Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025!  

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:   

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.   
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.   
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.    

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Feb. 1-9, reopens Monday, Feb. 10 | 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. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Tuesday, Feb. 4 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Virtual | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | The newest version of Central Clinical Orientation begins Feb. 3. Team members will have Human Resources orientation on Feb. 3 and specialize into the clinical content on Feb. 4. Please visit the new Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for the most up-to-date orientation information, including a side-by-side comparison of the orientation changes. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Craig Kent is featured in a Becker’s Hospital Review story discussing UVA Health initiatives to address physician burnout. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Winston Wu participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing norovirus. 
• Dr. Elias Karroum is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing restless legs syndrome.  
• Dr. Laurie Archbald-Pannone is featured in Virginia Living discussing elder fraud. 
• Dr. Leora Yarboro is quoted by MedPage Today discussing heart support devices. 
• Dr. Craig Kent is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing UVA Health’s recognition by Becker’s Hospital Review for its high quality neuroscience and spine programs. 

Research 

• Research from a team led by Dr. Kara Anderson on the benefits of high intensity exercise is featured in The Daily Mail. 
• Dr. Amit Patel and Dr. Fred Epstein are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new imaging technique to identify potential heart issues. 
• Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova speaks with WGN (Chicago TV) about her life after death research. 
• Dr. Jaideep Kapur is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a clinical trial examining ketamine as a potential treatment for epileptic seizures. 
• Dr. Jason Papin appears on the VHHA podcast (broadcast on radio stations across Virginia and beyond) discussing his research into targeted antibiotics. 
• Dr. Lian-Wang Guo and Dr. Craig Kent are featured in multiple local outlets discussing a potential new technique to spare patients multiple surgeries. 

Community 

• Teresa Baltuano-Post, RN, talks with InsideNOVA about Prince William Medical Center’s educational baby showers. 

Education 

• UVA Health’s partnership with Piedmont Virginia Community College on the Earn While You Learn program is highlighted in the Central Virginian. 

Human Resources 

Hoos Well Portal Opens Soon 

Monday, Feb. 3 | Start earning rewards for healthy activities in the refreshed 2025 Hoos Well portal. Employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan can earn up to $500 each. Log in or create a new account. 

University Medical Center Orientation Update 

Self-service online onboarding is now available for new hires, starting with the Feb. 3 Orientation group. The live, virtual orientation session will still take place on Day One from 8:30-10 a.m., with new hires now able to access self-service videos on the New Hire Portal. Videos cover topics like I-9 documentation, parking, badges, and computing IDs, and can be viewed at their convenience before Day One. For full details, please refer to the Orientation Update email sent to Medical Center Management Group (MCMG) on Monday, Jan. 27. 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Tuesday, Feb. 4 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. Note: Because of scheduling conflicts with the room, the January and February dates are not on Wednesdays. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

Data Privacy Week at UVA Health: Protect Your Data — Adjust Privacy Settings to Your Comfort Level 

Data Privacy Week (Jan. 27-31) is an international effort to empower individuals and organizations to respect privacy, safeguard data, and enable trust. Visit the UVA Health Data Privacy Week web page to learn more and get involved! 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography, starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend upcoming information sessions. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive 

Feb. 1-28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate: 

• Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center. 
• Make a monetary donation. 
• Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. 
• Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903). 

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. 

Heart Month Lunch and Learn Series: Mission Work in Nigeria With Adanna Akujuo, MD 

Wednesday, Feb. 5 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Shenandoah Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | The first Heart Month Lunch and Learn event will feature Dr. Akujuo who will discuss her Mission work in Nigeria. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. Lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m.; presentation starts at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 943 9915 6388; password: P#n3*jFm) 

National Wear Red Day — Send Your Photos to Us 

Friday, Feb. 7 | Uniting millions worldwide to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention for all with a focus on women’s health. Chances are, we all know a woman affected by heart disease and stroke because cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all cancers combined. Together, we can change this — because there is nothing women united with purpose cannot achieve. Email photos of you (and your colleagues) wearing your best red outfits on Feb. 7 and we’ll share them on Connect. (Please include name and department in photo submissions.) 

February Is Black History Month  

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.   

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:  

• Black History Month Opening Celebration: African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health | Friday, Feb. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 2ABC | Registration Required | Lunch will be served. Keynote speaker Rudolph Beverly, Manager, UVA Health Transportation and Distribution, will share insights and reflections on the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. Engage in meaningful discussions and connect with others who are passionate about diversity and inclusion.
• Black Excellence Expo | Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Suite 100. Manassas Park, VA 20111 | Join the UVA Community Health Community Engagement team and medical professionals — as well as authors, entertainers, artists, musicians, and community leaders — to celebrate Black History Month. Attendees can look forward to engaging conversations, creative showcases, and food trucks at this family-friendly event. 
• UVA Health Storytellers | Monday, Feb. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required for on-site at Education Resource Center (Room B) or Zoom | One of the first Black graduates of UVA School of Medicine, and now Professor Emeritus and Associate Director and Program Advisor, Diversity Programs — Moses K. Woode, PhD — shares his academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth.  
• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).  
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. 

Learn more on Connect. 

Valentine’s Day Rose Bouquet 

Pre-order by Sunday, Feb. 9 | Want to send roses to a special someone on Valentine’s Day? Stop by the gift shop in the University Hospital lobby to pre-order a dozen roses for $39.99 (includes vase). 

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. 

Custom Pocket Folders From UVA Print 

UVA Print can make your next project or presentation shine with professional, high quality pocket folders. Whether you need 500, 1,000, or larger quantities, they've got you covered with customizable options tailored to your needs. Pocket folders are perfect for: 

• Distributing patient information in a polished format. 
• Organizing documents for conferences or events. 
• Enhancing your marketing materials with branded packaging. 

Ordering is simple. Contact UVA Print to get started or learn more about how they can support your projects. Visit UVA Print to place an order. 

Appreciation 

‘Cannot Say Enough Wonderful Things’ | 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 cannot say enough good things about Lara Myers, NP, who was our main LIP [licensed independent practitioner] these last three visits. She is knowledgeable, funny, and appropriately concerned about the fallout in your life after a major injury. She has really helped me both with physical healing and emotional healing. She also answered my questions promptly via MyChart and submitted all of the necessary paperwork in a timely manner. A superb clinician!” 
• “I cannot say enough wonderful things about the endocrinology team. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the level of patience and kindness the team had for our questions. It goes beyond professionalism — their care and desire for us to feel confident in this new part of our life is seriously incredible.” 
• “I was extremely pleased by how the doctor and the resident worked together. Dr. Barnett took the time to explain a lot to the resident about the veins in my leg (first asking my permission), allowing me to understand what's going on with my leg. Very pleased with how she interacted with the resident.” 
• “Sarah Foster, hand therapist, heals through her personality. Her profession is second nature, so that she can infuse her joie de vivre with her clients. I was having a soul-hurting day until my appointment with her. I left in a much better frame of mind to handle some deep issues.”   

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

Previous Updates

Wednesday, Jan. 29

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. 

Ambulatory 

New Epic Module Will Streamline Surgery Prep 

Begins Monday, March 3 | As part of UVA Health’s strategic commitment to strengthening our foundation in service of superior patient outcomes — Ambulatory, Anesthesia, and Perioperative leaders are working to optimize preoperative anesthesia triage and assessments with the implementation of a new Epic module called Procedure Pass.    

The new module consolidates critical information in one place and allows everyone involved in the surgical process to monitor patients’ progress through their preoperative anesthesia assessments in real-time. Slated for go-live on March 3, Procedure Pass will touch all procedures performed in the Main Operating Room, Outpatient Surgery Center, and Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Training for providers, nurses, clinical support team members, and surgery schedulers will begin on Feb. 3. To learn more about Procedure Pass and the positive impact it will have for patients and team members alike, read more on Connect. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Feb. 1-9, reopens Monday, Feb. 10 | 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. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Cancer Center’s Community Outreach and Engagement Team Breaks Barriers to Early Cancer Detection 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares how the Community Outreach and Engagement team is addressing cancer disparities through a special partnership. Read more. 

Human Resources 

Hoos Well Portal Opens Soon 

Monday, Feb. 3 | Start earning rewards for healthy activities in the refreshed 2025 Hoos Well portal. Employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan can earn up to $500 each. Log in or create a new account. 

