• “The doctors were amazing and kept me and my children informed throughout my stay. I felt so cared for by the residents (Dr. Laura Lavette and Dr. Matt Colas) as well as the attending (Dr. Moors). They were unbelievably attentive to my every need and exuded such confidence that we would get through this horrible illness together! I felt like I was their only patient as they spent so much time with me. How could anyone ask for a better experience? I am so grateful!” 
• “I’m glad I have access to the professional team at UVA Health. Dr. Hryvniak and his staff are to be commended, and I hope that you share this survey feedback with the entire team. These folks are champions.” 
• “Dr. Adam Shimer is absolutely outstanding — period! Great experience in every respect. One of the most phenomenal medical professionals I have ever had. He explained the surgical procedure he had performed in great detail and laid out a simple plan for recovery. He answered every question my wife and I asked. His genuine care, positive attitude, and wonderful sense of humor is so impressive and so appreciated. He and his ortho spine team deserve tremendous credit and, together, they represent the best in medical care for UVA Health.” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Monday, Dec. 23

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members working on Christmas Day. Stop by University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Through Sunday, Dec. 29 | As part of the ongoing construction at Fontaine Research Park, a pair of very large thermal energy storage tanks will be delivered Monday, Dec. 23. Preparation, delivery, and installation of these tanks will cause disruptions and modifications to traffic, parking, and pedestrian travel through Dec. 29. For more information on construction alerts and resources on Fontaine, please visit this web page. 

Impacts of Christmas Holiday  

Wednesday, Dec. 25  

• Clinics | All UVA Health clinics will be closed. 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications | 
  • University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate Wednesday, Dec. 25. 
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. 
  • UtoCar will operate normally. 
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Wednesday, Dec. 25. 
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Thursday, Dec. 26. 
• Cafe and retail locations | 
  • West Complex Cafe: Closed Dec. 24-27 
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road: Closed Dec. 24-26 
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500: Open 7-11 a.m. Dec. 24; closed Dec. 25 
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe: Closed Dec. 25 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe: Closed Dec. 25 
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Wednesday, Dec. 25. It will resume Friday, Dec. 27. 

Winter Weather Safety 

To keep everyone as safe as possible, please begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify our 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. Learn more about winter weather preparedness on Connect.      

• Report an icy patch or area that needs clearing at a UVA Health facility by calling 434.924.2267. 
• Walk Like a Penguin: Keep yourself safe when traversing slippery or icy surfaces. Shane Anderson, Director of Emergency Management, advises keeping your feet under you and taking small steps (like a penguin!) to avoid falling. 
• The UVA Health Status Board is an online hub that communicates team member reporting status and local-level operations status detail for UVA Health medical centers, clinics, and other locations across the health system. 

UVA Health Team Member Gym Now Open 

5 a.m.-9 p.m. | Entrance outside Battle Building Main Lobby | The gym is free for all UVA Health team members, and the space is equipped with strength training equipment and cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, and cycles. There’s also an area for stretching, and gym bathrooms are equipped with showers. Badge access entry is located outside the Battle Building Main Lobby. In the initial phase — as we work to hire team members to manage the facility — the gym will be open Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.- 9 p.m. We are working on a staffing plan to open seven days a week. Read more and see photos on Connect. 

Upcoming Migration: Department Intranet Sites 

Migration go-live: February 2025 | To enhance our digital infrastructure and exceed security and usability benchmarks, the HIT Application Development team will be migrating all published department intranet sites from Plone to the Mura platform This migration will deliver a more modern, user-friendly interface, support iterative theme updates to maintain user-interface standards, and offer streamlined content management for your intranet needs. What you need to know: 

• All published and active Plone intranets listed in the A-Z directory will be migrated. View list. 
• Some intranet sites do not currently have an identified owner or editor. These unpublished intranets — and those without an identified owner/editor — will not be migrated. 
• If you believe you have an intranet site and have not received an email about this migration, contact the Application Development team. 

Leadership 

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Dec. 17 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for leaders and panel discussion topics, and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see updates on our community, clinical care, research, and education missions. Watch. 

Human Resources 

New Health Savings Participants: Spend Your FSA Balance 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 31 | If you're new to the UVA Health Plan Health Savings option in 2025, you can open your HSA in 2025 only after ensuring your Full Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (Full FSA) has a $0.00 balance by Dec. 31. If not, you'll need to wait until Apr. 1, 2025, to access your HSA funds. Explore online purchases from the FSA Online Store for easy spending before the deadline. For more assistance, contact Fidelity at 833.299.5089 or visit Fidelity Net Benefits. 

Happenings 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Friday, Dec. 27 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | Red Cross is experiencing critically low levels of blood supply, particularly those with type O blood. One in seven patients admitted into the hospital will need a blood transfusion. Donations, especially during the holiday season, tend to decrease while the need for donations increases. Sign up to donate by emailing Sharon Jones at giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donate through Jan. 3 and receive a limited edition, exclusive Red Cross long-sleeve T-shirt. Details. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on:             

• Friday, Jan. 3 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Wednesday, Jan. 8 | 8-11 a.m. 
• Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1-4 p.m. 
• Monday, Jan. 27 | 9 a.m.-noon 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way!     

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria 
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt, side of building 
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent 
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe 
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria 
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace 
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet 
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more.   

• Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | RSVP   
• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP   
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP   
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

Elevate Your Nursing With a UVA Graduate Degree 

UVA School of Nursing is Virginia’s top-ranked program and offers a multitude of programs and pathways for nurses interested in advancing their education and professional trajectory. Choose from the newly reformatted hybrid BSN to DNP program, which offers students a choice of one of eight specialty areas, to the school’s five specialty master’s programs and six post-master’s specialty programs. With programs designed for working nurses, many of which require minimal time on Grounds, our graduates earn more, rise faster, and reap the rewards a graduate nursing degree brings. With flexible schedules, affordable programs, and more than $4 million in financial aid distributed every year, there’s never been a better time to consider becoming an advanced practice nurse and supercharging your career. Join to learn more;  

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP  
• Wednesday, March 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP  
• Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | RSVP 

Appreciation

Happy Holidays | Hope, Joy, and Gratitude 

From senior leadership: “As 2024 comes to a close, we are profoundly grateful for each of you. This year brought triumphs and challenges in many forms — and opportunities for growth and celebration. Through it all, your unwavering commitment to transforming health and inspiring hope has made incredibly meaningful differences this year in the lives of the patients we serve across Virginia and beyond.” 

Read the full message and watch a video filled with hope, joy, and gratitude on KnowledgeLink. 

Friday, Dec. 20

UVA Health Team Member Gym Now Open 

5 a.m.-9 p.m. | Entrance outside Battle Building Main Lobby | The gym is free for all UVA Health team members, and the space is equipped with strength training equipment and cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, and cycles. There’s also an area for stretching, and gym bathrooms are equipped with showers. Badge access entry is located outside the Battle Building Main Lobby. In the initial phase — as we work to hire team members to manage the facility — the gym will be open Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.- 9 p.m. We are working on a staffing plan to open seven days a week. Read more and see photos on Connect. 

Operations 

Magnet Redesignation Update 

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)’s Magnet Recognition Program has announced four appraisers will conduct a site visit from Monday, Feb. 24, through Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at UVA Health University Medical Center — the final step in the Magnet redesignation process that happens every four years. 

There are two main components of the Magnet designation process: documentation and site visit. University Medical Center’s Magnet core team submitted the required documentation on Oct. 1, 2024. ANCC reviewed the 2024 Magnet Document — and we’re excited to report — notified University Medical Center on Dec. 12, 2024, that University Medical Center will proceed “straight to site visit!” Read more on Connect. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Monday, Dec. 23 | Canceled | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | In alignment with UVA HR, there is no Central Clinical Orientation the week of Dec. 23. Please enjoy this time with your families. Visit the Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Dec. 21-29 | As part of the ongoing construction at Fontaine Research Park, a pair of very large thermal energy storage tanks will be delivered Monday, Dec. 23. Preparation, delivery, and installation of these tanks will cause disruptions and modifications to traffic, parking, and pedestrian travel Dec. 21-29. For more information on construction alerts and resources on Fontaine, please visit this web page. 

Construction Impact: Lane Road 

Monday, Dec. 23 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Workers will remove the scaffolding on the southwest corner of the South Tower near Lane Road and Crispell Drive. The northbound lane will be blocked with flaggers on-site to direct traffic. Additionally, a short section of the sidewalk will be closed. Questions? Contact Hunter Durrer. 

