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

If you missed the latest town hall (or want to re-watch), here's your chance to catch up! Visit Connect to find time-code stamps for agenda topics and the embedded video for your convenience. The meeting included opening remarks from K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and discussions about strategic plan progress and UVA Health Community Health integration. Watch the video on Connect.

Junior Volunteers Inspire Hope for Future of UVA Health

In the latest installment of our Hope at Work series, meet teenagers who are already supporting our strategic plan goal of strengthening our foundation and initiative of superior patient outcomes.

Ambulatory

Better Safe Than Sorry: When to Prevent Automated Results Release to Patients in MyChart

• If you see a result you feel should be discussed with a patient before it's available in MyChart, it's always best practice to stop its automated release.
• Do not assume you can reach your patient before the result is released automatically.
• Exercising caution in these cases may provide a better patient experience, facilitate stronger patient-provider partnerships, and alleviate provider stress from trying to reach patients before the auto-release.
• To prevent automated release of results, go to the Patient Sharing menu in Chart Review and select “Prevent Scheduled Release.” Once you’ve connected with the patient, you will need to manually release the result via the Patient Sharing menu.

Operations

Vacation Power Down Checklist

If you’re not on-site next week, UVA Sustainability asks you to keep these things in mind:

• Completely shut down your lights, computers, laptops, monitors, TVs, copy machines, and other equipment.
• Prevent “vampire energy” loss by unplugging power strips, printers, fans, coffee makers, microwaves, and other small appliances.

Thank you for helping us become more sustainable. Questions? Email sustainability@virginia.edu.

Upcoming Transportation and Parking Modifications

On Tuesday, July 4:

• University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate July 4.
• Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m.-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) July 4.

University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Wednesday, July 5.

Annual Garage Maintenance Will Impact Team Member Parking Three Weekends in July

Parking options for team members and patients will be modified during coming weekends as follows:

• 8 p.m. Friday, July 7, to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 9 │ Lee Street Garage closed. Patients will be directed to park in the 11th Street Garage, and team members must park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive.
• 8 p.m. Friday, July 14, to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 16 │ 11th Street Garage closed. Patients will be directed to park in the Lee Street Garage, and team members must park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive.
• 8 p.m. Friday, July 21, to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 23 │ South Garage on Crispell Drive closed. Team members must park in the 11th Street Garage.

Happenings

Be a Hero: Donate Blood in July

Quayle Learning Center | Battle Building, first floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. Swag Alert: Donate during July and receive a Red Cross dry bag. Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

• Thursday, July 6 | 2:30- 6:30 p.m.
• Monday, July 24 | 1-6 p.m.

Freedom House Ambulance: The First Responders

Saturday, July 8 | 7-9 p.m. | Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. | Multi-Emmy Award winning producer and director Annette Bank’s documentary traces the rise and fall of Freedom House Ambulance, an EMT service made up of Black men and women — pioneers in pre-hospital medicine. Indie Short Film Series screening followed by discussion. Sponsors include UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and UVA Arts.

Sharing Our Strength: Prostate Cancer Support Group

Tuesday, July 11, then first Tuesday of every month | Virtual | UVA Health Cancer Care is offering a virtual prostate cancer support group, led by UVA Health oncology social workers, to create a safe environment in which patients support one another. To register, contact Wanda Shreve at wsw3a@virginia.edu and provide your email address to receive the event link.

Informational Webinar: UVA Medical Center Administrative Fellowships

Thursday, July 13 | 9-10 a.m. | Learn more about UVA Health’s 2024-26 fellowship program by registering for a webinar. Apply to the fellowship by Monday, July 31. Questions? Email adminfellow@virginia.edu.

Nominations Open: Advanced Practice Provider Recognition Awards

Deadline: Saturday, July 15  | UVA Health has nearly 600 advanced practice providers (APPs) such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, certified nurse midwives, audiologists, clinical nurse specialists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and genetic counselors. Consider nominating an APP colleague for:

• Excellence in Scholarship Award
• Exceptional Advanced Practice Provider Award
• Excellence in Leadership Award
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award
• Outstanding Educator Award
• Interprofessional Collaboration Award

Ceremony set for Friday, Sept. 29, in Pinn Hall.

Appreciation

"Feeee-nom-i-nuhlll" | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

To provide the best possible service and care for our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their recent healthcare experience. Below is a small selection of recent feedback praising our outstanding team members:

• “Dr. Good should be named Dr. Great!! (Corny, I know). He was incredible! Feeee-nom-i-nuhlll! He went above and beyond everything in his power to help me in every way possible. The world needs many, many, more Dr. Goods! Thank you so very much for everything. I received a list of facilities from the social worker and I'm on my way to better health. Thank you again for such incredible care! Can't say enough about you all!”
• “Everyone who works in the ER is absolutely fantastic. I got exceptional care and compassion and I'm very happy with the medical team!”
• “Dr. Kappa is amazing! He took the time to talk directly to our child about school, his interests, and books they are reading to make a personal connection.”
• “I would reward Joyce and Danielle for their caring, niceness, and professionalism. Ms. McMoon is wonderful! Lisa Field always found professionals for me quickly.”
• “Dr. Hong was recommended to me by two patients. He has a great deal of knowledge about my diagnosis. I was so happy after my first visit to finally find a doctor that actually knows and understands my condition, that I was crying in gratitude that I have such a wonderful doctor for my very rare condition. I am very pleased with Dr. Hong's care that I feel it’s worth the six hour drive from Harlan, Kentucky!”
• “I'm just at the beginning of a long road back to health. Dr. Dillion and his team give me the courage and grit to fight on!"
• “My doctor is awesome! I was a really bad alcoholic and she’s helping me get through. I’ve been sober for a year and two months! I appreciate her and Radiology so much, and I hope they get recognized for this because I was knocking on death’s door and she saved me! I will be forever grateful, Dr. Dairymple, I can't thank you enough!