University Medical Center Orientation Update 

Self-service online onboarding is now available for new hires, starting with the Feb. 3 Orientation group. The live, virtual orientation session will still take place on Day One from 8:30-10 a.m., with new hires now able to access self-service videos on the New Hire Portal. Videos cover topics like I-9 documentation, parking, badges, and computing IDs, and can be viewed at their convenience before Day One. For full details, please refer to the Orientation Update email sent to Medical Center Management Group (MCMG) on Monday, Jan. 27. 

Happenings 

Data Privacy Week at UVA Health: Respect Privacy — It Is Critical to Inspiring Trust 

Data Privacy Week (Jan. 27-31) is an international effort to empower individuals and organizations to respect privacy, safeguard data, and enable trust. Visit the UVA Health Data Privacy Week web page to learn more and get involved. 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography, starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend upcoming information sessions. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

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. 

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. 

National Wear Red Day — Send Your Photos to Us 

Friday, Feb. 7 | Uniting millions worldwide to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention for all with a focus on women’s health. Chances are, we all know a woman affected by heart disease and stroke because cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all cancers combined. Together, we can change this — because there is nothing women united with purpose cannot achieve. Email photos of you (and your colleagues) wearing your best red outfits on Feb. 7 and we’ll share them on Connect. (Please include name and department in photo submissions.) 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.  

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — ODCE is offering this list below of events: 

• Black History Month Opening Celebration: African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health | Friday, Feb. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 2ABC | Registration Required | Lunch will be served. Keynote speaker Rudolph Beverly, Manager, UVA Health Transportation and Distribution, will share insights and reflections on the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. Engage in meaningful discussions and connect with others who are passionate about diversity and inclusion. 
• UVA Health Storytellers | Monday, Feb. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required for on-site at Education Resource Center, Room B or for virtual on Zoom | One of the first Black graduates of UVA School of Medicine, and now Professor Emeritus and Associate Director and Program Advisor, Diversity Programs — Moses K. Woode, PhD — shares his academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth. 
• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Feb. 24, 12-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).
• Book of The Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Feb. 27, 12-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.

Learn more on Connect. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025  

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.  

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | NOWS (Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome) Intro, Part 1: Epidemiology and Screening 
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console 
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder) 
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future 
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations Are Open 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week Charlottesville Medical Center Summer High School Junior Volunteer Program. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please reach out to Maureen Oswald. 

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. Examples:  

• Breastfeeding Success | Too much emphasis is placed on breastfeeding duration and not enough on the many outside factors that determine breastfeeding success, Ann Kellams, MD (pictured), and collaborators concluded.  
• Hot Flash Drug | The investigational drug elinzanetant significantly reduced both frequency and severity of hot flashes associated with menopause while improving women’s sleep and quality of life, JoAnn V. Pinkerton, MD, and collaborators found.  
• Brain Metastases | An international panel of top cancer doctors led by UVA Health experts identified indicators that reflect the effectiveness of coordinated team care to improve outcomes for patients with brain metastases. 
• Better Sleep for Caregivers | The SHUTi sleep intervention developed at UVA showed promise for helping caregivers with insomnia get much-needed rest. 
• Blood Pressure Control | R. Ariel Gomez, MD; Maria Luisa S. Sequeira-Lopez, MD; Jason P. Smith, PhD; and their collaborators discovered how certain cells have the amazing ability to transform their function to help our bodies control our blood pressure. 

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! 

Monday, Jan. 27

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | January is National Blood Donor Month. Start the year off by giving the gift of life — one donation can save up to three lives. We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. Contact Sharon Jones to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. Details. 

Ambulatory

New Epic Module Will Streamline Surgery Prep 

Begins Monday, March 3 | As part of UVA Health’s strategic commitment to strengthening our foundation in service of superior patient outcomes — Ambulatory, Anesthesia, and Perioperative leaders are working to optimize preoperative anesthesia triage and assessments with the implementation of a new Epic module called Procedure Pass.   

The new module consolidates critical information in one place and allows everyone involved in the surgical process to monitor patients’ progress through their preoperative anesthesia assessments in real-time. Slated for go-live on March 3, Procedure Pass will touch all procedures performed in the Main Operating Room, Outpatient Surgery Center, and Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Training for providers, nurses, clinical support team members, and surgery schedulers will begin on Feb. 3. To learn more about Procedure Pass and the positive impact it will have for patients and team members alike, read more on Connect. 

Operations 

UVA to Test Emergency Notification System

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10:50-11 a.m. | During this time, the University will test all components of its emergency notification system. When the test is over, a “test complete” message will be issued. UVA’s siren and public address system will be included in the test. All current students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members with a valid UVA email account will automatically receive an email alert. Students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members who provided a phone number during orientation or onboarding will also automatically receive a text alert. For details, refer to the Jan. 21 email from Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Timothy J. Longo Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police. 

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. 

Human Resources 

Hoos Well Portal Opens Soon 

Monday, Feb. 3 | Start earning rewards for healthy activities in the refreshed 2025 Hoos Well portal. Employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan can earn up to $500 each. Log in or create a new account. 

Happenings 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography, starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend upcoming information sessions. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Sessions through Thursday, Jan. 30 | 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. 

Data Privacy Week at UVA Health: Know the Tradeoff Between Privacy and Convenience 

Data Privacy Week (Jan. 27-31) is an international effort to empower individuals and organizations to respect privacy, safeguard data, and enable trust. Head over to the UVA Health Data Privacy Week web page to learn more and get involved.  

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: 

• Wednesday, Feb. 5 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Thursday, Feb. 13 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Friday, Feb. 21 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Monday, Feb. 24 | 1-4 p.m. 

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 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:  

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.  
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 

Printers, Copiers, Faxes, and Scanners From UVA Print 

UVA Print offers leasing options on multi-function office equipment. Their dedicated team proudly serves many UVA Health locations throughout Virginia, and they would be happy to work with your team, too. They offer a wide variety of Ricoh printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines of various sizes and capabilities, so they’ll be sure to find you the perfect fit for your office. Plus, by leasing through UVA Print, you can rest assured that you are getting: 

• Quick service from the team of technicians based on Grounds. 
• Refills of toner and other supplies on demand. 
• Easy-to-use Print Service Portal for placing and monitoring all service and supply calls. 

Email printer@virginia.edu today to start your order. They will work with you to find the perfect model and personalize it to meet the needs of you and your team. 

Appreciation 

‘A Higher Standard of Care’ 

Each year, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization honors a UVA Health University Medical Center nurse leader with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. At a presentation in January 2025, Heart and Vascular Center Administrator Karen Forsman and DAISY Award Committee Chair Crystal Richard, BSN, RN, CCRN, surprised Cardiac Catheterization Lab Nurse Manager Jennifer Killmer, MSN, RN, CCRN, with the award.  

"I know that this surprise will be a highlight of my career — not just receiving the award, but the care and kind words my team gave me as they congratulated me. I am so proud to work on a team that not only recognizes excellence in teammates, but also puts the energy into celebrating that excellence!” says Killmer. 

On Connect, read more of her reaction and the nominations that earned Killmer the distinction, and see photos of the emotional presentation. 

Congratulations to Killmer and thank you to the Cardiac Catheterization Lab for supporting our strategic plan initiatives including working as One UVA Health Team — providing superior quality, patient safety and outcomes, and easy access and experience of care. 

Friday, Jan. 24

University Hospital Entrance Changes  

Following cold weather conditions earlier in the week — which required us to lock the side doors along the front lobby during the evening and morning hours — we will return to normal entry operations beginning at noon, Friday, Jan. 24. All side doors surrounding the revolving doors will be unlocked and available for entry.  

• Eastgate and Northgate: We are excited to share that after consulting with University Medical Center Security, we have made the decision to keep the Eastgate open Monday through Friday, 5 a.m.-9 p.m., which is located across from the 11th Street Garage. This will allow team members to enter the building with their badges. (The badge reader is located on the building column to the right of the doors). When entering the Eastgate, please be mindful of “piggybacking” to ensure all entering are UVA Health team members. The doors will be locked 9 p.m.-5 a.m. to safeguard our team members and patients. The Northgate entrance (across from the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center) will return to a locked status and will not be accessible by team members or patients. 
• Gamma Knife entrance: The Gamma Knife entrance also presents cold weather challenges. Because of the current weather conditions, we have placed a temporary sign at the bottom of the Gamma Knife ramp directing team members to use the loading dock door when entering the facility. 

Thank you to our Welcome Team, Facilities, and Safety and Security team members for acting quickly to ensure our team members, patients, and their families have a warm environment upon arrival and to all team members for braving the winter weather and coming into the hospital to care for our patients. 