Impacts of Christmas Holiday 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 

• Clinics | All UVA Health clinics will be closed. 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications | 
  • University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate Wednesday, Dec. 25.   
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.   
  • UtoCar will operate normally.   
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Wednesday, Dec. 25.   
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Thursday, Dec. 26. 
• Cafe and retail locations |   
  • West Complex Cafe: Closed Dec. 24-27 
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road: Closed Dec. 24-26 
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500: Open 7-11 a.m. Dec. 24; closed Dec. 25 
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe: Closed Dec. 25 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe: Closed Dec. 25  
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Wednesday, Dec. 25. It will resume Friday, Dec. 27. 

Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Leadership 

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Dec. 17 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for leaders and panel discussion topics, and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see updates on our community, clinical care, research, and education missions. Watch.

Dr. Paola Gehrig Appointed Interim Associate Chief Medical Officer for Perioperative Services 

Paola A. Gehrig, MD, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, will serve as the interim Associate Chief Medical Officer for Perioperative Services at UVA Health University Medical Center. This role was previously held by Mark Shaffrey, MD, who unexpectedly passed away earlier this month.   

Dr. Gehrig brings extensive experience and a proven track record of leadership to this role. Since joining UVA Health in 2022, she has led the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology within the UVA School of Medicine with distinction, building on a long and accomplished career at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. At UNC, she served as Professor and Chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, as well as Executive Medical Director of the Women’s Hospital. Read more on Connect. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• The grand opening of our pediatric neurodevelopmental and behavioral health clinic is featured locally, regionally, and in Becker’s Hospital Review and Yahoo, with comments from University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton, Dr. Craig Kent, and Dr. Madhusmita Misra. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Laura Shaffer participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing our new pediatric neurodevelopmental and behavioral health clinic.  
• Dr. Steve Borowitz is featured in The Washington Post discussing a medical mystery he helped solve for one of his young patients. 
• University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton sits down with Chief Healthcare Executive to discuss her career, getting through the pandemic and efforts to recruit and retain team members. 
• Min Lee is recognized on Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of COOs to know. 
• University Medical Center’s No. 1 ranking in Virginia by Newsweek is covered locally, across Virginia/Washington, D.C., and in media outlets nationally. 

Research

• Dr. Kim Penberthy’s article for The Conversation on supporting grieving loved ones at the holidays is picked up by more than 80 outlets nationally, including Scientific American and PBS. 
• Dr. Michael Nelson is quoted in Fortune, FiercePharma, BioPharma Dive, and Yahoo discussing a potential RSV vaccine for kids. 
• Dr. Preethi Venkat is quoted in MedPage Today discussing research into how alpha-gal syndrome may make patients sensitive to IV Stelara. 
• Dr. Neeral Shah is featured in the Washington Times discussing Dry January. 
• Dr. Laahn Foster talks with MedPage Today about the benefits of a medication combo for treating multiple myeloma. 

Community

• Kelly Brown — a UVA Health Children’s Advisory Board member — talks with NBC29 and CBS19 about the annual Season’s Treatings event. 

Education 

• Dr. Eric Davis is featured locally and across Virginia explaining why he doesn’t recommend mouth taping to help with sleep apnea and snoring. 

Human Resources 

New Health Savings Participants: Spend Your FSA Balance 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 31 | If you're new to the UVA Health Plan Health Savings option in 2025, you can open your HSA in 2025 only after ensuring your Full Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (Full FSA) has a $0.00 balance by Dec. 31. If not, you'll need to wait until Apr. 1, 2025, to access your HSA funds. Explore online purchases from the FSA Online Store for easy spending before the deadline. For more assistance, contact Fidelity at 833.299.5089 or visit Fidelity Net Benefits. 

Happenings 

Stories: The Art of Trish Crowe 

Through Wednesday, Jan. 15 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Stories: The Art of Trish Crowe.” Pictured: Watercolor, “Where to, Alice?” Stop by and check it out!  

Discounted Tickets: UVA Men’s Basketball 

To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets.     

• Sunday, Dec. 22 | 2 p.m. | UVA vs. American University 
• Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | UVA vs. Louisville 

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members working on Christmas Day. Stop by University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Friday, Dec. 27 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | Red Cross is experiencing critically low levels of blood supply, particularly those with type O blood. One in seven patients admitted into the hospital will need a blood transfusion. Donations, especially during the holiday season, tend to decrease while the need for donations increases. Sign up to donate by emailing Sharon Jones at giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donate through Jan. 3 and receive a limited edition, exclusive Red Cross long-sleeve T-shirt. Details. 

Support Local Nonprofits and Give Where You Live 

Deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 31 | By donating directly through Give Where You Live, 100% of your contribution will go to the organization of your choice. Find a list of local nonprofits, including those that historically have received significant support from the UVA workforce, on the local giving web page. Read more on Connect. 

Drawing: Sign Up for Blue Ridge Poison Center Newsletter 

Deadline: Jan. 10 | Stay Informed with Blue Ridge Poison Center’s newsletters. The Antidote provides prevention tips and education resources for the general public. ToxTalks provides up-to-date information on substance misuse trends, management guidelines, and more for healthcare professionals. Sign up and you can win a prize! Blue Ridge Poison Center randomly will select five team members with UVA email addresses from the mailing list on Jan. 10 to receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Sign up. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Jan. 13-March 3 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Register | This class is designed to help people alter their behavior and improve their relationship to food, eating, and their bodies. With mindfulness as the foundation, the class will provide participants with the tools, understanding, and practices to alter unhealthy behavior, thoughts, and habits that are at the root of mindless overeating, binge eating, and body dissatisfaction. Check the Mindfulness Center’s website for cost details.  
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Feb. 5-March 12 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Ideal for those who want to learn about mindfulness and how to apply it to reduce stress both at work and at home with a shorter initial time commitment. It can be taken alone, as an introductory offering before taking the full 20-hour course, or as a follow-up to the longer course for those who want a refresher. 

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

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Appreciation 

‘So Kind and Caring’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:  

• “I want to thank Danna Wright who called to set up my procedure visit. She was very polite, professional, and made the instructions so easy to understand and follow. The staff at Monroe Lane were awesome and eased my nerves quickly around the procedure. I felt like I was in and out in no time. Thanks to everyone — especially Dr. Doran, who was super sweet and kind. I knew I was in good hands once she greeted me. I've told all my co-workers to ask for her for their visit.”  
• “Greg, Lisa, Matt, and Meredith were wonderful. They really helped me understand how I could improve my treatment times and my toleration of the treatment. They were kind to me when I was anxious about it, and they were caring. I would not have gotten through the treatments without their caring attitude. They should be commended for the great patient-centered care they offer.” 
• “Mark was absolutely wonderful. He patiently answered my many, many questions. He clearly explained how to read my forthcoming results as well. He was so kind, and I'm grateful to have had him on that day, especially during this difficult time of my life.” 
• “Valerie Kelly is simply amazing — I had an exceptionally difficult start. Had Valerie not shown me how to manage this, I don't think I would have gotten through it so well. Valerie is so kind and caring. I feel lucky to have met and worked with her. Thank you!” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Dec. 17 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for leaders and panel discussion topics, and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see updates on our community, clinical care, research, and education missions. Watch. 

Magnet Redesignation Update 

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)’s Magnet Recognition Program has announced four appraisers will conduct a site visit from Monday, Feb. 24, through Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at UVA Health University Medical Center — the final step in the Magnet redesignation process that happens every four years. 

There are two main components of the Magnet designation process: documentation and site visit. University Medical Center’s Magnet core team submitted the required documentation on Oct. 1, 2024. ANCC reviewed the 2024 Magnet Document — and we’re excited to report — notified University Medical Center on Dec. 12, 2024, that University Medical Center will proceed “straight to site visit!”  

Operations 

UVA Health Team Member Gym Now Open 

5 a.m.-9 p.m. | Entrance outside Battle Building Main Lobby | The gym is free for all UVA Health team members, and the space is equipped with strength training equipment and cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, and cycles. There’s also an area for stretching, and gym bathrooms are equipped with showers. Badge access entry is located outside the Battle Building Main Lobby. In the initial phase — as we work to hire team members to manage the facility — the gym will be open Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.- 9 p.m. We are working on a staffing plan to open seven days a week. 

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Dec. 21-29 | As part of the ongoing construction at Fontaine Research Park, a pair of very large thermal energy storage tanks will be delivered on Monday, Dec. 23. Preparation, delivery, and installation of these tanks will cause disruptions and modifications to traffic, parking, and pedestrian travel Dec. 21-29. For more information on construction alerts and resources on Fontaine, please visit this web page. 