Thanks to all our team members for providing compassionate and safe care!

Previous Updates

Wednesday, June 28

UVA Health Pride Celebration

Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), Roof Garden; Rain location: Mill Room, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | All team members and students welcome. Note: Please remember to wear a mask on the elevators when accessing the rooftop. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement; and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

• Download: UVA Health Pride Month Virtual Background | UVA Health is committed to providing exceptional care and support to all individuals. The Pride design element used with our logo symbolizes our commitment to creating an inclusive environment that promotes the overall well-being of our LGBTQ+ patients and team members. During Pride Month, UVA Health is offering a virtual background featuring this symbol for use during Zoom or WebEx meetings. Download from Connect and show your Pride!

Ambulatory

Better Safe Than Sorry: When to Prevent Automated Results Release to Patients in MyChart

• If you see a result that you feel should be discussed with a patient before it is available in MyChart, it is always best practice to stop its automated release.
• Do not assume that you can reach your patient before the result is automatically released.
• Exercising caution in these cases may provide a better patient experience, facilitate stronger patient-provider partnerships, and alleviate provider stress from trying to reach patients before the auto-release.
• To prevent automated release of results, go to the Patient Sharing menu in Chart Review and select “Prevent Scheduled Release.” Once you’ve connected with the patient, you will need to manually release the result via the Patient Sharing menu.

Attention Providers: New and Improved Video Visits Coming July 13

Effective Thursday, July 13, a new and improved video visit platform will launch across all UVA Health Ambulatory entities. Epic’s integrated Video Client will replace Zoom to deliver an enhanced video visit experience for patients and providers alike. This change is in direct response to the 2023 UVA Health Video Visit Satisfaction Survey and provider feedback that video visits are difficult for patients to navigate.

What this change means for providers:

• Provider workflows are largely unchanged from the current process.
• Providers can send video visit links directly to patients by text.
• Expect to spend less time trouble-shooting technical issues.
• Epic-integrated features will work for all patients, even those without MyChart.
• Healthcare-centric language replaces office-centric language in the virtual waiting room.

The Epic Video Client will provide a more streamlined and consistent patient experience that is web-based, device-agnostic, and requires fewer clicks. Watch this space for more information in the coming weeks!

Operations

Operational Update: Masking Protocols

To further ease our COVID-19 operational protocols and return to more normalized operations, University Medical Center will move to mask optional throughout most of the main hospital, effective June 29 at 7 a.m., including in our lobby, hallways, Emergency Department, and public spaces. Masking will continue to be required in areas where we have high concentrations of high-risk patients and where COVID-19 testing on admission is still being practiced. For more information, please refer to the June 27 email or visit Connect.

Coming Soon: Same-Day Clinic Aims to Boost Patient Access, Reduce Readmissions

UVA Health’s newest Ambulatory clinic has a unique mission: to provide same-day care to patients with minor acute illness and/or injury. Slated to open July 11 in the former Covid clinic location at 1222 JPA, the Same-Day Clinic represents an innovative approach to increasing patient access while reducing hospital readmissions. The clinic will initially support patients referred from the Emergency Department, Continuum Home Health, and Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) for follow up visits and/or same-day acute care needs (such as infusions, wound care, etc.). Later this summer, the clinic will expand services to primary care patients seeking same-day appointments and patients referred by the in-home monitoring (IHM) program operated by Population Health. The Same-Day Clinic is the first of its kind at UVA Health and directly supports the One Future Together | Health and Hope for All Strategic Plan initiatives to radically improve patient access and deliver superior patient care.

Construction: Additional Closure on Lane Road

Thursday, June 29 | 5-9 p.m. | Much of Lane Road is already closed for the steam piping replacement project. During this time, an additional section of Lane Road (between Crispell Drive and the University Hospital loading dock) will be closed for crane activity. Traffic control personnel will be on-site. Questions? Contact Scott Guynes, Senior Construction Administration Manager, at sg2tf@virginia.edu.

UVA School of Nursing Guarantees Alumni Admission Across MSN, DNP Programs

Beginning in summer 2023, the School of Nursing will offer guaranteed admission to its alumni who are interested in attending graduate school and earning an MSN, post-master's specialty certificate, and/or a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Learn more on Connect.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog | Innovation in Radiology and Medical Imaging: Virtual Cockpit Deployed for CT/MRI

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses the new syngo Virtual Cockpit in Radiology as one way we're improving patient outcomes while addressing staffing shortages head-on. Read more.

Human Resources

Update: Commuter Parking Payroll Reimbursement

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

Engagement Survey Action Planning Deadline

To all of our leaders, please be aware that action plans around the latest results of our engagement survey are due within the Press Ganey tool by June 30. For on-demand tools and resources, visit our engagement survey website.