Ambulatory 

New Epic Module Will Streamline Surgery Prep 

Begins Monday, March 3 | As part of UVA Health’s strategic commitment to strengthening our foundation in service of superior patient outcomes — Ambulatory, Anesthesia, and Perioperative leaders are working to optimize preoperative anesthesia triage and assessments with the implementation of a new Epic module called Procedure Pass.  

The new module consolidates critical information in one place and allows everyone involved in the surgical process to monitor patients’ progress through their preoperative anesthesia assessments in real-time. Slated for go-live on March 3, Procedure Pass will touch all procedures performed in the Main Operating Room, Outpatient Surgery Center, and Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Training for providers, nurses, clinical support team members, and surgery schedulers will begin on Feb. 3. To learn more about Procedure Pass and the positive impact it will have for patients and team members alike, read more on Connect. 

Operations 

UVA to Test Emergency Notification System 

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10:50-11 a.m. | During this time, the University will test all components of its emergency notification system. When the test is over, a “test complete” message will be issued. UVA’s siren and public address system will be included in the test. All current students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members with a valid UVA email account will automatically receive an email alert. Students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members who provided a phone number during orientation or onboarding will also automatically receive a text alert. For details, refer to the Jan. 21 email from Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Timothy J. Longo Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton is featured on the Back Story podcast, discussing her career in academic medicine. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Ludimila Cavalcante participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing sarcomas. 
• Dr. Jeffrey Wilson talks with The Washington Post about how a meat allergy can trigger serious reactions to some medications.  
• UVA Health’s new pediatric neurodevelopmental and behavioral health clinic is highlighted by Becker’s Hospital Review. 
• Dr. Jose Mattos and Dr. Steven Munger are featured locally, in Roanoke, and on WTOP in Washington, D.C., (no link available) discussing UVA Health’s new Center for Smell and Taste Disorders. 
• University Medical Center was named to Money magazine’s 2025 list of best hospitals for maternity care. 

Research 

• Dr. Fern Hauck and Research Assistant Professor of Neurology Chad Aldridge are featured locally, across Virginia, in Chicago, on TV stations nationally, and on Yahoo discussing a potential way to identify babies at risk for SIDS. 
• The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology is highlighted in The Daily Progress and News Virginian as part of a story on a new Charlottesville bioaccelerator. 
• Dr. Anita Clayton is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing factors that hinder treatment for depression. 
• Dr. Cate Varney is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the potential for Medicare to cover weight loss medications. 

Community 

• Director of Community Partnerships and Health Equity Jackie Martin talks with NBC29 about a partnership with Charlottesville City Schools to provide free sports physicals. 

Education 

• Art Program Coordinator Anne Brown talks with CBS19 about University Medical Center hosting an art show featuring work by students from Albemarle County Public Schools. 

Human Resources 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures 

The team at 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 

Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky | The Art of Aleona Isakova 

Through Wednesday, March 12 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky.” Pictured: Inspired by African Ankara fabric Giclee with gold, hand-painted. Stop by and check it out! 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | January is National Blood Donor Month. Start the year off by giving the gift of life — one donation can save up to three lives. We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. Contact Sharon Jones to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. 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. 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations: 

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Custom Pocket Folders From UVA Print 

UVA Print can make your next project or presentation shine with professional, high quality pocket folders. Whether you need 500, 1,000, or larger quantities, they've got you covered with customizable options tailored to your needs. Pocket folders are perfect for:    

• Distributing patient information in a polished format.    
• Organizing documents for conferences or events.    
• Enhancing your marketing materials with branded packaging.    

Ordering is simple. Contact UVA Print to get started or learn more about how they can support your projects. Visit UVA Print to place an order. 

Appreciation 

‘Everyone Was Just Amazing’ | 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:       

• “Everyone was just amazing. I've had very poor experiences at other emergency departments — this was not like that at all. I feel confident in the treatment I received. I'm switching all of my doctors over to UVA Health — and I live 1.5 hours away. Everyone was amazing from the second I walked in to the second I left. 10/10!”  
• “I had the pleasure of having Gary Malnowski fit and remake my custom orthotics. Gary is very kind, knowledgeable, helpful, and an absolute asset to the Prosthetic and Orthotics Department. Gary is patient, listens, and provides reassurance in what could be a stressful process. I would highly recommend Gary to anyone in need of his services!” 
• “Dr. Flowers may well be the kindest person I have ever met. I am old and he never makes me feel uncomfortable. He never makes me feel bad. He is working to cure my skin problem.” 
• “I am thankful for the care received at UVA Health medical facility and extremely grateful to Dr. Campbell and his team for their exceptional attention and medical care. Dr. Campbell's attention to detail, willingness to listen to my concerns, and tailored approach to addressing my specific needs exceeded my expectations. He demonstrated a deep understanding of my medical needs and communicated clearly about realistic outcomes, which gave a sense of confidence and comfort in moving forward with treatment. Additionally, nurse Lindsey has gone above and beyond to assist me — given the frequent 5+ hour commute — throughout this process. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine willingness to help ensured that everything was handled smoothly and efficiently. She truly made a challenging process much easier to navigate, and her support was invaluable.” 

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

Wednesday, Jan. 22

Entering University Hospital During Cold Weather 

On Jan. 21, Min Lee, MBA, Chief Operating Officer shared via email: “With the weather temperatures forecasted to be severely low this week, our University Hospital will be locking all side doors surrounding the revolving doors during the evening and morning hours to prevent cold air from infiltrating the lobby. Both team members and patients will be directed to enter through the revolving door. Anyone requiring assistance — such as those in a wheelchair — will be aided by a member from the Welcome Team. 

“Alternatively, team members may also enter through either the Eastgate (across from the 11th Street Garage), which requires badge access, or the Northgate (across from the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center). When accessing the hospital through the Eastgate, please be mindful of 'piggybacking' and ensure all persons entering are UVA Health team members.  

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. At this time, we expect to return to normal operations using the University Hospital main lobby doors on Friday. Both Northgate and Eastgate will then be locked to maintain access control for the safety and security of patients and team members. Thank you for your patience.” 

Ambulatory 

New Epic Module Will Streamline Surgery Prep 

Begins Monday, March 3 | As part of UVA Health’s strategic commitment to strengthening our foundation in service of superior patient outcomes — Ambulatory, Anesthesia, and Perioperative leaders are working to optimize preoperative anesthesia triage and assessments with the implementation of a new Epic module called Procedure Pass. 

The new module consolidates critical information in one place and allows everyone involved in the surgical process to monitor patients’ progress through their preoperative anesthesia assessments in real-time. Slated for go-live on March 3, Procedure Pass will touch all procedures performed in the Main Operating Room, Outpatient Surgery Center, and Orthopedic Center Ivy Road. Training for providers, nurses, clinical support team members, and surgery schedulers will begin on Feb. 3. To learn more about Procedure Pass and the positive impact it will have for patients and team members alike, read more on Connect. 

Operations 

UVA to Test Emergency Notification System 

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10:50-11 a.m. | During this time, the University will test all components of its emergency notification system. When the test is over, a “test complete” message will be issued. UVA’s siren and public address system will be included in the test. All current students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members with a valid UVA email account will automatically receive an email alert. Students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members who provided a phone number during orientation or onboarding will also automatically receive a text alert. For details, refer to the Jan. 21 email from Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Timothy J. Longo Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police. 

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 

Welcoming Dr. Andrew Markowski as Chief Medical Information Officer 

Andrew J. Markowski, MD, MPH, has joined UVA Health as our new Chief Medical Information Officer. Dr. Markowski is a highly accomplished leader in clinical informatics and emergency medicine, bringing deep expertise in aligning clinical workflows with technology to improve patient care and clinician efficiency.   

Dr. Markowski most recently served as Medical Informatics Director of Clinical Communication at Johns Hopkins Medicine, where he focused on system integration and unified clinical communications across the health system. His leadership in optimizing Epic to meet clinical and operational needs has made a lasting impact on patient safety, communication, and workflow improvement. In addition, he held several key leadership roles at Johns Hopkins Medicine’s Suburban Hospital, including Chief Medical Information Officer and Medical Director of Clinical Informatics. Read more on Connect. 

Welcoming Francis Caruccio as New Administrator of Facilities Planning and Operations 

Francis Caruccio has joined UVA Health as our new Administrator of Facilities Planning and Operations for the University Medical Center, effective Jan. 21. In this role, Caruccio will oversee master campus planning, capital projects, life safety, and — in partnership with the University — facility maintenance. 