Construction Impact: Lane Road 

Monday, Dec. 23 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Workers will remove the scaffolding on the southwest corner of the South Tower near Lane Road and Crispell Drive. The northbound lane will be blocked with flaggers on site to direct traffic. Additionally, a short section of the sidewalk will be closed. Questions? Contact Hunter Durrer. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Monday, Dec. 23 | Canceled | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | In alignment with UVA HR, there will be no Central Clinical Orientation the week of Dec. 23. Please enjoy this time with your families. Visit the Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

CT Scanning: Extending Hours for Our Patients 

To improve access and to better meet the needs of our patients, UVA Health has extended the hours computed tomography (CT) scanning is available by appointment, including evenings and weekends. 

• Weekdays: Extended hours of operations until 9 p.m. 
• Weekends: Now open 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 

Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Upcoming Migration: Department Intranet Sites 

Migration go-live: February 2025 | To enhance our digital infrastructure and exceed security and usability benchmarks, the HIT Application Development team will be migrating all published department intranet sites from Plone to the Mura platform This migration will deliver a more modern, user-friendly interface, support iterative theme updates to maintain user-interface standards, and offer streamlined content management for your intranet needs. What you need to know: 

• All published and active Plone intranets listed in the A-Z directory will be migrated. View list.  
• Some intranet sites do not currently have an identified owner or editor. These unpublished intranets — and those without an identified owner/editor — will not be migrated. 
• If you believe you have an intranet site and have not received an email about this migration, contact the Application Development team. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Volunteer Services Hangs Stockings With Care 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares how our Volunteer Services team is working hard to bring holiday cheer to our patients. Read more.

Happenings 

Coping With Grief During the Holidays 

Thursday, Dec. 19 | 5-6 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room B | RSVP by Dec. 18 | This seminar explores the reasons that holidays can be a particularly difficult time when grieving a loss. Jordan Phillips, LPC, Hospice of the Piedmont Grief and Healing Manager, will offer strategies to help bereft individuals and families, including children, cope with grief during the holidays as well as coping strategies to avoid. Hosted by UVA Core Bereavement Committee. Learn more. 

Discounted Tickets: UVA Men’s Basketball 

To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets.    

• Sunday, Dec. 22 | 2 p.m. | UVA vs. American University   
• Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | UVA vs. Louisville 

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members working on Christmas Day. Stop by the University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Friday, Dec. 27 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | Red Cross is experiencing critically low levels of blood supply, particularly those with type O blood. One in seven patients admitted into the hospital will need a blood transfusion. Donations, especially during the holiday season, tend to decrease while the need for donations increases. Sign up to donate by emailing Sharon Jones at giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donate through Jan. 3 and receive a limited edition, exclusive Red Cross long-sleeve T-shirt. Details. 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

Call for Proposals: Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry 

Deadline: Jan. 31 | The Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry, one of the only nursing history centers in the world, seeks applicants for two fellowships: the 30th Anniversary Research Fellowship, a $3,000 grant for scholarly work in the history of healthcare using Bjoring and UVA collections; and the Barbara Brodie Nursing History Fellowship, a $3,000 grant for a post-doctoral fellow and nurse engaged in the study of nursing history. Materials and questions may be directed to Dominique Tobbell, PhD, Director, Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry. Read more. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way!    

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt, side of building 
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe  
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent  
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe  
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace  
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Appreciation 

UVA Health Children’s, Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital Opening Pediatric Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Health Care Clinic 

UVA Health Children’s and Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital have partnered to open a new clinic to expand access to behavioral health and neurodevelopmental care for children across Central Virginia. 

Located directly off U.S. 29 at 2325 Seminole Lane in northern Albemarle County — with free, convenient parking located directly in front of the building — the UVA Health Children's Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Health Clinic will see its first patients Dec. 20. The clinic is staffed by UVA Health Children’s care providers and supported by a substantial investment from Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital along with other generous gifts from private donors.  

The clinic will serve as the cornerstone for expanded behavioral health and neurodevelopmental care for children at UVA Health Children’s, combining the expertise of developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, child psychiatrists, and integrative medicine specialists. 

Thank you to all who played a part in making this new clinic a reality! Read more on Connect. 

Monday, Dec. 16

Tomorrow: UVA Health Town Hall 

Tuesday, Dec. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and Livestream | Please join the latest Town Hall with K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders to learn more about the latest developments across our organization as we continue our momentum fulfilling the goals of our 10-year strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. 

Leadership 

Newsweek Ranks UVA Health University Medical Center Virginia’s No. 1 Hospital 

Newsweek’s Best-in-State Hospitals 2025 list ranks UVA Health University Medical Center as Virginia’s No. 1 hospital. 

“This is a well-deserved honor earned through the hard work and commitment of every member of our team,” says K. Craig Kent, MD, UVA Health Chief Executive Officer and UVA Executive Vice President for Health Affairs. “I commend our caregivers and thank them for what they do every day to serve our patients.” 

Read more on Connect. 

Ambulatory 

November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available  

The November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report is now available. Highlights include newly added Epic tools, the launch of the One Team | United on Access Faculty Advisory Council, and the return of the RN Navigator role. Senior Ambulatory leaders wish to thank all Ambulatory team members for embracing and stewarding the many initiatives and changes of this past year that have enhanced the way we work and deliver care together. 

Patient Care 

Interpreters Available for Telehealth Appointments 

Providers may request an interpreter to join telehealth sessions in real time for American Sign Language, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, and Spanish. Interpreting services will be provided by Globo, which estimates an interpreter will join your call within 60 seconds of your request. Look for the “Request Interpreter” button when you join your Epic video client telehealth session and follow the prompts. See the Epic Learning Library tip sheet for more information. The HIT Service Desk is available to provide support and respond to any issues with this new Epic telehealth feature. 

Operations 

Virtual Town Hall Dec. 17 on Impact of Upcoming Fontaine Construction

The traffic and parking impact of construction involving thermal energy storage tanks on Fontaine Park for the Central Energy Plant project will be discussed at a virtual town hall on Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. Please use this link and passcode P@ssw0rd24 to join the live event and ask questions via a chat. The virtual town hall will provide an overview of activities scheduled on Monday, Dec. 23, Thursday, Dec. 26, and Friday, Dec. 27 that will impact traffic and parking at Fontaine. For more information on construction alerts and resources on Fontaine, please visit this web page. 

Ticket Scheduling for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT has launched ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types. Access associates, providers, and clinical team members who schedule may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes.   

Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Winter Weather Safety 

To keep everyone as safe as possible, please begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify our 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. Learn more about winter weather preparedness on Connect.     

• Report an icy patch or area that needs clearing at a UVA Health facility by calling 434.924.2267.  
• Walk Like a Penguin: Keep yourself safe when traversing slippery or icy surfaces. Shane Anderson, Director of Emergency Management, advises keeping your feet under you and taking small steps (like a penguin!) to avoid falling.      
• The UVA Health Status Board is an online hub that communicates team member reporting status and local-level operations status detail for UVA Health medical centers, clinics, and other locations across the health system. 

Human Resources 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures  

The team at the recently opened UVA Health LASIK Northridge is pleased to share that all UVA Health and UVA academic team members and all UVA students are eligible for a 10% discount on LASIK procedures. LASIK is not covered by most insurance plans (including the UVA Health Plan). The out-of-pocket cost is $2,500 per eye, so UVA employees and students can save $250 per eye. To receive the discount, simply inform the scheduling team that you are a UVA employee or student when you schedule your initial evaluation with the clinic. To make an appointment, call 434.982.2010. 

Happenings 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

iDRIV Scholars Program Now Accepting Applications 

Applications due Wednesday, Dec. 18 | Inspiring Diverse Researchers in Virginia (iDRIV) Scholars program is founded on a dual commitment: supporting the success of exceptional investigators and building a diverse research community to enhance our mission of improving human health. Diverse research teams foster greater creativity and productivity, yet this diversity is underrepresented in the current scientific workforce. The iDRIV program aims to accelerate the research careers of early career and aspiring faculty at UVA through education, coaching, mentoring, and sponsorship tailored to early career biomedical science researchers. Learn more. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7-10 a.m. | McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less. 

Discounted Tickets: UVA Men’s Basketball 

To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets.   

• Sunday, Dec. 22 | 2 p.m. | UVA vs. American University  
• Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | UVA vs. Louisville 

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members working on Christmas Day. Stop by the University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages.   

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more.  

• Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | RSVP  
• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP  
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP  
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

Appreciation 

‘Unwavering Commitment’ 

We’re thrilled to report that UVA Health Continuing Education, provided by UVA School of Medicine and UVA School of Nursing, has been awarded full reaccreditation status by the Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education. ”This prestigious recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to providing high quality continuing education for healthcare professionals,” says Melodye Farrar, MAEd, CHCP, CMP-HC, Director, UVA Health Continuing Education.  

The reaccreditation process — which began with a comprehensive, 700+ page self-study — meticulously documented the program's excellence in meeting all accreditation criteria. The program achieved full compliance in each of the 12 Joint Accreditation Criteria.  

The reaccreditation process was led by Farrar, who co-authored the self-study with Kathleen Bunch Meneses. Karen Rheuban, MD, and Kathryn Reid conducted a thorough review of the document, which was submitted in June. Dr. Rheuban, Farrar, Meneses, and Drew Harris participated in a live survey in September. 

“This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our entire continuing education team,” says Dr. Rheuban, Senior Associate Dean, Continuing Medical Education. “We look forward to continuing our mission of providing exceptional continuing education that enhances the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals — ultimately improving patient care.” 

Friday, Dec. 13

UVA School of Nursing Seeks Preceptor-Mentors for Advanced Practice Nursing Students 

UVA School of Nursing is seeking nurses with a penchant to teach the next generation of advanced practice nursing students on their units. UVA graduate nursing students are experienced, fun, brilliant, and eager to learn from you and your colleagues. Curious about paying it forward in 2025? Learn more about being a preceptor and get started. 

Ambulatory 

November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available  

The November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report is now available. Highlights include newly added Epic tools, the launch of the One Team | United on Access Faculty Advisory Council, and the return of the RN Navigator role. Senior Ambulatory leaders wish to thank all Ambulatory team members for embracing and stewarding the many initiatives and changes of this past year that have enhanced the way we work and deliver care together. 

Operations 

IV Fluid Shortage Update 

From Dec. 12: Over the last several days, we have continued to closely monitor irrigation and TPN fluids, both of which have limited supplies that will last only two to three more weeks at our current utilization rates. Given this continued shortage — as well as limited availability of other IV fluids — we are hoping to secure international shipments over the next couple of weeks that will replenish our supplies into mid-January. Stay tuned for more information on this effort. 

Additionally, as part of the ongoing work to address shortages of parenteral nutrition (PN) components, we have developed guidance for patients that are admitted to UVA Health’s University Hospital (main campus) who are on PN from the UVA Continuum Home Infusion pharmacy. To review this guidance, please see the link below. Your efforts to follow the processes outlined in this document will help to conserve this important product. 

• Continuum Supplied Parenteral Nutrition Guidance 

Lastly, for all team members, please continue to stay vigilant in conserving all IV fluids for the foreseeable future. Although production is starting to ramp up at Baxter following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the shortage is still expected to last through the end of January, and potentially into February. That means your diligence remains extremely important in maintaining our supplies. 

Thank you for all of your efforts. As more information becomes available, we will keep you informed. To access the latest playbooks, visit the FAQs. Questions? Email IVshortage@uvahealth.org. 

Ticket Scheduling for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT has launched ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types. Access associates, providers, and clinical team members who schedule may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes.  

Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

Updating UVA Health-Employed Provider Profiles 

Need to make an update to your UVA Health profile? Previously, Edit Requests for provider and location profiles have been on one online form. Now it’s on two separate forms: one for employed providers and another one for hospitals/clinic locations. These new forms highlight the different field types, who manages them, and estimated turnaround time for completion. Here are the new links for Provider Profile Edit Request and Location Profile Edit Request. 

Leadership 

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall 

Tuesday, Dec. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and Livestream | Please join the latest Town Hall with K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders to learn more about the latest developments across our organization as we continue our momentum fulfilling the goals of our 10-year strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Craig Kent is named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 64 CEO influencers to know. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Chris Luminais participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing how we use the MR-linac machine to treat prostate cancer.  
• Chief Strategy Officer Jason Lineen joins the Becker’s Hospital Review podcast to discuss cybersecurity and AI innovations. 
• Dr. Nicholas Brenton is featured on TV stations nationally discussing low-carb diets. 
• Dr. Antonio Abbate is featured locally, in Washington, D.C., across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally talking about pericarditis. 
• Dr. Carrie Sopata is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally talking about self-serve HPV tests. 
• Dr. Michael Nelson is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing how winter affects people with asthma. 

Research 

• Dr. Madhusmita Misra co-authors a commentary for Medscape about the benefits of Vitamin E for bone health. 
• Dr. Patrick Jackson talks with Reuters about a new HIV medication. 
• Dr. David Acunzo writes an article for The Conversation on the health benefits of hypnosis that appears in more than 40 outlets, including the Houston Chronicle and the San Francisco Chronicle. 
• Dr. Patrick Dillon is featured in BioPharma Dive and Yahoo discussing a new potential medication to treat breast cancer. 
• Dr. Avery Michienzi is featured locally and across Virginia discussing the presence of a veterinary sedative in Virginia’s illegal drug supply. 

Community 

• Lights of Love events at University Medical Center and Culpeper Medical Center are covered across the region. 

Education 

• UVA School of Nursing Dean Marianne Baernholdt, clinical nurse leaders Sarah Thompson and May Gallanosa, and student Cindy Tran talk with WVTF (Virginia NPR affiliate) about new approaches to training and retaining nurses. 

Human Resources 

New Health Savings Participants: Spend Your FSA Balance 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 31 | If you're new to the UVA Health Plan Health Savings option in 2025, you can open your HSA in 2025 only after ensuring your Full Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (Full FSA) has a $0.00 balance by Dec. 31. If not, you'll need to wait until Apr. 1, 2025, to access your HSA funds. Explore online purchases from the FSA Online Store for easy spending before the deadline. For more assistance, contact Fidelity at 833.299.5089 or visit Fidelity Net Benefits. 

Happenings 

UVA Health Team Member Gym Open House and Ribbon Cutting 

Monday, Dec. 16 | 9-9:45 a.m. | Entrance outside Battle Building Main Lobby | Join UVA Health leadership for a ribbon cutting/open house kick-off event to celebrate the grand opening of the UVA Health Team Member Gym. While the official program ends at 9:45 a.m., the gym open house will continue until 5 p.m. Come by and tour the space, which will be equipped with strength training equipment and cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, and cycles. There also will be an area for stretching, and gym bathrooms are equipped with showers. 

Mental Health Tips for the Holidays 

Our Wisdom and Well-being Program colleagues remind us that, for some, this season is not always a happy one. Holidays can be stressful for a multitude of reasons, including past trauma, loneliness, financial strain, over-indulging, social anxieties, lack of sleep, stressful jobs, and family responsibilities. A few tips: breathe, eat healthfully and mindfully, cope ahead (be prepared for mess ups), contribute to others, laugh, prioritize and cut back, practice gratitude, create an escape plan, journal to clear your mind, and treat yourself. Learn more about strategies to stay mentally well this month. 

2024 Season’s Treatings Donation Drive 

Make your season merry and bright! Season's Treatings is UVA Health Children’s signature holiday event, allowing families to shop free of charge for hospitalized patients and their siblings. To best serve our diverse patient needs, five Amazon wish lists have been created from which supporters can select gifts. Questions? Contact Amy Cesak. See the wish lists:  

• High priority  
• Coping Resources  
• Sensory  
• Technology  
• Teen 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

Discounted Tickets: UVA Men’s Basketball 

To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets.  

• Sunday, Dec. 22 | 2 p.m. | UVA vs. American University 
• Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | UVA vs. Louisville 

Drawing: Sign Up for Blue Ridge Poison Center Newsletter 

Deadline: Jan. 10 | Stay Informed with Blue Ridge Poison Center’s newsletters. The Antidote provides prevention tips and education resources for the general public. ToxTalks provides up-to-date information on substance misuse trends, management guidelines, and more for healthcare professionals. Sign up and you can win a prize! Blue Ridge Poison Center will randomly select five team members with UVA email addresses from the mailing list on Jan. 10 to receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Sign up. 

Mindfulness Classes  

• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Jan. 13-March 3 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Register | This class is designed to help people alter their behavior and improve their relationship to food, eating, and their bodies. With mindfulness as the foundation, the class will provide participants with the tools, understanding, and practices to alter unhealthy behavior, thoughts, and habits that are at the root of mindless overeating, binge eating, and body dissatisfaction. Check the Mindfulness Center’s website for cost details. 
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Feb. 5-March 12 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Ideal for those who want to learn about mindfulness and how to apply it to reduce stress both at work and at home with a shorter initial time commitment. It can be taken alone, as an introductory offering before taking the full 20-hour course, or as a follow-up to the longer course for those who want a refresher. 