Happenings

2023 Team Member Art Exhibit

Through Wednesday, July 5 | University Hospital lobby | A huge success! Don't miss the remarkable talents of 36 of your peers who submitted 140+ pieces.

Farmer’s Market

Thursdays, through Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 11th Street Garage | Food trucks and farmers with fresh vegetables will be on site.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall, Ground Floor, Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers: get a new or updated headshot taken in 10 minutes or less on dates listed below. No appointment needed. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Thursday, June 29 | noon-3 p.m.
• Friday, July 7 | 9 a.m.-noon
• Tuesday, July 11 | 8-11 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 19 | 1-4 p.m.
• Tuesday, July 25 | 7-10 a.m.

Schwartz Center Rounds: Healing Without a Cure

Friday, June 30 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall Auditorium | Healthcare providers reflect on and share how they’re affected by their work. Program aims to foster and support empathy, collaboration, and compassion for self and others. Panelists: Michael Keng, MD, Elayne Peloquin, Ann Marie Smith, and Chaplain Joncey Wagoner. Target audience: Physicians, nurses, advanced practice, chaplains, social workers — but everyone is invited. Grab-and-go lunch provided for the first 50 people to arrive. Continuing education available.

Sixth Annual Mid-Atlantic Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium

July 6-7 | North Fork Research Park, Town Center Four and Virtual | Industry, government, and academia experts discuss research in biofabrication and cell manufacturing, regulatory considerations for biomanufactured tissues and organs, and clinical implementation of regenerative medicine products. Hosted by UVA Center for Advanced Biomanufacturing. Learn more and register.

Freedom House Ambulance: The First Responders

Saturday, July 8 | 7-9 p.m. | Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. | Multi-Emmy Award winning producer and director Annette Bank’s documentary traces the rise and fall of Freedom House Ambulance, an EMT service made up of Black men and women — pioneers in pre-hospital medicine. Indie Short Film Series screening followed by discussion. Sponsors include UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and UVA Arts.

Appreciation

Video Series | Research in Motion

Have you been keeping up with the weekly video series Research in Motion? In it, researchers are asked three questions: What do you do? What do you love about your research? How will it impact human health? If you haven’t seen the latest, here they are:

• Jonathan Lindner, MD | “We’re now creating the next generation of ultrasound contrast agents that are smart ... can home in on disease so we can diagnose it earlier.”
• Jennifer L. Payne, MD (pictured) | “I research postpartum depression and how to manage psychiatric disorders during pregnancy and during the postpartum time period.”
• R. Ariel Gomez, MD | “I try to understand how cells know who they are, and this is very relevant for understanding disease …”
• Kevin Pelphrey, PhD | “We’re taking a precision medicine approach to our research....”
• Zhiyi Zuo, MD, PhD | “I have two research focuses. The first one is on stroke. … And then the second focus we have is post-op cognitive dysfunction.”

Thank you to these researchers — and all of our colleagues who advance medical knowledge — for conducting research that shapes the medicine we deliver tomorrow, and how we deliver it.

Monday, June 26

Tomorrow: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, June 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream and Sandridge Auditorium (In-person attendance is encouraged.) | Our strategic plan gives us a solid foundation as we continue our momentum as One Future Together: Health and Hope for All. Join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more about the top priorities and latest developments for our organization. Submit your questions to yourtownhall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall.

The agenda is focused on our Strategic Plan progress, including topics related to:

• Creating a Best Place to Work
• One UVA Health Team | UVA Community Health Integration
• Patient-Centered Care and Provider Collaboration
• and more!

Operations

Emergency Response Teams Name Changes

Effective June 27, there will be name changes to two important emergency response teams:

• Pediatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) will be referred to as Pediatric MET.
• PE Response Team will be referred to as PERT (PE Response Team).

The changes are occurring because of the widespread use of the name “PERT” for “PE Response Team.” These teams still will be reached via the Emergency Operator at 924.2012 or 4.2012. Team services will not be altered.

Fire Pump Testing

Annual fire pump testing is scheduled for June 28. Do not be alarmed by the extended presence of Charlottesville Fire Department trucks parked outside the hospital. This is done as a precautionary measure during fire pump testing.

Human Resources

Deadline Soon: Self-Evaluations

We are a few days from the June 30 due date for FY23 manager evaluations. Managers should hold their 1:1s and complete the acknowledgement step by this date. Team members should complete their acknowledgement step by July 14. Resources and additional details about the FY23 performance process can be found on the UVA Health Performance website.

Engagement Survey Action Planning Deadline

To all of our leaders, please be aware that action plans around the latest results of our engagement survey are due within the Press Ganey tool by June 30. For on-demand tools and resources, visit our engagement survey website.

Happenings

Download: UVA Health Pride Month Virtual Background

UVA Health is committed to providing exceptional care and support to all individuals. The Pride design element used with our logo symbolizes our commitment to creating an inclusive environment that promotes the overall well-being of our LGBTQ+ patients and team members. During Pride Month, UVA Health is offering a virtual background featuring this symbol for use during Zoom or WebEx meetings. Download from Connect and show your Pride!