A consummate professional with decades of experience in engineering and facilities planning, Caruccio has spent the last several years working as a consultant in the Charlottesville area, during which he has helped numerous organizations get the most out of their spaces and places of work. Prior to that, Caruccio worked at Augusta Health in Fishersville, Virginia, where he held multiple responsibilities, including oversight and direction of maintenance and operations, engineering services, facility planning and design, capital and infrastructure projects, and many other areas. Please join us in welcoming Caruccio to University Medical Center, and the broader UVA Health team. For details, please refer to the Jan. 21 email from Min Lee, MBA, MHA, Chief Operating Officer. 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Photos from the New Year Celebration 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares some of her favorite photos from our UVA Health celebratory events. Read more. 

Happenings 

National CRNA Week: Exceptional Care, Innovative Leaders 

National CRNA Week (Jan. 19-25) is the annual celebration of the nearly 74,000 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists in the United States. CRNAs, who safely administer more than 58 million anesthetics each year, deliver exceptional care to patients who rely on these innovative leaders to protect them during their most vulnerable moments. 

We have 68 CRNAs on staff across all Charlottesville-based UVA Health facilities. Our UVA Health CRNAs cover a wide variety of cases, including many advanced cases covered by specialty teams, including major vascular, non-invasive cardiac. pediatrics, pediatric cardiac, labor and delivery, GI patient screening and triage, and regional/orthopedic practice. They work closely with the Anesthesia Department, Perioperative Services, and Center for Advanced Practice.   

They also have clinical affiliation agreements with five Nurse Anesthesia programs in the nation, which support student nurse anesthetist training and education. Those programs are with John’s Hopkins University, Mary Baldwin University, Georgetown University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia in Nashville.  

We are so proud of their accomplishments and the work they aim to do in the future. Please join us in celebrating our UVA CRNAs! (Photo by Holly Atkinson.) 

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Sessions through Thursday, Jan. 30 | 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. 

Team Member Art Day 

Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

Martin Luther King Jr. Week Events and Resources  

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day fell on Jan. 20 — and the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has declared "A Call for Health Equity Is a Call for Humanity" as our theme for this week. The office has provided a list of self-reflection resources on Connect for the day and year-round, and is promoting the following events planned the rest of the week to help commemorate the legacy of the civil rights icon:    

• 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., University of Virginia Health System Awards | Thursday, Jan. 23 | 5-8 p.m. | The Rotunda | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing. 
• Introduction to Transforming Community Spaces Through Equitable Collaboration| Friday, Jan. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 

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:                 

• Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1-4 p.m. 
• Monday, Jan. 27 | 9 a.m.-noon 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | January is National Blood Donor Month. Start the year off by giving the gift of life — one donation can save up to three lives. We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. Contact Sharon Jones to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. Details. 

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. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. Register. 

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 4-5 p.m. | NOWS (Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome) Intro, Part 1: Epidemiology and Screening 
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 4-5 p.m. | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console 
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | 4-5 p.m. | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder) 
• Wednesday, March 5 | 4-5 p.m. | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future 
• Wednesday, March 12 | 4-5 p.m. | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 

2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations Are Open 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week Charlottesville Medical Center Summer High School Junior Volunteer Program. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please reach out to Maureen Oswald. 

Appreciation 

‘Powerful Catalyst’ 

Bart Ragon, EdD, MLIS — Director, UVA Claude Moore Health Sciences Library and Director of Strategic Development, integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia (iTHRIV) — has been recognized on The CEO’s List for his outstanding leadership and accomplishments in library and information science. 

He led a national initiative resulting in the publication of “The Role of Information Science Within the Clinical Translational Science Ecosystem” — co-authored with more than 20 librarians nationwide — in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science. Read more on Connect.  

Ragon believes the article can serve as a powerful catalyst for new discussions across academic and healthcare institutions. “This work can be used as a strong foundation for Translational Science Hubs [TSH] and libraries to explore how they can collaborate to foster translational science innovation and implementation, advancing the goals of the Clinical and Translational Science Awards Program and other translational initiatives.”   

At an upcoming Association for Clinical and Translational Science conference in Washington, D.C., Ragon is organizing a panel of librarians, researchers, and administrators from UVA Health (Ragon and Sandra G. Burks, RN, BSN, CCRC, Program Director, iTHRIV), New York University, Johns Hopkins University, and Indiana University. He’s also been elected to the Board of the Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL).  

Since 2022, Ragon has strengthened the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library’s national position through innovative strategies that empower knowledge, discovery, and patient care. 

Friday, Jan. 17

Martin Luther King Jr. Week Events and Resources  

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Jan. 20 — and the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has declared "A Call for Health Equity Is a Call for Humanity" as our theme for that week. The office has provided a list of self-reflection resources on Connect for the day and year-round, and is promoting the following events planned the rest of that week to help commemorate the legacy of the civil rights icon:    

• National Day of Racial Healing Luncheon featuring the theme, "Racial Healing: The Heart of Racial Equity" | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | noon-2 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement.    
• DEI Book of the Month Signing: Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 2-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public | Guest Author Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.     
• Introduction to Coming to The Table | Wednesday, Jan. 22 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE.    
• 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., University of Virginia Health System Awards | Thursday, Jan. 23 | 5-8 p.m. | The Rotunda | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing.   
• Introduction to Transforming Community Spaces Through Equitable Collaboration| Friday, Jan. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 

Ambulatory 

Primary Care: Patients Can Submit E-Visits 

Nearly one year ago, E-Visits launched in adult primary care as a way for busy providers to bill for complex MyChart message responses. E-Visits were not patient discoverable when they launched last March. As providers and clinical teams now have had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the E-Visit workflow, E-Visits became patient discoverable as of Jan. 14, providing an additional channel for patient access. For more information, please see the following resources:   

• Provider FAQs   
• Nurses and Clinical Team Member FAQs   
• E-Visits User Guide on the Epic Learning Library 

Operations 

Construction Impact: MRI Expansion Project 

Saturday, Jan. 18 | 7a.m.-3 p.m. | As part of the MRI Expansion Project in University Hospital, an MRI machine is being delivered which will cause a section of sidewalk and one lane of Crispell Drive to be closed. Flaggers will direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Crispell Drive during the delivery. Signage will be installed the week of Jan. 13 to indicate which parking spaces will be temporarily unavailable during the work. 

Impacts of Martin Luther King Jr. Day 

Monday, Jan. 20 

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed. 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications: 
  • University Transit Service bus and the Health System Fontaine and Northridge shuttle service will not operate Monday, Jan. 20. 
  • 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) Monday, Jan. 20. 
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Tuesday, Jan. 21. 
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Monday: 
  • 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 Monday, Jan. 20. It will resume Wednesday, Jan. 22. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Orientation on Wednesday, Jan. 22, will be virtual. Please visit the new Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for the most up-to-date orientation information including what to do in case of inclement weather. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Craig Kent is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new biotechnology accelerator coming to the Charlottesville area. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Heather Spader participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing UVA Health Children’s craniofacial care for kids. 
• Dr. James Stone talks with The Washington Post about how repeated blast exposures can harm soldiers’ mental health.  
• Dr. Neeral Shah is featured on With Good Reason (airing on 135 NPR affiliates nationally) discussing Dry January. 
• Dr. Anna Fashandi is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a treatment for thyroid nodules. 
• Dr. Michael Ayers is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the importance of staying active during winter. 
• Dr. Craig Kent appears on the Becker’s Hospital Review podcast, discussing UVA Health’s future plans, and in a Becker’s Hospital Review story on the challenges health systems will face over the next five years. 

Research 

• Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills is featured on Freakonomics Radio (airing on close to 300 NPR affiliates nationally) discussing allergies. 
• Dr. Boris Kovatchev is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing his research that shows continuous glucose monitors accurately predict diabetes complications. 
• Dr. Fern Hauck talks with Healio about what to do if you begin falling asleep while breastfeeding. 
• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured on media outlets across Virginia and TV stations nationally discussing the decline in opioid overdoses in 2024. 
• Dr. Melissa Little’s research findings that U.S. soldiers are 10 times more likely to use nicotine pouches continues to receive strong coverage locally, in military-focused publications, and Yahoo. 

Community 

• A $2 million donation from the Cecil and Irene Hylton Foundation to Prince William Medical Center’s mother-baby unit is featured in news outlets across Virginia and on Yahoo. 