Appreciation 

‘A Rare Gem’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members: 

• “Cynthia Clark is fantastic. So much respect for her knowledge, I drove almost six hours rather than going to someone else. I have been with her since my initial screening for a cochlear implant. She explained everything in a caring and supportive manner.” 
• “Tina Turner recorded a famous song entitled, “Simply the Best!” That should be the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center's theme song for Dr. Gaughan and her staff!” 
• “I spent most of my time with Talia, the physical therapist. She was such a pleasure to work with. I was very impressed by her depth of knowledge in her field, and she was extremely thorough in providing any helpful information to me. She expressed a great level of care/concern for my health and experiences, spending at least an hour with me to discuss solutions to my health concerns, which was phenomenal and very informative. I deeply appreciate her time and feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend this valuable time with her!” 
• “I had an outstanding experience with Dr. Dana Redick. From the moment I walked into the office, I felt truly welcomed and cared for by the entire staff. Dr. Redick is incredibly knowledgeable, attentive, professional, and compassionate. She takes the time to listen to all my concerns, thoroughly explains my options, and ensures I feel completely comfortable with my care plan. Her dedication to providing top-notch healthcare is unmatched — I even travel 6.5 hours just to see her because she is truly the crème de la crème of her field. Thank you, Dr. Redick, for your unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment to your patients. You are a rare gem in healthcare!”   

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall  

Tuesday, Dec. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and Livestream | Please join the latest Town Hall with K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders to learn more about the latest developments across our organization as we continue our momentum fulfilling the goals of our 10-year strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. 

Ambulatory 

November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available 

The November Ambulatory Operations Progress Report is now available. Highlights include newly added Epic tools, the launch of the One Team | United on Access Faculty Advisory Council, and the return of the RN Navigator role. Senior Ambulatory leaders wish to thank all Ambulatory team members for embracing and stewarding the many initiatives and changes of this past year that have enhanced the way we work and deliver care together. 

Patient Care 

Interpreters Available for Telehealth Appointments 

Providers may request an interpreter to join telehealth sessions in real time for American Sign Language, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, and Spanish. Interpreting services will be provided by Globo, which estimates an interpreter will join your call within 60 seconds of your request. Look for the “Request Interpreter” button when you join your Epic video client telehealth session and follow the prompts. See the Epic Learning Library tip sheet for more information. The HIT Service Desk is available to provide support and respond to any issues with this new Epic telehealth feature. 

Operations 

Ticket Scheduling for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT has launched ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types. Access associates, providers, and clinical team members who schedule may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes. 

Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

UVA Health Team Member Gym Open House and Ribbon Cutting 

Monday, Dec. 16 | 9-9:45 a.m. | Entrance outside Battle Building Main Lobby | Join UVA Health leadership for a ribbon cutting/open house kick-off event to celebrate the grand opening of the UVA Health Team Member Gym. While the official program ends at 9:45 a.m., the gym open house will continue until 5 p.m. Come by and tour the space, which will be equipped with strength training equipment and cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, and cycles. There will also be an area for stretching, and gym bathrooms are equipped with showers. 

The gym officially opens Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 5 a.m., and is free for all UVA Health team members. In the initial phase — as we work to hire team members to manage the facility — the gym will be open Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.-9 p.m. We are working on a staffing plan to open seven days a week. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Spread Cheer With Candy Grams! 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares how you can take part in this small but sweet way to say “thank you” for inspiring Hope at Work. Read more. 

Happenings 

2024 Season’s Treatings Donation Drive 

Make your season merry and bright! Season's Treatings is UVA Health Children’s signature holiday event, allowing families to shop free of charge for hospitalized patients and their siblings. To best serve our diverse patient needs, five Amazon wish lists have been created from which supporters can select gifts. Questions? Contact Amy Cesak. See the wish lists: 

• High priority 
• Coping Resources 
• Sensory 
• Technology 
• Teen 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

Discounted Tickets: UVA Men’s Basketball 

To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special, discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Buy tickets. 

• Sunday, Dec. 22 | 2 p.m. | UVA vs. American University   
• Saturday, Jan. 4 | 4 p.m. | UVA vs. Louisville  

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members working on Christmas Day. Stop by the University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages.  

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way!   

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria 
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | TBD 
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent 
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe 
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria 
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace 
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet 
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Appreciation 

Congratulations to UVA’s Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award Winners! 

Leonard W. Sandridge was an avid champion of UVA staff and dedicated 44 years of service to the school. He joined the University in 1967 as internal audit staff and held a number of positions until he became Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in 1993. The Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award is the highest individual employee award at the University and is named in honor of him. 

Winners of this prestigious award not only contribute to the University in a positive way, but also enhance internal or public regard for the services provided by UVA and the Commonwealth at large. Winners' dedication to service impacts students, patients, various clients, management, fellow employees, and/or the community. 

The winners of the 2024 Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award (OCA) are: 

• Academic Division: Kathy Alderson, Joey Carls, Lisa Shuler, Sherri Sullivan 
• UVA Health: Scottie Frey, Tausha Grim, Gene "Taylor" Tereskerz, Sandra Burks, Fisher Rhoads, Nancy Rush 
• UVA College at Wise: MaryAnn Keith 

Visit Connect to read more and see photos of the event. Learn more about this award and other ways to recognize the exceptional work of your colleagues on the HR Rewards and Recognition web page. 

Monday, Dec. 9, 2024

2024 Season’s Treatings Donation Drive  

Make your season merry and bright! Season's Treatings is UVA Health Children’s signature holiday event, allowing families to shop free of charge for hospitalized patients and their siblings. To best serve our diverse patient needs, five Amazon wishlists have been created from which supporters can select gifts. Questions? Contact Amy Cesak.  

• High priority wishlist  
• Sensory wishlist  
• Teen wishlist  
• Coping wishlist  
• Technology wishlist 

Patient Care 

Coming Soon: Interpreters Available for Telehealth Appointments 

Effective Dec. 10, providers may request an interpreter to join telehealth sessions in real time for the following languages: American Sign Language, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, and Spanish. Interpreting services will be provided by Globo, which estimates an interpreter will join your call within 60 seconds of requesting. Look for the “Request Interpreter” button when you join your Epic video client telehealth session and follow the prompts. See the Epic Learning Library tip sheet for more information. The HIT Service Desk is available to provide support and respond to any issues with this new Epic telehealth feature. 

Operations 

Ticket Scheduling Coming for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT will launch ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types on Dec. 10. Access associates, clinical team members who schedule, and providers may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes. Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, Dec. 10 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Service Desk at 434.924.5334. 

Keep Us Safe by Minimizing Decorations in Your Area (and Know the Guidelines)  

State and federal regulatory agencies prohibit decorations in healthcare occupancies unless certain guidelines concerning decorations are observed to ensure the safety of us all. Should you have any fire safety questions concerning decorations please contact HSPP Compliance at 924.9389; for infection control, please contact 924.0260. Read the guidelines on Connect. 

Winter Weather Safety 

To keep everyone as safe as possible, please begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify our 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. Learn more about winter weather preparedness on Connect.    

• Report an icy patch or area that needs clearing at a UVA Health facility by calling 434.924.2267. 
• Walk Like a Penguin: Keep yourself safe when traversing slippery or icy surfaces. Shane Anderson, Director of Emergency Management, advises keeping your feet under you and taking small steps (like a penguin!) to avoid falling.     
• The UVA Health Status Board is an online hub that communicates team member reporting status and local-level operations status detail for UVA Health medical centers, clinics, and other locations across the health system. 

Leadership 

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall 

Tuesday, Dec. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and Livestream | Please join the Town Hall with K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders to learn more about the latest developments across our organization as we continue our momentum fulfilling the goals of our 10-year strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. 

Human Resources 

Education Benefit Request Deadline 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 10 | The last day for Academic and UVA Health faculty, staff, and team members to submit education benefit requests in Workday for Calendar Year 2024 is Dec. 10. To allow plenty of time for review and approval in time for payment in CY 2024, we encourage employees not to wait for the deadline to submit requests. All requests for classes and programs taken in the fall 2024 semester may be submitted in advance of program completion. There is no need to wait for end-of-semester grades. 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, Dec. 11 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. 