Safe Zone Training

Wednesday, June 28 | 9 a.m.-noon | MR5 Building 2005 | Introductory LGBTQ/Ally training workshop presented by UVA School of Medicine intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall, Ground Floor, Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers: get a new or updated headshot taken in 10 minutes or less on dates listed below. No appointment needed. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Thursday, June 29 | noon-3 p.m.
• Friday, July 7 | 9 a.m.-noon
• Tuesday, July 11 | 8-11 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 19 | 1-4 p.m.
• Tuesday, July 25 | 7-10 a.m.

FEAP: Fostering Diversity and Inclusion

eM Life, offered free through Hoos Well to UVA employees and their spouses in the UVA and UPG Health Plans, provides live and on-demand mindfulness training courses. Explore this series of five, 10-minute sessions aimed at helping you improve self-awareness, listening skills, and much more. Get started.

Appreciation

Ducks in a Row

Insurance company Aflac and UVA basketball legend Dawn Staley recently brought some joy to UVA Health Children’s when they presented My Special Aflac Ducks to patients. The My Special Aflac Duck is an award-winning social robot designed for children with cancer and sickle cell disease to help them prepare for medical procedures, communicate their feelings, practice distraction techniques and more. Coach Staley surprised the children with My Special Aflac Ducks for a fun-filled day the patients won’t forget.

“When kids are going through treatment, such as pediatric cancers or blood disorders, the best thing we can do is try to comfort them,” President of Aflac of U.S. Virgil Miller said. “This duck displays emotions, they can come alive and really make the children feel safe and secure during the most terrible time in their lives.”

“We’re here because we hope to bring smiles on their faces,” Staley said.

Friday, June 23

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, June 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream and Sandridge Auditorium (In-person attendance is encouraged.) | Our strategic plan gives us a solid foundation as we continue our momentum as One Future Together: Health and Hope for All. Join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more about the top priorities and latest developments for our organization. Submit your questions to yourtownhall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall.

Operations

Construction: Additional Closure on Lane Road

Saturday, June 24 (Backup date: Sunday, June 25) | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | Much of Lane Road is already closed for the steam piping replacement project. During this time, an additional section of Lane Road (between Crispell Drive and the University Hospital loading dock) will be closed for crane activity. Traffic control personnel will be on-site. Questions? Contact Scott Guynes, Senior Construction Administration Manager, at sg2tf@virginia.edu.

Underway: Application Access Reviews and Reauthorization for Critical UVA Health Applications

On June 14, UVA Health began a 15-day period of verification to ensure our employees have appropriate access to critical UVA Health Applications, including Epic, PACS, Pysix, Peoplesoft, and VPN. This is in addition to the Workday attestation many managers were asked to complete earlier this month.

Managers periodically receive automated emails requesting they review the application access assigned to their direct reports in our Access Management Platform (AMP) and “approve” or “deny” access appropriate for their roles. Managers must login to AMP and complete outstanding reviews by June 30, 2023; failure to attest to employee roles could result in loss of system access for those employees.

Managing access to IT systems protects patients from unauthorized access to their protected health information (PHI). Supervisors: view the overview of the review process. On the site, click on “Supervisor Review Activities and Bulk Approvals Tip Sheet.”

Questions? Contact UVA Help Desk at 434.924.5334.

Human Resources

Update: Commuter Parking Payroll Reimbursement

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

UVA Health FY23 Year-End Review Due Next Week

Manager evaluations, 1:1 meetings with team members, and manager acknowledgments are due June 30. Resources and additional details about the FY23 performance process, including the timeline for Classified Staff, can be found on UVA Health Performance Management. Questions? Email askhr@virginia.edu with the subject line "Performance Management Help."

Engagement Survey Action Planning Deadline

To all of our leaders, please be aware that action plans around the latest results of our engagement survey are due within the Press Ganey tool by June 30. For on-demand tools and resources, visit our engagement survey website. 

Happenings

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Community One Walk

Saturday, June 24 | Join UVA Health Center for Diabetes Technology as it partners with local volunteers for the 2023 JDRF Community One Walk. Register.

Safe Zone Training
Wednesday, June 28 | 9 a.m.-noon | MR5 Building 2005 | Introductory LGBTQ/Ally training workshop presented by UVA School of Medicine intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Access Mentorship Program: Mentees Apply Now

Deadline: Friday, June 30 | Matching mentors and mentees for ten-month New Hire and Career Progression programs. Beginning second cohort in July. Learn more and sign up. For more information, contact AmbulatoryAccessMentorshipProgram@uvahealth.org.

Schwartz Center Rounds: Healing Without a Cure

Friday, June 30 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall Auditorium | Healthcare providers reflect on and share how they’re affected by their work. Program aims to foster and support empathy, collaboration, and compassion for self and others. Panelists: Michael Keng, MD, Elayne Peloquin, Ann Marie Smith, and Chaplain Joncey Wagoner. Target audience: Physicians, nurses, advanced practice, chaplains, social workers — but everyone is invited. Grab-and-go lunch provided for first 50 people to arrive. Continuing education available.

UVA Health Pride Celebration

Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Roof Garden; Rain location: Mill Room, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | All team members and students welcome. Note: Please remember to wear a mask on the elevators when accessing the rooftop. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement; and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

6th Annual Mid-Atlantic Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium

July 6-7 | North Fork Research Park, Town Center Four and Virtual | Industry, government, and academia experts discuss research in biofabrication and cell manufacturing, regulatory considerations for biomanufactured tissues and organs, and clinical implementation of regenerative medicine products. Hosted by UVA Center for Advanced Biomanufacturing. Learn more and register.