Education 

• Dr. Jason Papin and biomedical engineering student Emma Glass are featured locally and in Roanoke discussing a potential new approach to combating antibiotic resistance. 

Happenings 

Student Art at University Hospital 

Through November 2025 | The UVA Health Arts Committee and Albemarle County Schools Arts Programs are collaborating to bring student art to the health system. The first exhibit is scheduled to run Jan. 20-March 14. The art will hang in the lobby of University Hospital alongside our scheduled rotating fine artists. Stop by and check it out! 

Coping With Inauguration Day Stress 

For some, Inauguration Day can cause mixed emotions and stress. To assist, UVA Health Wisdom and Well-being Program has gathered resources to share with your colleagues and patients if they reveal that they are struggling. Calling friends for support, limiting exposure to the news, and taking a walk or going to the gym can be helpful in reducing stress. If you need additional support, contact the Faculty and Employee Assistance Program (FEAP) for help.  

Additional resources: 

• How to Cope With Inauguration Day Stress (Case Western Reserve University) 
• The Reality of Pre-Inauguration Stress (Psychology Today, Jan. 15, 2021) 
• Coping With Political Stress: Understanding and Moving Through Freeze (Lumos Transforms) 
• How to Protect Your Mental Health Before (and After) Inauguration Day (Well+Good) 
• The Significance of Inauguration Day in the U.S. and How to Navigate Change in Leadership (BetterHelp.com) 

Team Member Art Day 

Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations Are Open  

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

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. 

Custom Pocket Folders From UVA Print 

UVA Print can make your next project or presentation shine with professional, high quality pocket folders. Whether you need 500, 1,000, or larger quantities, they've got you covered with customizable options tailored to your needs. Pocket folders are perfect for:   

• Distributing patient information in a polished format.   
• Organizing documents for conferences or events.   
• Enhancing your marketing materials with branded packaging.   

Ordering is simple. Contact UVA Print to get started or learn more about how they can support your projects. Visit UVA Print to place an order. 

Appreciation 

‘Kindness and Dedication to Their Work’ | 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:      

• “A special call out for the Emergency Department having a child life specialist available even during the evening hours. She was amazing and really helped our son be informed, empowered, and brave.” 
• “Dr. Muck was the Platonic idea of a great doctor — humane, caring, compassionate, understanding, reassuring, and professional. I knew I was in good hands. He knew what he was talking about — and he wasn't just talking. He was listening and observing and being a warm, funny, kind human.” 
• "I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Victoria and Melinda at the UVA Health registration desk. I recently had the pleasure of meeting them when I registered for a doctor's appointment. Both Victoria and Melinda were not only incredibly happy and helpful, but also highly professional and genuinely interested in solving any questions I had. Their kindness and dedication to their work were truly evident, and it was clear to me that they love what they do. Thank you, Victoria and Melinda, for your exceptional service and warm demeanor.” 
• “Whilst in biz school in Boston, we had a case study about a hospital emergency room team meeting with NASCAR pit crews and how their processes might be applied to an emergency room where speed and error-free work is required. It reminded me of how well the UVA Imagining team worked together.” 

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

Wednesday, Jan. 15

Patient Care and Parking 

From leadership: “On Jan. 14, we experienced a troubling situation: our University Medical Center ran out of parking for patients seeking care. This resulted in patients being delayed or even missing critical appointments — an outcome we must work together to prevent in the future. In reviewing what happened, we recognize this issue took place because of multiple factors, including a high volume of patient visits, team members parking in unauthorized areas (like the Lee Street Garage and West Complex Parking Lot), and increased use of the 11th Street Garage by team members.” Read the full message on KnowledgeLink. 

Immediate Parking Updates 

• Increased Enforcement. Starting Jan. 15, we will increase enforcement of unauthorized parking in the Lee Street and 11th Street Garages, as well as the West Complex Parking Lot, including more frequent ticketing and booting for repeat violations. Managers will also be informed of team members with multiple offenses so that coaching and/or disciplinary actions can be taken. 11th Street Garage permit holders, which are UVA Health team members, are assigned to park on levels D-G. All other spaces are reserved for our patients. Keeping them available ensures patients can receive the care they need without unnecessary barriers. It’s one of the simplest ways we can uphold our ASPIRE values and deliver on our commitment to patient care. 
• Volunteers Needed. If you are a current permit holder parking in the 11th Street Garage, we encourage you to volunteer to park in an alternative location. Your willingness to make this change could directly prevent a patient from missing an appointment. For information on alternative parking options, please email parking@virginia.edu.  
• Wahoo Commute Program. We also encourage team members to consider alternative transportation methods through the Wahoo Commute program. Participants can earn daily cash rewards, enter monthly raffles for cash prizes, and receive free emergency rides home if needed. Learn more.  
• Your Role in Patient Care. Every team member at UVA Health plays a role in ensuring our patients receive the best possible care. The small action of parking in the appropriate location makes a huge difference for someone arriving for an appointment — especially those who may be feeling anxious, scared, or in pain. 

Ambulatory 

Primary Care: Patients Can Submit E-Visits 

Nearly one year ago, E-Visits launched in adult primary care as a way for busy providers to bill for complex MyChart message responses. E-Visits were not patient discoverable when they launched last March. As providers and clinical teams now have had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the E-Visit workflow, E-Visits became patient discoverable as of Jan. 14, providing an additional channel for patient access. For more information, please see the following resources:  

• Provider FAQs  
• Nurses and Clinical Team Member FAQs  
• E-Visits User Guide on the Epic Learning Library 

Operations 

Construction Impact: MRI Expansion Project 

Saturday, Jan. 18 | 7a.m.-3 p.m. | As part of the MRI Expansion Project in University Hospital, an MRI machine is being delivered which will cause a section of sidewalk and one lane of Crispell Drive to be closed. Flaggers will direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Crispell Drive during the delivery. Signage will be installed the week of Jan. 13 to indicate which parking spaces will be temporarily unavailable during the work. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Orientation on Wednesday, Jan. 22, will be virtual. Please visit the new Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for the most up-to-date orientation information including what to do in case of inclement weather. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

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 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Cultivating Healthy Communities and Belonging for All: Mobile Care 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, celebrates the launch of a program designed to bring routine healthcare directly to neighborhoods where access is often limited. Read more. 

Happenings 

UVA Health Arts Program Collaborates With Local Students 

Jan. 20-Nov. 2025 | University Hospital lobby | The UVA Health and Albemarle County Public Schools art programs are collaborating on our first student art show. The shows will rotate every ten weeks through November and will represent a range of framed art from K-12 students. This collaboration allows us to continue to merge our work at UVA Health with our local community. 

Martin Luther King Jr. Week Events and Resources  

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Jan. 20 — and the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has declared "A Call for Health Equity Is a Call for Humanity" as our theme for that week. The office has provided a list of self-reflection resources on Connect for the day and year-round, and is promoting the following events planned the rest of that week to help commemorate the legacy of the civil rights icon:   

• National Day of Racial Healing Luncheon featuring the theme, "Racial Healing: The Heart of Racial Equity" | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | noon-2 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement.   
• DEI Book of the Month Signing: Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 2-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public | Guest Author Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.    
• Introduction to Coming to The Table | Wednesday, Jan. 22 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE.   
• 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., University of Virginia Health System Awards | Thursday, Jan. 23 | 5-8 p.m. | The Rotunda | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing.  
• Introduction to Transforming Community Spaces Through Equitable Collaboration| Friday, Jan. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 

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. 

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

Appreciation 

‘Best Possible Outcomes for Patients’

Two UVA Health team members are making a national impact. Valerie Quick, MSN, RN, TCRN, EMT-I, Trauma Program Manager, has been appointed by the Emergency Nurses Association Board of Directors to serve on the 2025 National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (NEMSAC). “Your expertise and vision will be a great asset to this group as we continue to move ENA forward as the leader in emergency nursing,” hails the board. 

“Patient care and good outcomes begin with emergency medical services [EMS],” says Quick. ”I’m very excited to be advocating for this important part of our healthcare system.” 

The UVA School of Nursing alum has worked for UVA Health for 16 years. 

Jermaine Clayborne, MSN, APRN, NNP-BC, NEA-BC, CCRN, CFRN, FP-C, Medical Transport Network Director, has served on the council since 2024 and has been selected as its 2025 chair. He calls it “humbling and inspiring.” 

He adds, “I’m excited to continue collaborating with this team and the ENA to strengthen the vital connection between EMS and emergency nursing — ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.” 