Happenings 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

iDRIV Scholars Program Now Accepting Applications 

Applications due Wednesday, Dec. 18 | Inspiring Diverse Researchers in Virginia (iDRIV) Scholars program is founded on a dual commitment: supporting the success of exceptional investigators and building a diverse research community to enhance our mission of improving human health. Diverse research teams foster greater creativity and productivity, yet this diversity is underrepresented in the current scientific workforce. The iDRIV program aims to accelerate the research careers of early career and aspiring faculty at UVA through education, coaching, mentoring, and sponsorship tailored to early career biomedical science researchers. Learn more. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot  

Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7-10 a.m. | McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less. 

Complimentary Holiday Meal 

Wednesday, Dec. 25 | University Hospital Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | Thank you to all team members who will be working on Christmas Day. To celebrate the holiday, stop by the University Hospital cafeteria to enjoy spiced ham, vegetarian lasagna, roasted potato medley, lemon pepper green beans, dinner rolls, mixed greens salad (with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion, topped with Italian vinaigrette), warm apple cobbler, and assorted fountain drink beverages. Bon appétit! 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Starts Tuesday, Jan. 7 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar. 

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more. 

• Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | RSVP 
• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

Elevate Your Nursing With a UVA Graduate Degree 

UVA School of Nursing is Virginia’s top-ranked program and offers a multitude of programs and pathways for nurses interested in advancing their education and professional trajectory. Choose from the newly reformatted hybrid BSN to DNP program, which offers students a choice of one of eight specialty areas, to the school’s five specialty master’s programs and six post-master’s specialty programs. With programs designed for working nurses, many of which require minimal time on Grounds, our graduates earn more, rise faster, and reap the rewards a graduate nursing degree brings. With flexible schedules, affordable programs, and more than $4M in financial aid distributed each and every year, there’s never been a better time to consider becoming an advanced practice nurse and super-charging your career. Join to learn more. 

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday, March 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | RSVP 

Appreciation 

‘The Very Best, Science-Based Care’ 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) 2024 Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care (mPINC) Survey results are in — and as one of 2,070 U.S. and territorial hospitals that responded to the survey, the results show UVA Health scored 92 out of 100 and “demonstrated commitment to quality improvement in maternity practices that support optimal infant nutrition.” 

The CDC provides the 2024 mPINC Hospital Report to highlight strengths and quality improvement opportunities identified through UVA Health’s survey responses and to illustrate how UVA Health practices compare with others of similar size, across the region, and nationwide. 

We’re excited to report: UVA Health scored well above the national and regional averages of 82 and the “similar in size” hospitals average of 84. UVA Health earned its highest scores in these categories: 93 in immediate postpartum care; 90 in feeding practices; 97 in feeding education — with 100 in rooming-in and 100 in institutional management! 

“All families deserve to be successful with their unique feeding plan. We strive to provide individualized, evidence-based practices to best support infant feeding,” says Katie W. Zecha, MSN, RN, IBCLC, CNL, UVA Health Breastfeeding Medicine Program. 

“We are so proud to provide the very best, science-based care to new families. We want every family to be comfortable with their feeding plan and to achieve their personal breastfeeding goals. This score reflects a tremendous amount of work on the part of the entire team to provide the best maternity care,” says Ann Kellams, MD, board-certified in pediatrics and breastfeeding and lactation medicine, international board-certified lactation consultant, and a professor at UVA School of Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics.  

Hospitals can use the mPINC Ten Steps Assessment Tool to identify which items from the mPINC survey align with each of the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding,” guide implementation of maternity practices and policies supportive of breastfeeding, and identify and prioritize quality improvement efforts. 

Congratulations to our team members and for all they do to support our mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond. 

Friday, Dec. 6, 2024

Lighting of the Lawn 

Friday, Dec. 6 | Doors open 6 p.m., event 7-9:30 p.m. | UVA Lawn | This annual UVA tradition was created in the wake of the September 11 attacks as a means to foster unity. What began as a candlelit vigil with students has grown into a larger event that encompasses both the UVA and Charlottesville communities, creating a space for joy, light, and remembrance. Details and livestream link. 

• South Tower Holiday Lighting | Dec. 6-31 | The South Tower will be lighted red and green in celebration of the holiday season. 

Patient Care 

Coming Soon: Interpreters Available for Telehealth Appointments 

Effective Dec. 10, providers may request an interpreter to join telehealth sessions in real time for the following languages: American Sign Language, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, and Spanish. Interpreting services will be provided by Globo, which estimates an interpreter will join your call within 60 seconds of requesting. Look for the “Request Interpreter” button when you join your Epic video client telehealth session and follow the prompts. See the Epic Learning Library tip sheet for more information. The HIT Service Desk is available to provide support and respond to any issues with this new Epic telehealth feature. 

Operations 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include updates to the Declaration of Death by Neurologic Criteria Guideline, updates to the Ordering and Administering Continuous Platelet Transfusions Blood SOP, a new Transfer Acceptance and Waitlist Management: Inpatient, Emergency Department and Observation Patients Medical Center Policy, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Ticket Scheduling Coming for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT will launch ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types on Dec. 10. Access associates, clinical team members who schedule, and providers may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes. Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, Dec. 10 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Service Desk at 434.924.5334. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• UVA Health CEO Dr. Craig Kent, University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton, UPG Chief Clinical Officer Becky Compton, and UPG Executive Director of People Operations Lisa Hudnall talk with Becker’s Hospital Review about plans for improving patient care. 

Patient Care 

• Our two most recent NBC29 segments feature Dr. Robert Shin discussing multiple sclerosis and Dr. Ann Kellams discussing breastfeeding while traveling.  
• University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about using technology to support care providers and how she is evolving as a leader. 
• Dr. Fern Hauck is featured on the VHHA podcast (broadcast on radio stations across Virginia) discussing her care for refugees. 
• Jessica Roark is featured locally and across Virginia (along with a mention in Becker’s Hospital Review) discussing UVA Cancer Center’s work to expand lung cancer screenings in rural Virginia and West Virginia. 
• Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton talks with AJMC about how menopause care is changing. 

Research 

• Dr. Xuemei Huang is highlighted on Virginia Business magazine’s list of 100 people to meet in 2025. 
• Dr. Marina Weiler talks with PBS News Hour about how out-of-body experiences can increase empathy. 
• Dr. Heather Borek talks with Virginia Living about The Socrates Project, a book detailing Virginia’s poisonous plants. 
• Dr. Patrick Jackson is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing bird flu. 
• Newspapers across California share a warning about mushroom chocolate bars that cited research from UVA Health’s Blue Ridge Poison Center. 

Community 

• UVA Health’s charitable donations to nonprofits across Virginia are featured locally and across the state. 

Education 

• Dr. Andrew Wang talks with HCPLive about perioperative guidance for endoscopies for patients taking weight loss medications. 

Human Resources 

Education Benefit Request Deadline 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 10 | The last day for Academic and UVA Health faculty, staff, and team members to submit education benefit requests in Workday for CY 2024 is Dec. 10. To allow plenty of time for review and approval in time for payment in CY 2024, we encourage employees not to wait for the deadline to submit requests. All requests for classes and programs taken in the fall 2024 semester may be submitted in advance of program completion. There is no need to wait for end-of-semester grades. 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, Dec. 11 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates.   

New Health Savings Participants: Spend Your FSA Balance 

Due Tuesday, Dec. 31 | If you're new to the UVA Health Plan Health Savings option in 2025, you can open your HSA in 2025 only after ensuring your Full Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (Full FSA) has a $0.00 balance by Dec. 31. If not, you'll need to wait until Apr. 1, 2025, to access your HSA funds. Explore online purchases from the FSA Online Store for easy spending before the deadline. For more assistance, contact Fidelity at 833.299.5089 or visit Fidelity Net Benefits. 

Happenings 

Stories: The Art of Trish Crowe 

Through Wednesday, Jan. 15 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Stories: The Art of Trish Crowe.” Pictured: Watercolor, “Where to, Alice?” Stop by and check it out! 

2024 Season’s Treatings Donation Drive 

Make your season merry and bright! Season's Treatings is UVA Health Children’s signature holiday event, allowing families to shop free of charge for hospitalized patients and their siblings. To best serve our diverse patient needs, five Amazon wishlists have been created from which supporters can select gifts. Questions? Contact Amy Cesak. 

• High priority wishlist 
• Sensory wishlist 
• Teen wishlist 
• Coping wishlist 
• Technology wishlist 

Holiday Wreath Auction 

Bidding closes Sunday, Dec. 8 | The UVA Cancer Center Wreath Auction is back for the season! UVA Health provided wreath bases, and team members donated their creativity. Come visit the wreaths hanging in the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, check out the auction site, and bid today. All proceeds go toward helping cancer patients experiencing barriers to accessing treatment. Want to donate? 