Nominations Open: Advanced Practice Provider Recognition Awards

Deadline: Saturday, July 15  | UVA Health has nearly 600 advanced practice providers (APPs) such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, certified nurse midwives, audiologists, clinical nurse specialists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and genetic counselors. Consider nominating an APP colleague for an award:

• Excellence in Scholarship Award
• Exceptional Advanced Practice Provider Award
• Excellence in Leadership Award
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award
• Outstanding Educator Award
• Interprofessional Collaboration Award

Ceremony scheduled Friday, Sept. 29 at Pinn Hall during National APP Week. 

UVA Family Movie Nights

Saturdays, July 22, Aug. 19, Sept. 23 | Fontaine Research Park | 6-9 p.m. | Popcorn, kettle corn, and food trucks will be available. Films to be announced.

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

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

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

Use our facility ID! For more information, contact Tonya Fredericks at TRF4G@uvahealth.org or Bizz Glover at EBG7F@uvahealth.org.

Appreciation

Unsurpassed!

To provide the best possible service and care for our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their recent healthcare experience. Below — praise for our outstanding team members:

• “All the staff were amazing. Nurses helped me feel at ease. Dr. Copland was very knowledgeable and thorough. He took the time to answer all my questions and make me feel at ease. Nurse Duncan took the time to go over the procedure and my medications. I had stopped taking my blood pressure medicine. He helped convince me of the importance of maintaining and keeping a healthy blood pressure level to prevent things like stroke.”
• “The level of efficiency, professionalism, and kindness is unsurpassed! Claudette, the pre-op nurse, was very thorough, explaining the procedures before surgery. Dr. Phillip Smith was a consummate professional while at the same time assuaging my fears. Katie in anesthesia and Kevin the OR nurse are fantastic. Not to forget D.J., my PACU nurse who was so concerned about my comfort, and proficient. Thank you so much for paying such kind attention to [my wife’s] comfort and anxiety.”
• “My awesome surgeon Dr. Phillip Smith personally called me to address a post-op concern, even though he was on vacation! I've never known any physician to do that! Special thanks to Charlene, Melinda, Nikki, Amanda, and surgical on-call residents.”
• “Dr. Park will be my doctor of choice and I have recommended him in the two years he’s been helping me. Five stars!”
• “Every visit I've had in the Transplant Clinic has been extremely positive. Dr. Doyle is an amazing physician and truly cares about his patients and the whole transplant program. A special thank you to executives for continuing to support the growth of the transplant program, I would not want to go anywhere else!”
• “Dr. Jacob M. is such a wonderful and caring young doctor. He listens and more importantly, he hears what I have to say.”

Thanks to all our team members for providing compassionate and safe care!

Wednesday, June 21

UVA Health Children’s Ranked No. 1 for Third Consecutive Year

U.S. News and World Report also ranked nine out of 10 UVA Health Children's specialties among the top 50 of children's hospitals nationally, proving UVA Health Children's is truly home to an elite group of compassionate pediatric specialists and care teams.

“These awards from U.S. News highlight the high-quality, specialized care that our team at UVA Health Children’s provides to patients from across Virginia and beyond,” says K. Craig Kent, MD, UVA Health CEO and UVA Executive Vice president for Health Affairs. “As part of our 10-year strategic plan, our goal is to make it even easier for families to access our excellent, complex, pediatric care through our expanding clinical collaborations throughout the state.” Read more on Connect. Read more on Connect.

Farmers Market Begins Tomorrow

Savor the flavors of summer at the 11th Street Garage beginning tomorrow and every Thursday from June 22 to Sept. 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.! Visit vendors showcasing goodies and wares. Also, enjoy a variety of cuisine from food trucks.

COVID-19

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement Update

To provide an update on our COVID-19 vaccine communication from May 26 — as well as to follow new guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) — UVA Health will no longer require the COVID-19 vaccine among its team members, effective Aug. 4, 2023.

This new effective date coincides with CMS’ planned timeline for ending their COVID-19 vaccine requirement among healthcare team members working at CMS-certified facilities. For more information on this policy change, and to get answers to some common questions, please reference our summary article and FAQs on Connect.

Operations

Construction | Additional Closure on Lane Road

Saturday, June 24 (Backup date: Sunday, June 25) | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | Much of Lane Road is already closed for the steam piping replacement project. During this time, an additional section of Lane Road (between Crispell Drive and the University Hospital loading dock) will be closed for crane activity. Traffic-control personnel will be on-site. Questions? Contact Scott Guynes, Senior Construction Administration Manager.

Fire Pump Testing

Annual fire pump testing is scheduled for June 28. Do not be alarmed by the extended presence of Charlottesville Fire Department trucks parked outside the hospital. This is done as a precautionary measure during fire pump testing.

Emergency Response Teams Name Changes

Effective June 27, there will be name changes to two important emergency response teams:

• Pediatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) will be referred to as Pediatric MET.
• PE Response Team will be referred to as PERT (PE Response Team).

The changes are occurring because of the widespread use of the name “PERT” for “PE Response Team.” These teams still will be reached via the Emergency Operator at 924-2012 or 4-2012. Team services will not be altered.