Also a UVA School of Nursing alum — Clayborne has worked for UVA Health for more than a decade. 

Congratulations to Quick and Clayborne, and thank you to them and to all emergency medical services team members at UVA Health for supporting our mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond. 

Monday, Jan. 13

Celebrating You and the Year Ahead 

From senior leadership: As we enter a new year, we want to take a moment to reflect on all that we accomplished together in 2024. Your dedication, compassion, and expertise have shaped our ability to deliver exceptional care to our patients and their families. Every moment you spent working toward our shared mission made a profound difference to all the communities we serve. 
 
To further commemorate all we have achieved together, we are thrilled to share a video highlighting key moments and milestones from 2024. This video reflects on the incredible efforts of the UVA Health team, showcasing the dedication and impact that defined our year. We invite you to take a few minutes to celebrate the work of your colleagues and reflect on the impact you have had. 

Previously, UVA Health hosted a system-wide celebration in December, during which we organized seasonal meals and other fun activities. This year, we will celebrate the start of 2025 with special events to honor the remarkable contributions of our 18,000-strong team. We hope you will join us to connect, recharge, and begin this year with renewed energy and purpose. 

• 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 

Thank you for everything you’ve accomplished and continue to do. We are excited to see what we will achieve together in 2025. 

Ambulatory 

Primary Care: Patients Can Submit E-Visits Starting Jan. 14 

Nearly one year ago, E-Visits launched in adult primary care as a way for busy providers to bill for complex MyChart message responses. E-Visits were not patient discoverable when they launched last March. As providers and clinical teams now have had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the E-Visit workflow, E-Visits will become patient discoverable starting Jan. 14, providing an additional channel for patient access. For more information, please see the following resources:  

• Provider FAQs 
• Nurses and Clinical Team Member FAQs 
• E-Visits User Guide on the Epic Learning Library 

Operations 

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, Jan. 14 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services, as well as all Epic users, Access/Patient Access Team, and Optime/Anesthesia. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Service Desk at 434.924.5334. 

Construction Impact: MRI Expansion Project 

Saturday, Jan. 18 | 7a.m.-3 p.m. | As part of the MRI Expansion Project in University Hospital, an MRI machine is being delivered which will cause a section of sidewalk and one lane of Crispell Drive to be closed. Flaggers will direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Crispell Drive during the delivery. Signage will be installed the week of Jan. 13 to indicate which parking spaces will be temporarily unavailable during the work. 

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. 

STAFF NOTICE 
ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® 
Site Visit 

Your organization has applied to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for the prestigious Magnet designation. The Magnet Recognition Program® provides the highest credential a healthcare organization can achieve. It indicates that these organizations have met the most stringent, evidence-based standards of nursing excellence in patient care delivery. 

You have an opportunity and are encouraged to participate in the evaluation process. A team of Magnet Appraisers will be coming to your hospital on February 24-27, 2025, for a site visit.  

• Comments may be emailed or mailed to the Magnet Program Office prior to the site visit. Your comments are confidential and never shared with anyone in your organization. 
• You may request that your comments remain anonymous, and we will redact your identity, ensuring your privacy in providing honest feedback. 
• There will also be time for staff to speak with the appraisers. A specific time, date, and location of the meeting room will be provided by your organization. 
• Your comments must be received by February 14, 2025. 

Send comments to: 
Noriko Gates 
American Nurses Credentialing Center 
Magnet Recognition Program Office 
8515 Georgia Ave., Suite 400 
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3492 

Email Comments to: magnet@ana.org   

Your organization has submitted written documentation for the appraisal team to review. The information is available for review at www.uvahealthumcmagnet.com. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks Series  

Sessions through Thursday, Jan. 30 | 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. 

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

Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series | Connective Tissue Disorders: An Overview, Genetic Testing, and a Patient’s Perspective 

Wednesday, Jan. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Blue Ridge Shenandoah Room 4050 and Webex | This panel will provide an overview of connective tissue disorders, discuss the role of genetic testing in diagnosing, and outline available resources for patients with these disorders. The multi-disciplinary and collaborative panel includes Randy Ramcharitar, MD, Heritable Aneurysm and Arteriopathy Program Coordinator; Stacy Hosenfeld, AG-ACNP; Matthew Thomas, ScM, GC; and Melissa Riley, who will provide a patient's perspective on navigating healthcare with Marfan syndrome. Space limited. To reserve a spot, contact Bernie Ammons. 

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 

UVA Health Arts Program Collaborates With Local Students 

Jan. 20-Nov. 2025 | University Hospital lobby | The UVA Health and Albemarle County Public Schools art programs are collaborating on our first-ever student art show. The shows will rotate every ten weeks through November and will represent a range of framed art from K-12 students. This collaboration allows us to continue to merge our work at UVA Health with our local community. 

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 

Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 

Appreciation 

‘A Delightful Soul’ 

A UVA Health patient is hitting all the right notes — spreading cheer to team members and other patients and their families along the way. Rev. Kyle Clements of Orange County, Virginia first came to University Medical Center for treatment of a leg fracture from a motorcycle crash. Doctors then discovered he also had lymphoma.  

Now, Clements volunteers as a pianist at the hospital and at UVA Cancer Center, even as he and his wife, also a cancer patient, continue their treatments. 

LaDelle Gay of UVA Health Volunteer Services calls Clements “a delightful soul.” 

“It’s just part of my purpose,” says the reverend. Learn on UVA Today how Clements scored the melodic role, including a video showcasing his talent in our hospital lobby. 

Friday, Jan. 10

2025 Health System New Year Celebration Events 

This year, we will celebrate the start of 2025 with special New Year Celebration events including meals and other fun activities over the next week to honor the remarkable contributions of our 18,000-strong team. We hope you will join us to connect, recharge, and begin this year with renewed energy and purpose. 

• 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 

Ambulatory 

Primary Care: Patients Can Submit E-Visits Starting Jan. 14 

Nearly one year ago, E-Visits launched in adult primary care as a way for busy providers to bill for complex MyChart message responses. E-Visits were not patient discoverable when they launched last March. As providers and clinical teams now have had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the E-Visit workflow, E-Visits will become patient discoverable starting Jan. 14, providing an additional channel for patient access. For more information, please see the following resources: 

• Provider FAQ 
• Nurses and Clinical Team Member FAQ 
• E-Visits User Guide on the Epic Learning Library 

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 were 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). 

Patient Care 

UVA Health Launches Mobile Care Unit 

To make it easier for patients who have trouble accessing traditional healthcare facilities to receive the care they need, UVA Health has launched a mobile care unit to bring care to communities that have challenges accessing care. 

“A key goal in our strategic plan is to cultivate healthy communities and a sense of belonging for all,” says K. Craig Kent, MD, Chief Executive Officer of UVA Health and Executive Vice President for Health Affairs at UVA. “Our new mobile care unit will help us do just that by bringing care directly to patients in need and close to their homes.” Read more on Connect. 

Operations 

Action Required for Managers and All Team Members: Red Book Updated for 2025 

Emergency Management recently updated the Red Book, which contains emergency contact information and basic response procedures for team members to use during emergency events. Managers or designees should make sure their unit’s Red Book is updated by looking at the date on each page, not just the cover page. All pages should say January 2025 in the footnote. Any unit-specific information should be transferred over to the new copy. You can access the updated Red Book on the intranet or on the Red Book desktop icon. All team members are required to be familiar with the Red Book for their area, including location, contents, layout, and when it is to be used. Academic buildings such as McKim Hall, Pinn Hall, McLeod Hall, MR buildings, and Health Sciences Library follow the academic Emergency Procedures Guide which can be found here. 

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, Jan. 14 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services, as well as all Epic users, Access/Patient Access Team, and Optime/Anesthesia. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Service Desk at 434.924.5334. 

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. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• The unveiling of UVA Health’s mobile care unit is featured locally, in Richmond, and on TV stations nationally, with comments from Dr. Craig Kent, CEO Wendy Horton, and Population Health Administrator Novella Thompson. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Eunice Odiase participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing transnasal endoscopy for kids. 
• Dr. James Stone talks with The Washington Post about the health effects for soldiers of repeated blast exposures.  
• Chief Strategy Officer Jason Lineen and Chief Clinical Officer Becky Compton are both featured on the Becker’s Hospital Review podcast. 
• Dr. Neeral Shah is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing Dry January. 
• Dr. Bobby Chhabra is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing UVA Health Orthopedics being named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 100 great orthopedics programs. 