New Art at UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road 

“Continuum of Care” by Kristopher Castle explores the relationship between UVA Health Orthopedics and UVA Athletics. The six panels illustrate the process a student-athlete navigates after experiencing an injury through recovery. The paintings show spaces familiar to these two departments (as well as to the larger UVA audience) and highlight moments within each of the steps of the continuum of care process. “Injury,” “Evaluation,” “Conference” (a diptych), “Surgery,” and “Therapy” hang in the Executive Conference Room at UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Castle's work is part of several private, academic, and corporate collections, including the UVA’s. 

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

New deadline: Monday, Dec. 9 | 5 p.m. | Established in 2013, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award is presented annually to five individuals (student, faculty, or staff member of the health system), one department, and one community organization. The award recognizes those who embody Dr. King's values and teachings in cultural competence, addressing health care disparities, and/or fostering an environment of inclusiveness in accordance with the institution's mission and values. The award ceremony will be in the Rotunda Dome Room on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m. Learn more and nominate. 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

Support Local Nonprofits and Give Where You Live 

Deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 31 | By donating directly through Give Where You Live, 100% of your contribution will go to the organization of your choice. Find a list of local nonprofits, including those that have historically received significant support from the UVA workforce, on the local giving web page. Read more on Connect. 

Drawing: Sign Up for Blue Ridge Poison Center Newsletter 

Deadline: Jan.10 | Stay Informed with Blue Ridge Poison Center’s newsletters. The Antidote provides prevention tips and education resources for the general public. ToxTalks provides up-to-date information on substance misuse trends, management guidelines, and more for healthcare professionals. Sign up and you can win a prize! Blue Ridge Poison Center will randomly select five team members with UVA email addresses from the mailing list on Jan. 10 to receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Sign up. 

Mindful Eating Class 

Mondays, Jan. 13-March 3 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Register | This class is designed to help people alter their behavior and improve their relationship to food, eating, and their bodies. With mindfulness as the foundation, the class will provide participants with the tools, understanding, and practices to alter unhealthy behavior, thoughts, and habits that are at the root of mindless overeating, binge eating, and body dissatisfaction. Check the Mindfulness Center’s website for cost details. 

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

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Appreciation 

‘Professional and Caring’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:                   

• “I was on a road trip when I had an out-of-the-blue diverticulitis attack and ended up in the UVA Health ER. My entire care while there was exemplary. Everyone was professional and caring, and your response time put other hospitals to shame. Thank you!”  
• “Brooke and Sarah helped me so much emotionally. They turned a traumatic experience into something so much better. I was so thankful for them. I don't know how I could do it without them.” 
• “Dr. Katzenstein was keenly aware that this visit something had changed with me. After almost seven years of having me as his patient. Impressive to me. He listens, explains, and problem solves.” 
• “I continue to be very impressed with Ariel and Emily who are such pleasant and competent schedulers. I have had to make changes to my physical therapy schedule a number of times and they are always willing and able to help me. They're great!” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Dec. 4

Lights of Love Tree Lighting and Caroling 

Thursday, Dec. 5 | 1 p.m. | University Hospital lobby | Enjoy music of the season by the Choirs of Charlottesville High School and our guests of honor from the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, the Riedl family, to kick off the season by lighting the tree. Sponsored by the UVA Hospital Auxiliary. To help the Hospital Auxiliary continue their service of giving, consider making a tax deductible donation to support programs that directly benefit our patients and their families, such as flowers for patients, pet therapy, music therapy, and more. 

Patient Care 

Coming Soon: Interpreters Available for Telehealth Appointments 

Effective Dec. 10, providers may request an interpreter to join telehealth sessions in real time for the following languages: American Sign Language, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, and Spanish. Interpreting services will be provided by Globo, which estimates an interpreter will join your call within 60 seconds of requesting. Look for the “Request Interpreter” button when you join your Epic video client telehealth session and follow the prompts. See the Epic Learning Library tip sheet for more information. The HIT Service Desk is available to provide support and respond to any issues with this new Epic telehealth feature. 

Operations 

MyDining Database Error 

Last night, a MyDining (system for processing patient diet information) database merge involving the UVA Community Health databases inadvertently impacted the MyDining database at University Medical Center. The merge was caught and stopped about one hour into the cutover process. Since all UVA Health sites share a common interface with Epic, all four medical center locations are impacted. 

UVA Health team members should proceed as normal when entering diet orders and changes in Epic. The teams at all sites are actively reconciling diets, admissions, transfers, and discharges between Epic and MyDining and making the necessary corrections. Our process for checking high-risk trays remains intact. While we expect the issue to be fully resolved by tonight, our teams will continue to reconcile through tomorrow to ensure all data is flowing correctly from Epic into MyDining. 

Due to the widespread impact of the interface issues with MyDining, all patients will receive a non-select meal for dinner tonight (Dec. 4) and breakfast tomorrow (Dec. 5). This will allow the teams to focus solely on updating patient meal information and reduce the chance of patients receiving items outside of prescribed therapeutic diets. 

Below is the latest update from our CompassOne technology team involved in escalation. 

• Continue the planned migration from the on-prem server to the cloud server (reduces strain on current on-prem server and completes the previously scheduled migration). 
• Compass HL7 team is adding a filter to block routine "update" messages that are more than 12 hours old (these are NOT order type messages) which will reduce the overall volume by over 75%. Subsequent "update" messages will ensure patients are in the correct locations with correct allergies, etc. This message type is received for patients constantly throughout the day and therefore there is no risk in doing this. 

In the meantime, please use “DiningOne” in Vocera to communicate any patients who may need additional trays. We apologize for this inconvenience and are employing all resources to rectify the problem as quickly as possible. 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Through Monday, Dec. 9; reopens Tuesday, Dec. 10 | Facilities Management will be replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the 2nd level (A) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the 2nd level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions, contact Justin Marshall. 

Ticket Scheduling Coming for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care 

As part of its ongoing work, the Primary Care Optimization Workgroup in partnership with HIT will launch ticket scheduling for 11 common adult and pediatric primary care visit types on Dec. 10. Access associates, clinical team members who schedule, and providers may use ticket scheduling to allow patients to self-schedule for specific visit types within specified timeframes. Tickets may be generated for patients with and without active MyChart accounts for in-person or telehealth visits. The new functionality aims to reduce in-basket volumes while improving the patient experience. To learn more about the clinical and access workflows for ticket scheduling, visit the Epic Learning Library. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include updates to the Declaration of Death by Neurologic Criteria Guideline, updates to the Ordering and Administering Continuous Platelet Transfusions Blood SOP, a new Transfer Acceptance and Waitlist Management: Inpatient, Emergency Department and Observation Patients Medical Center Policy, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Volunteer Services Pet Therapy Dogs: A Tail-Wagging Dose of Unconditional Love 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, meets the special pets and people who go through the time and training needed to be on the pet therapy team. Read more. 

Happenings 

Holiday Wreath Auction 

Bidding closes Sunday, Dec. 8 | The UVA Cancer Center Wreath Auction is back for the season! UVA Health provided wreath bases, and team members donated their creativity. Come visit the wreaths hanging in the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, check out the auction site, and bid today. All proceeds go toward helping cancer patients experiencing barriers to accessing treatment. Want to donate? 

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

New deadline: Monday, Dec. 9 | 5 p.m. | Established in 2013, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award is presented annually to five individuals (student, faculty, or staff member of the health system), one department, and one community organization. The award recognizes those who embody Dr. King's values and teachings in cultural competence, addressing health care disparities, and/or fostering an environment of inclusiveness in accordance with the institution's mission and values. The award ceremony will be in the Rotunda Dome Room on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m. Learn more and nominate. 

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

UVAPrint: Making the Holiday Season Special 

Add a personal touch to your celebrations and gifts with customized calendars, holiday cards, and to/from stickers. UVAPrint offers a range of high quality, in-brand print products — from personalized calendars to keep your team organized or festive cards to send to patients and colleagues — UVAPrint makes the process simple and seamless. The team will help you create professional, beautifully designed materials that reflect the spirit of the season and the excellence of UVA Health. Learn more. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way.  