Leadership

University Medical Center CEO Blog: Introducing the New and Improved Pegasus Air

Wendy Horton gives team members a sneak preview of the new Pegasus Air helicopter — a literal reminder “that the sky’s the limit when it comes to improving patient outcomes at UVA Health!” 

Human Resources

Self-Evaluations

Managers should hold their 1:1s and complete the “acknowledgement” step by June 30 — the due date for FY23 manager evaluations. Team members should complete their “acknowledgement” step by July 14. Find resources and additional details about the FY23 process on UVA Heath Performance. 

Happenings

APRN and DNP Information Session

Wednesday, June 21 | 7:30-8:30 p.m. | Online | Learn about advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs, including nurse practitioner master's degree specialties, clinical nurse specialist master's degree, and two pathways to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Learn more and register.

Updates in Kidney Transplantation: Removing Barriers and Building Bridges Conference

Thursday, June 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | UVA Fontaine Research Park, 560 Ray C. Hunt Dr. and Zoom | Kidney transplantation is the best option to restore quality of life for patients with end stage renal disease. Dialysis unit staff require relevant and accurate information on advances in kidney transplantation to educate patients. Registration closes June 18. Learn more.

Introduction to Emotional Emancipation Circles
Thursday, June 22 | 12-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1/G2 | Registration required. | On-site only | Share stories, deepen understanding of impact of historical forces on self-images and self-worth, relationships, and communities — and learn essential emotional wellness skills. Facilitated by Melody Pannell. Only for members of UVA and UVA Health. An empowering event focused on members of the African diaspora.

Opioid Use Disorder Education

Friday, June 23 | 8 a.m.-noon | Online | UVA School of Medicine interdisciplinary effort — including toxicology, emergency medicine, psychiatry, primary care, and others — to meet Drug Enforcement Agency’s increase of required hours of opioid education. Relevant for adult and pediatric providers. Designed with providers with prescribing privileges in mind, but open to other relevant members of community and care team. Learn more and register.

​​McCormick Observatory Pride Night

Friday, June 23, 9-11 p.m. | 600 McCormick Observatory Rd., Charlottesville, VA | Dr. Sean Johnson shares his research and experiences as a queer astronomer. View celestial objects through the historic, 26-inch McCormick Refractor and smaller telescopes (weather permitting) and tour the observatory. Family-friendly event; all are welcome! Get tickets.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Community One Walk

Saturday, June 24 | Join UVA Health Center for Diabetes Technology as it partners with local volunteers for the 2023 JDRF Community One Walk. Register.

UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, June 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream and Sandridge Auditorium (In-person attendance is encouraged.) | Join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more about the top priorities and latest developments for our organization. Submit your questions to YourTownHall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall.

“Freedom House Ambulance: The First Responders”

Saturday, July 8, 7 p.m. | 220 W. Market St., Vinegar Hill, Charlottesville | Multi-Emmy Award winning producer and director Annette Bank’s documentary traces the rise and fall of Freedom House Ambulance, an EMT service made up of Black men and women — pioneers in pre-hospital medicine. Indie Short Film Series screening followed by discussion. Sponsors include UVA Health and UVA Arts.

Appreciation | UVA Health Team Members Observe World Sickle Cell Day

UVA Health lit the top floors of the South Tower red on June 19 to raise awareness of one of the most common inherited diseases, currently affecting an estimated 100,000 Americans. Sickle cell disease is most common in people of African descent but can occur in all races — causing pain, severe anemia, infection, stroke, and other types of organ damage. It can lower life expectancy by 20-30 years. Also on June 19, team members were encouraged to wear red.

And at the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center Juneteenth Celebration in Charlottesville on June 17, Dr. Marquita Taylor and other team members represented the UVA Health Adult Sickle Cell Disease Program.

Thank you to all our team members for their care of and dedication to patients with sickle cell disease.

Monday, June 19

UVA Health Branding Is Updated to Reflect Forward Momentum

To keep up with our organization's evolution and expansion, UVA Health has unveiled refreshed branding including new facility names, logos, and team member resources. Key changes include:

• UVA Medical Center is now UVA Health University Medical Center.
• UVA Children's is now UVA Health Children's.
• Updated brand site.
• Expanded color palette.
• Updated graphics.

“The changes reflect the growth and progress that UVA Health has made over the past several years, including alignment with the recent launch of the One Future Together | Health and Hope for All strategic plan,” says Lisa Badeau, UVA Health Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. Take a look on Connect at all the ways you can use the brand.

Hope at Work: How Claudette Grant Cultivates Healthy Communities

Learn how this outreach specialist and her team creatively and innovatively support our strategic plan initiative of engagement and health equity across Virginia.

Operations

Juneteenth Holiday: Monday, June 19

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed.
• Parking and Transportation Modifications | University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Juneteenth.
  • Team members may park in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on June 19.
  • Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
  • UtoCar will operate normally.
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally on Tuesday, June 20.
• UVA Health Update newsletter will not be sent Monday, June 19. It will return Wednesday, June 21.

Patient Care

Billing Changes for Audio-Only Visits

The end of the public health emergency brings billing changes for audio-only visits:

• While audio-only visits are legally allowable, two commercial payers, United Healthcare and Anthem, no longer cover audio-only visits.
• The Patient Friendly Access (PFA) team is reaching out to patients currently scheduled for audio-only visits, to reschedule to in-person or video.
• The PFA team is instructed to inform Anthem and United patients about the lack of coverage prior to scheduling future visits. 