Research 

• Dr. Jim Tucker, Dr. Jennifer Payne, Dr. Bruce Greyson, Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova, and Dr. Philip Cozzolino talk with The New York Times about the research of the Division of Perceptual Studies. 
• Dr. Melissa Little is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing her findings that U.S. soldiers are 10 times more likely to use nicotine pouches. 
• Research led by Dr. Amit Patel and Dr. Frederick Epstein showing that a simple MRI scan could better identify patients at risk for heart conditions is featured in Chicago and on Yahoo. 
• Dr. Marc Breton is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new research partnership between the UVA Center for Diabetes Care and Tandem Diabetes Care. 
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with Medscape about treating muscle mass loss in patients taking weight loss medications. 

Community 

• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured locally, on Washington, D.C., news outlets, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning during winter. 

Education 

• Administrative Fellow Hannah Hawthorne talks with the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy podcast about the UVA Health administrative fellowship. 

Happenings 

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. 

Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series | Connective Tissue Disorders: An Overview, Genetic Testing, and a Patient’s Perspective 

Wednesday, Jan. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Blue Ridge Shenandoah Room 4050 and Webex | This panel will provide an overview of connective tissue disorders, discuss the role of genetic testing in diagnosing, and outline available resources for patients with these disorders. The multi-disciplinary and collaborative panel includes Randy Ramcharitar, MD, Heritable Aneurysm and Arteriopathy Program Coordinator; Stacy Hosenfeld, AG-ACNP; Matthew Thomas, ScM, GC; and Melissa Riley, who will provide a patient's perspective on navigating healthcare with Marfan syndrome. Space limited. To reserve a spot, contact Bernie Ammons. 

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!    

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. 

Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky | The Art of Aleona Isakova 

Jan. 16-March 12 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky.” Pictured: Inspired by African Ankara fabric Giclee with gold, hand-painted. Stop by and check it out! 

Martin Luther King Jr. Week Events and Resources 

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Jan. 20 — and the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has declared "A Call for Health Equity Is a Call for Humanity" as our theme for that week. The office has provided a list of self-reflection resources on Connect for the day and year-round, and is promoting the following events planned the rest of that week to help commemorate the legacy of the civil rights icon:  

• National Day of Racial Healing Luncheon featuring the theme, "Racial Healing: The Heart of Racial Equity" | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | noon-2 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement.  
• DEI Book of the Month Signing: Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 2-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public | Guest Author Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   
• Introduction to Coming to The Table | Wednesday, Jan. 22 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE.  
• 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., University of Virginia Health System Awards | Thursday, Jan. 23 | 5-8 p.m. | The Rotunda | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing. 
• Introduction to Transforming Community Spaces Through Equitable Collaboration| Friday, Jan. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 

Team Member Art Day 

Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

Custom Pocket Folders From UVA Print 

UVA Print can make your next project or presentation shine with professional, high quality pocket folders. Whether you need 500, 1,000, or larger quantities, they've got you covered with customizable options tailored to your needs. Pocket folders are perfect for:  

• Distributing patient information in a polished format.  
• Organizing documents for conferences or events.  
• Enhancing your marketing materials with branded packaging.  

Ordering is simple. Contact UVA Print to get started or learn more about how they can support your projects. Visit UVA Print to place an order. 

Appreciation 

‘Kind, Patient, and Honest’ | 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:     

• “My experience was one of the best medical experiences I have ever had. Dr. Russell Witt, Dr. Nadia Lunardi, and my team of nurses (Ann, Morgan, Kim, Brittany, and Tashonda) were amazing. I am very grateful for their treating me like a person and not just a patient. They made me feel comfortable and safe.”  
• “I would like to recognize Anne Hedelt who has been my care provider for the last few years. She has been excellent, and she will be missed as she is retiring. I have been privileged to have been taken care of by her. I owe her a debt of gratitude. UVA Health is losing a great asset and person.” 
• “Dr. Johnson was exactly what I needed during such an emotionally challenging visit. She was kind, patient, and honest. Although it was not a diagnosis I wanted to receive, she delivered the message with the tender kindness I wanted, but the honesty of what to expect that I needed.” 
• “The nurses and doctors went above and beyond, especially in the PICU [Pediatric Intensive Care Unit]. They worked so well together and were so kind and respectful to us and each other. We always felt like our son was in the best hands while there. Everyone was wonderful, but a few that stuck out were Nikhil, Julie, Loren, Francesca, and Makayla. All of them were wonderful. So many nurses went above and beyond to sit down with us and explain everything and were so accommodating.”  

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

Wednesday, Jan. 8

Action Required for Managers and All Team Members: Red Book Updated for 2025  

Emergency Management recently updated the Red Book, which contains emergency contact information and basic response procedures for team members to use during emergency events. Managers or designees should make sure their unit’s Red Book is updated by looking at the date on each page, not just the cover page. All pages should say January 2025 in the footnote. Any unit-specific information should be transferred over to the new copy. You can access the updated Red Book on the intranet or on the Red Book desktop icon. All team members are required to be familiar with the Red Book for their area, including location, contents, layout, and when it is to be used. Academic buildings such as McKim Hall, Pinn Hall, McLeod Hall, MR buildings, and Health Sciences Library follow the academic Emergency Procedures Guide which can be found here. 

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 were 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 Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Jan. 11-19, reopens Monday, Jan. 20 | 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.  

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 Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis Guideline
• New Adult Parenteral Nutrition and Lipid Protocol Order
• New Intrahospital Transport of the Critically-ill Patient Guideline, and many more

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

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 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Best Place to Work: New Year, New Gym 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, talks about the newly opened UVA Health Team Member Gym. Read more. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Thursday, Jan. 9 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. Note: Because of scheduling conflicts with the room, the January and February dates are not on Wednesdays. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

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 

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. 

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

• Information session | Tuesday, Jan. 14 | noon-12:30 p.m. | virtual | Sign up 

Appreciation 

Two UVA Health Community Medical Centers Earn Top Rankings in U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care   

UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center and UVA Health Prince William Medical Center have earned top acknowledgments in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. Prince William Medical Center received the highest possible ranking of “High Performing Hospitals.” Culpeper Medical Center and Prince William Medical Center were both awarded the prestigious designation of “Maternity Care Access,” highlighting the medical centers’ commitment to providing superior care for communities with limited access to maternity services. 

Prince William Medical Center delivered 1,932 babies in 2024 and admitted 238 babies for care in the Level III NICU. The unit continues to grow with the addition of two new obstetrics and gynecology providers this month.   

Culpeper Medical Center set a new milestone in 2023 delivering more than 600 babies and delivered 624 babies in 2024. It continues to expand its clinic services to support expecting mothers and babies with a new OBGYN provider and UVA Health Children's Pediatrics Dominion which will open Jan. 23. 

This is truly a group effort as many team members from different teams care for our patients in many ways. These multidisciplinary teams include providers who care for babies in the NICU, nursing team members, laboratory team members, ancillary support staff in environmental services, food and nutrition team members from Morrison, cultural ambassadors, and patient navigators.  

Congratulations to all team members whose contributions made this recognition possible. Read more on Connect. 

Monday, Jan. 6

Winter Weather Safety 

Get the latest team member information from Emergency Management about the current snow event on Weather Awareness Updates. Because of the inclement weather, we are now in modified operations. Please do everything you can do to stay safe. Learn more about preparedness and other resources on Connect.        

• 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.  
• 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.   

UVA Cancer Center Honored Among Nation’s Best 

Becker’s Hospital Review has named UVA Cancer Center to its 2024 list of 100 hospitals and health systems with great oncology programs. 

“These institutions have garnered national acclaim for advancing cancer care via their cutting-edge clinical trials and life-changing research,” the national healthcare publication’s editors write in the list’s introduction. “The list features cancer centers with globally renowned experts, innovative clinical trials, and intensive safety protocols.” 

Becker’s describes UVA Cancer Center, which serves more than 3.2 million people across 87 counties in Virginia and West Virginia in addition to people throughout the region and nation, as “a leader in cancer care, research, and community outreach.” Read more on Connect. 

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 

Action Required for Managers and All Team Members: Red Book Updated for 2025  

Emergency Management recently updated the Red Book, which contains emergency contact information and basic response procedures for team members to use during emergency events. Managers or designees should make sure their unit’s Red Book is updated by looking at the date on each page, not just the cover page. All pages should say January 2025 in the footnote. Any unit-specific information should be transferred over to the new copy. You can access the updated Red Book on the intranet or on the Red Book desktop icon. All team members are required to be familiar with the Red Book for their area, including location, contents, layout, and when it is to be used. Academic buildings such as McKim Hall, Pinn Hall, McLeod Hall, MR buildings, and Health Sciences Library follow the academic Emergency Procedures Guide which can be found here. 