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | TBD   
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe  
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent  
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe  
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria   
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace  
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Appreciation 

‘Embodying the Best of UVA Health’: Uteam Members of the Month 

Accountability, Stewardship, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Every quarter, UVA Health recognizes Uteam Members of the Month for their outstanding service and their commitment to those ASPIRE values. We're excited to announce the latest winners — from University Medical Center, School of Medicine, and University Physicians Group — honored during the Uteam Member of the Month Quarterly Breakfast in the Education Resource Center in November 2024. Congratulations to all! 

Monday, Dec. 2

Holiday Wreath Auction Now Open 

Bidding closes Sunday, Dec. 8 | The UVA Cancer Center Wreath Auction is back for the season! UVA Health provided wreath bases, and team members donated their creativity. Come visit the wreaths hanging in the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, check out the auction site, and bid today. All proceeds go toward helping cancer patients experiencing barriers to accessing treatment. Want to donate? 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Through Monday, Dec. 9; reopens Tuesday, Dec. 10 | Facilities Management will be replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the 2nd level (A) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the 2nd level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions, contact Justin Marshall. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include updates to the Declaration of Death by Neurologic Criteria Guideline, updates to the Ordering and Administering Continuous Platelet Transfusions Blood SOP, a new Transfer Acceptance and Waitlist Management: Inpatient, Emergency Department and Observation Patients Medical Center Policy, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Winter Weather Safety 

To keep everyone as safe as possible, please begin preparing for winter weather events. When severe enough, these events may cause us to modify our 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. Learn more about winter weather preparedness on Connect.   

• Report an icy patch or area that needs clearing at a UVA Health facility by calling 434.924.2267. 
• Walk Like a Penguin: Keep yourself safe when traversing slippery or icy surfaces. Shane Anderson, Director of Emergency Management, advises keeping your feet under you and taking small steps (like a penguin!) to avoid falling.    
• The UVA Health Status Board is an online hub that communicates team member reporting status and local-level operations status detail for UVA Health medical centers, clinics, and other locations across the health system. 

Leadership 

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall 

Tuesday, Dec. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and Livestream | Please join the Town Hall with K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders to learn more about the latest developments across our organization as we continue our momentum as One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. 

Human Resources 

UVA Health Recruitment Drop-in Sessions 

Wednesdays | 3-6 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 2 | The UVA Health Recruitment team is available for weekly drop-in sessions. Come with questions about job applications, Workday processes, traveler conversions, or any other recruitment-related inquiries. 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures 

The team at the recently opened UVA Health LASIK Northridge is pleased to share that all UVA Health and UVA academic team members and all UVA students are eligible for a 10% discount on LASIK procedures. LASIK is not covered by most insurance plans (including the UVA Health Plan). The out-of-pocket cost is $2,500 per eye, so UVA employees and students can save $250 per eye. To receive the discount, simply inform the scheduling team that you are a UVA employee or student when you schedule your initial evaluation with the clinic. To make an appointment, call 434.982.2010. 

Happenings 

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

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 2 | 5 p.m. | Established in 2013, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Award is presented annually to five individuals (student, faculty, or staff member of the health system), one department, and one community organization. The award recognizes those who embody Dr. King's values and teachings in cultural competence, addressing health care disparities, and/or fostering an environment of inclusiveness in accordance with the institution's mission and values. The award ceremony will be in the Rotunda Dome Room on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m. Learn more and nominate. 

Nominate: Research Achievement Awards 

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 2 | 5 p.m. | These awards aim to recognize faculty for their excellence in research and scholarship leading to the advancement of knowledge and discoveries with significant impact on society. Details. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on:            

• Tuesday, Dec. 3 | 9 a.m.-noon  
• Monday, Dec. 9 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7-10 a.m. 

Cookies, Coffee, and a Conversation About Care After Hospital Discharge 

Tuesday, Dec. 3 | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room | Let’s talk about care after hospital discharge: Have you ever been curious about home health, hospice, or palliative care — and programs offered by Population Health? Questions on Advance Care Planning? Join a cookie and coffee meet-and-greet with representatives from Continuum Home Health, Hospice of the Piedmont, Population Health, and Advance Care Planning. Questions? Contact Catherine Harris. 

Open Forum | Office of the Vice President for Research: Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) — Post-Award 

Wednesday, Dec. 4 | noon-1 p.m. | Join this open forum opportunity in-person or virtually to discuss UVA Research topics and share feedback about future improvements. Information regarding virtual attendance will be provided prior to the sessions. Register. 

Lights of Love Tree Lighting and Caroling 

Thursday, Dec. 5 | 1 p.m. | University Hospital lobby | Enjoy music of the season by the Choirs of Charlottesville High School and our guests of honor from the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, the Riedl family, to kick off the season by lighting the tree. Sponsored by the UVA Hospital Auxiliary. To help the Hospital Auxiliary continue their service of giving, consider making a tax deductible donation to support programs that directly benefit our patients and their families, such as flowers for patients, pet therapy, music therapy, and more. 

Medical Center Hour | Adult RSV Vaccination: The Time Has Come 

Friday, Dec. 6 | 12:15-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center and Zoom | Ann R. Falsey, MD, Professor of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine, will discuss the burden of disease, clinical features, and risk factors for severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease in adults. The history of RSV vaccine development will be reviewed with a focus on adult vaccines. Data from Phase 1-3 clinical trials will be presented for the three currently licensed RSV vaccines as well as real world evidence of effectiveness post licensure. Finally, evolving Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations will be discussed.  

Donate Stocking Stuffers to Volunteer Services 

Deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | noon | Volunteer Services, University Hospital | Volunteers have been making Christmas stockings and now it’s time to collect items to fill them to give out to adult inpatients who will be here on Christmas day. Wish list: holiday window decorations, sun catchers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, word search/crossword/Sudoku books, pencils, journals (no wire), art supplies, holiday fuzzy socks, stocking hats, holiday hats, festive headbands, battery tea lights, mini light strands, mini Christmas games. Drop off items at Volunteer Services or contact LaDelle Gay for more information. Shop the Amazon wish list. 

iDRIV Scholars Program Now Accepting Applications 

Applications due Wednesday, Dec. 18 | Inspiring Diverse Researchers in Virginia (iDRIV) Scholars program is founded on a dual commitment: supporting the success of exceptional investigators and building a diverse research community to enhance our mission of improving human health. Diverse research teams foster greater creativity and productivity, yet this diversity is underrepresented in the current scientific workforce. The iDRIV program aims to accelerate the research careers of early career and aspiring faculty at UVA through education, coaching, mentoring, and sponsorship tailored to early career biomedical science researchers. Learn more. 

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will be shifting our timeline to January, so that we can ring in 2025 together — sharing reflections and resolutions along the way. 

• University Medical Center | Sunday, Jan. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria 
• Fontaine Research Park | Monday, Jan. 13 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | TBD  
• Haymarket Medical Center | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Conference Rooms A & B | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 
• Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Outside Tent 
• Prince William Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 7-8 p.m. | Cafe 
• University Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Northridge | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Marketplace 
• North Fork | Wednesday, Jan. 15 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Drop off family-style buffet 
• Culpeper Medical Center | Thursday Jan. 16 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Board Conference Room | 7-8 p.m., Cafe 

Appreciation 

Shout Out to Our Researchers! 

While many at UVA Health deliver care to our patients or educate students about the delivery of such care, our colleagues conducting research shape the medicine we deliver tomorrow — and how we deliver it. Recent examples: 

• Perineuronal Nets | Research from Harald Sontheimer, PhD, and Bhanu Tewari, PhD, and their collaborators suggests that mysterious net-like structures that surround select neurons in the brain may be the key to better understand and treat Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders.  
• Recurrent Wheezing | Nearly a quarter of children with recurrent wheezing have silent lung infections that would be better treated with antivirals than commonly prescribed steroids that can carry lifelong side effects, research from W. Gerald Teague, MD, and colleagues revealed. 
• Precision Medicine Guidelines | Stephen S. Rich, PhD, and collaborators developed the first comprehensive guidelines for reporting cutting-edge precision medicine research. The guidelines are set to improve patient care and health equity for people around the world. 
• Growth Mindset | Milad Memari, MD, and collaborators issued an important caution about how “growth mindset” can be misapplied in medical education. 
• Long COVID | Jie Sun, PhD, and his team identified a potential treatment for the respiratory symptoms of long COVID after discovering an unknown cause of the condition. 

This is only a sampling of the research that occurs here daily. (More can be found in the UVA Health Newsroom.) We’re grateful to these team members and to all who expand our knowledge of medical science. Thank you, researchers! 

Archive | UVA Health Update

• June 2024
• July 2024
• Aug. 2024
• Sept. 2024
• Oct. 2024
• Nov. 2024