The updated billing grid is on Epic Learning Library (ELL). Questions? Contact the Professional Billing team at askupgacc@uvahealth.org or the Telemedicine team at telemedicine@uvahealth.org.

Happenings

Juneteenth: Celebrating Our Freedom Through Restorative Justice and Holistic Healing Practices

UVA Health acknowledges the historical significance of Juneteenth and is committed to supporting the holistic healing and hope of the African American community as we celebrate this day of freedom and liberation.

• Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) Juneteenth Parade | Saturday, June 17 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Join UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement team members as they march in the parade, which will begin at 9 a.m. at the Jackson P. Burley Middle School parking lot at 901 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, and wind down at JSAAHC front lawn. Black business vendors, food, ancestral tribute, and music scheduled on main stage until 3 p.m. 
• Dillwyn Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Straight Street Community Center, 1174 S. Constitution Route, Dillwyn, Virginia 23936 | Food vendors, arts, crafts, and music! UVA Neurology Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and the UVA Neurology Stroke team will promote stroke and cardiovascular disease prevention and general wellness. Also in attendance: senior centers, historical societies, NAACP, and social support services. 
• Sweet Home Alabama: A Chief and His Protege | Tuesday, June 20, 5:30 p.m., light hors d'oeuvres; 6 p.m. screening; 6:30-7:30 p.m., dialogue | Rm. 1110, Claude Moore Medical Education Building, 200 Jeanette Lancaster Way | Registration required to receive Zoom link | Opening remarks by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement’s Tracy Downs, MD, who will welcome special guests: filmmaker Frederick Murphy, and Joycelyn Davis — a descendant of Chief Charles Lewis, who was aboard the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States. Davis details her battle with cancer and her enslaved ancestors’ legacy of defying the odds.
• Introduction to Restorative Justice Circle Process | Wednesday, June 21 | 12-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1/G2 | Registration required. | On-site only | Melody Pannell, UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement, facilitates structured dialogue nurturing connections and empathy while honoring the uniqueness of each participant. Only for members of UVA and UVA Health.
• Introduction to Emotional Emancipation Circles | Thursday, June 22 | 12-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1/G2 | Registration required. | On-site only | Share stories; deepen understanding of impact of historical forces on self-images and self-worth, relationships, and communities; and learn essential emotional wellness skills. Facilitated by Melody Pannell. Only for members of UVA and UVA Health. An empowering event focusing on members of the African diaspora.

World Sickle Cell Day
June 19 is recognized by the United Nations as World Sickle Cell Day, a time to raise awareness about the disease and challenges faced by patients and their families. Events include:

• Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17 | Jefferson School | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 4th St. NW | Dr. Marquita Taylor and team members will represent the UVA Health Adult Sickle Cell Disease Program. Details.
• Red for Awareness | Monday, June 19 | UVA Health Medical Center will light the top floors of the South Tower red. Also: wear red to raise awareness.

ROSE Program: Drop Off or Pick Up Reusable Office Supplies

Tuesday, June 20 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off office supplies or take what you need monthly, including items such as envelopes, staplers, and desk lamps. Read more.

Voices in Clinical and Translational Science Series: The Promise of a Minority Brain Cell in Neurological Pathology
Tuesday, June 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker: Ukpong Eyo, PhD, UVA Assistant Professor of Neuroscience. This quarterly seminar series lifts underrepresented voices in research across the iTHRIV partnership with a focus on promoting dialogue and encouraging team science. Presenters will share their science and lived experience as an underrepresented researcher. Details.

Opioid Use Disorder Education: UVA Interprofessional Collaboration
Friday, June 23 | 8 a.m.-noon | Online | Members of the UVA School of Medicine have collaborated to create an interdisciplinary effort — including toxicology, emergency medicine, psychiatry, primary care, and others — to meet the Drug Enforcement Agency’s increase of required hours of opioid education. Relevant for adult and pediatric providers. This series will provide comprehensive opioid use and related substance use disorder education. While it is designed with providers with prescribing privileges in mind, sessions are open to other relevant members of the community and care team. Part two of this series will be on a soon-to-be-determined date in July. Details to come. Sessions will be recorded, and registrants will have online access to both parts. Learn more and register.

McCormick Observatory Pride Night
Friday, June 23, 9-11 p.m. | 600 McCormick Observatory Rd., Charlottesville, VA | Dr. Sean Johnson shares his research and experiences as a queer astronomer. View celestial objects through the historic, 26-inch McCormick Refractor and smaller telescopes (weather permitting) and tour the observatory. Family-friendly event; all are welcome! Get tickets.

UVA Health Pride Celebration

NEW DATE: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Roof Garden | All team members and students welcome. Note: Please remember to wear a mask on the elevators when accessing the rooftop. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement; and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

Information Webinars: UVA Medical Center Administrative Fellowships
Apply by Monday, July 31 | Learn more about UVA Health’s 2024-26 exciting fellowship program. Register for a webinar:

• Wednesday, June 28 | noon-1 p.m.
• Thursday, July 13 | 9-10 a.m.

Apply to the two-year commitment or read more on Connect. Questions? Contact Rena Cohen-Kurzrock, Khaing Phoo, or Libby Melzer at adminfellow@virginia.edu.