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 Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis Guideline  
• New Adult Parenteral Nutrition and Lipid Protocol Order   
• New Intrahospital Transport of the Critically-ill Patient Guideline, and many more  

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Jan. 11-19, reopens Monday, Jan. 20 | 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. 

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. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Thursday, Jan. 9 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. Note: Because of scheduling conflicts with the room, the January and February dates are not on Wednesdays. See monthly dates. 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures 

The team at 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 

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. 

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:               

• 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 

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 

Martin Luther King Jr. Week Events and Resources 

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Jan. 20 — and the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has declared "A Call for Health Equity Is a Call for Humanity" as our theme for that week. The office has provided a list of self-reflection resources on Connect for the day and year-round, and is promoting the following events planned the rest of that week to help commemorate the legacy of the civil rights icon: 

• National Day of Racial Healing Luncheon featuring the theme, "Racial Healing: The Heart of Racial Equity" | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | noon-2 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement. 
• DEI Book of the Month Signing: Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being | Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 2-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center | Free and open to the public | Guest Author Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  
• Introduction to Coming to The Table | Wednesday, Jan. 22 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 
• 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., University of Virginia Health System Awards | Thursday, Jan. 23 | 5-8 p.m. | The Rotunda | Free and open to the public; Registration Required | Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing. 
• Introduction to Transforming Community Spaces Through Equitable Collaboration| Friday, Jan. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual; Registration Required | UVA and UVA Health team members are invited to join. Sponsored by UVA Health ODCE. 

Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 

Appreciation 

‘The Best Pediatric Care You Can Find!’ 

In July 2024, UVA Health created a new Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine. Led by Chief of the Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Medical Director Elisabeth A. Rogers, MD — the dedicated Pediatrics Emergency Department (ED) reports up through UVA Health Children’s structure and welcomes anyone under age 21. 

“We have the equipment, the knowledge, the training, and the resources to take care of all of it,” says Nurse Manager Alex Kasmere, BSN, RN, CPEN, TCRN, EMTP. “We have 12 beds and are averaging 55 patients a day." 

Kasmere began his career as a paramedic and later moved into nursing, focusing on pediatric emergency medicine. He's been named by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) as a 2025 Emerging Professional Liaison — a position on ENA’s board where he will provide professional perspectives and key insights during board meetings and other in-person events for a one-year term. Read more on Connect. 

Friday, Jan. 3

UVA Health Orthopedics Earns National Honor for Quality Care, Research 

UVA Health Orthopedics has been named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2024 list of 100 hospitals and health systems with great orthopedic programs. 

“These programs and institutes are devoted to delivering comprehensive, compassionate care for patients experiencing musculoskeletal conditions and injuries,” the national healthcare publication’s editors wrote in their introduction to the list. “Treating thousands of patients annually, the expert providers staffing these programs also run cutting edge clinical trials and employ the latest innovations in orthopedic technology.” 

Becker’s described UVA Health Orthopedics as “a leader in both clinical care and musculoskeletal research, recognized for its surgical innovations and research contributions.” Read more on Connect. 

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

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 Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis Guideline 
• New Adult Parenteral Nutrition and Lipid Protocol Order  
• New Intrahospital Transport of the Critically-ill Patient Guideline, and many more 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Action Required for Managers and All Team Members: Red Book Updated for 2025 

Emergency Management recently updated the Red Book, which contains emergency contact information and basic response procedures for team members to use during emergency events. Managers or designees should make sure their unit’s Red Book is updated by looking at the date on each page, not just the cover page. All pages should say January 2025 in the footnote. Any unit-specific information should be transferred over to the new copy. You can access the updated Red Book on the intranet or on the Red Book desktop icon. All team members are required to be familiar with the Red Book for their area, including location, contents, layout, and when it is to be used. Academic buildings such as McKim Hall, Pinn Hall, McLeod Hall, MR buildings, and Health Sciences Library follow the academic Emergency Procedures Guide which can be found here. 

Central Clinical Orientation   

Monday, Jan. 6 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Virtual AM and Sandridge Auditorium PM | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Because of the potential for inclement weather, orientation will be virtual for the AM session. More information to follow. Please visit the new Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for the most up-to-date orientation information, including what to do in case of inclement weather. NPDS has moved! Classes that are normally at Grove Street will transition to the Northridge facility unless otherwise indicated. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Jan. 11-19, reopens Monday, Jan. 20 | 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. 

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. 

UVA Health in the News

Top Story

• CEO Wendy Horton is featured on the Becker’s Hospital Review podcast discussing 2024’s successes at UVA Health University Medical Center along with plans for 2025. 

Patient Care

• Dr. Ann Kellams is featured on CNN and Yahoo discussing breastfeeding challenges. 
• Dr. Craig Kent and UPG’s Executive Director of People Operations Lisa Hudnall and Chief of Practice Innovation Lacy Heiberger were quoted in Becker’s Hospital Review discussing their plans for 2025.  
• Dr. Neeral Shah is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing his SCHEV Outstanding Faculty Award. 
• Santa’s visit to UVA Health Children’s is covered locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 
• Dr. Claudia Allen and Dr. Joseph Tan are featured locally, in Washington, D.C., across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing how to cope with family drama around the holidays. 

Research

• Dr. Kim Penberthy’s article for The Conversation on supporting grieving loved ones at the holidays continues to receive strong pickup nationally, including U.S. News & World Report. 
• Dr. Patrick Jackson talks with NBC29 — and is featured across Virginia and on TV stations nationally — discussing bird flu. 
• Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton talks with ConsultantLive and HCPLive about potential nonhormonal treatments for menopause. 
• Valentina Baljak, senior data scientist, talks with Healthcare IT News about how UVA Health is using AI tools. 
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with Medscape about whether patients with thyroid issues should take weight loss medications. 

Community

• UVA Cancer Center Associate Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Marquita Taylor speaks with NBC29 — and is featured across Virginia and on TV stations nationally — discussing her work to reduce disparities for patients. 

Education

• Dr. George Hoke and Dr. Ben Robinson (a University Medical Center resident) talk with Virginia Business about hospitalists. 

Leadership

University Medical Center CEO Blog | A Year in Review: 2024 Edition 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares some of the biggest University Medical Center moments and photos from 2024. Read more. 

Human Resources

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor  

Thursday, Jan. 9 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. Note: Due to scheduling conflicts with the room, the January and February dates are not on Wednesdays. See monthly dates.    

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: 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. 

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. 

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. 

Team Member Art Day 

Thursday, Jan. 23 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

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. 

Custom Pocket Folders From UVA Print 

UVA Print can make your next project or presentation shine with professional, high quality pocket folders. Whether you need 500, 1,000, or larger quantities, they've got you covered with customizable options tailored to your needs. Pocket folders are perfect for: 

• Distributing patient information in a polished format. 
• Organizing documents for conferences or events. 
• Enhancing your marketing materials with branded packaging. 

Ordering is simple. Contact UVA Print to get started or learn more about how they can support your projects. Visit UVA Print to place an order. 

Appreciation

‘World-Class Awesome’ | 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 mention the excellence in nursing and physician care during my stay, especially by Barbara Holloway. Her experience as a caring and professional nurse is exceptional. I felt very at ease and confident in the attention I received. She offers great value for the organization and the patients she serves.”  
• “Becky Compton is world-class awesome — she is warm-hearted, thorough, and a constant professional. All my medical needs were addressed, and I left the clinic feeling better than when I arrived. The entire staff was wonderful during my appointment, and it was clear that they respect my provider as much as I do.” 
• “Dr. Gehrig showed the utmost care and concern for my well-being and addressed all my issues fully. He gave me his cell number for ease and effectiveness in discussing my blood pressure readings. Toward the end of the visit, when he asked one more time if I had any questions, I said I had one. Immediately — and this was observed by both my wife and me — Dr. Gehrig sat down again in a chair and gave me full and undivided attention. He never rushed me. At my age, I tend to be anxious about cardiac issues and it feels so good to have my condition explained completely. Thanks, Dr. Gehrig.” 
• “Dr. Millard is an angel. She cares and is committed with her chosen profession. Life gets easier with her care!” 

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

Archive | UVA Health Update

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