Appreciation

Shining Examples

To provide the best possible service and care for our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their recent healthcare experience. Below is some recent feedback praising our outstanding team members:

• “The overall level of care and attention to detail and professional conduct — with as cheerful an attitude as you can expect in the Emergency Department experience! A shining example of a well-run, healthcare facility. From cleanliness, to staff attitudes, to genuine concern for and delivery of excellent care — you all get a BRAVO ZULU [well done]!!”
• “Since my first operation at UVA Health in 2019 for my ankle, I have been truly blessed by the expertise of each employee. From the receptionist to the nurses and doctors, I have felt appreciated and always feel comfortable. I was amazed at the professionalism. Dr. Parks (ankle), Dr. Thomas Brown (knee), and Michael Martinez (prosthetics) are top of the line professionals!”
• “The whole crew is amazing and I practically live there with all the work I've had done and still need done. From Sam in scheduling's professionalism to Dr. Barrick's witty sense of humor, it's all great!”
• “Shout out to Sarah, Kayla, Michell, Josh, and all the patient care assistants who worked along them. I have the utmost respect for what you do on a daily basis. To Bob — who asked a volunteer to come play her harp in my mother's room — I will always remember your kindness and our conversation. That was such a beautiful sentiment that has never been witnessed by my family.”
• “I have multiple sclerosis and sometimes I talk in half sentences because I have 10 things trying to get out. Dr. Engel is patient with me, keeps me on point, and also is very action-oriented as a medical professional. I am safe with Dr. Engel. She’s a rock star!”

Thanks to all our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care!

Wednesday, June 14

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, June 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream and Sandridge Auditorium | Our strategic plan gives us a solid foundation as we continue our momentum as One Future Together: Health and Hope for All. Join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more about top priorities and latest developments for our organization.

Operations

Traffic and Commute Impact | Jefferson Park Avenue — Westbound Closure
Tuesday, June 13, through mid-August | Charlottesville and Dominion Power will close the westbound lane of Jefferson Park Avenue for two months. Traffic will be detoured via Shamrock and Stadium Roads. Please anticipate extended commute times.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog | Celebrating Growth: Human Resources Hosts Record-Setting Orientation

In her new Vision and Voice post, Wendy Horton shares how UVA Health has welcomed 1,439 new hires and 713 travelers in 2023. That includes the record-setting onboarding of 325 team members spanning three locations on May 30 “demonstrating the dedication and collaborative spirit that defines us as an institution.” Read more.

Happenings

Submit Nominations | Uteam Member of the Month

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

Access Mentorship Program: Mentors Apply Now
Deadline: Friday, June 16 | Mentors and mentees are being matched for ten-month New Hire and Career Progression programs. Second cohort begins in July. Mentors are being recruited through June 16. Sign up. For more information, contact AmbulatoryAccessMentorshipProgram@uvahealth.org.

Download: UVA Health Pride Month Virtual Background

UVA Health is committed to providing exceptional care and support to all individuals. The Pride design element used with our logo symbolizes our commitment to creating an inclusive environment that promotes the overall well-being of our LGBTQ+ patients and team members. During Pride Month, UVA Health is offering a virtual background featuring this symbol for use during Zoom or WebEx meetings. Download from Connect and show your Pride!

UVA Health Pride Celebration
New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Roof Garden | All team members and students welcome. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and ECCC’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office. Note: Please remember to wear a mask on the elevators when accessing the rooftop.

World Sickle Cell Day
June 19 is recognized by the United Nations as World Sickle Cell Day, a time to raise awareness about the disease and challenges faced by patients and their families. Events include:

• Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17 | Jefferson School | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 4th St. NW | Dr. Marquita Taylor and team members will represent the UVA Health Adult Sickle Cell Disease Program. Details.
• Red for Awareness | Monday, June 19 | UVA Health Medical Center will light the top floors of the South Tower red. Also: wear red to raise awareness.

ROSE Program | Drop Off or Pick Up Reusable Office Supplies

Tuesday, June 20 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off office supplies or take what you need monthly, including items such as envelopes, staplers, and desk lamps. Read more.

Juneteenth: Celebrating Our Freedom Through Restorative Justice and Holistic Healing Practices
UVA Health acknowledges the historical significance of Juneteenth and is committed to supporting the holistic healing and hope of the African American community as we celebrate this day of freedom and liberation.

• Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) Juneteenth Parade | Saturday, June 17 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Join UVA Health Office of DEI and Community Engagement team members as they march in the parade, which will begin at 9 a.m. at the Jackson P. Burley Middle School parking lot at 901 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, and wind down at JSAAHC front lawn. Black business vendors, food, ancestral tribute, and music scheduled on main stage until 3 p.m. 
• Dillwyn Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Straight Street Community Center, 1174 S. Constitution Route, Dillwyn, Virginia 23936 | Food vendors, arts, crafts, and music! UVA Neurology Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and the UVA Neurology Stroke team will promote stroke and cardiovascular disease prevention and general wellness. Also in attendance: senior centers, historical societies, NAACP, and social support services. 
• Sweet Home Alabama: A Chief and His Protege | Tuesday, June 20, 5:30 p.m., light hors d'oeuvres; 6 p.m. screening; 6:30-7:30 p.m., dialogue | Rm. 1110, Claude Moore Medical Education Building, 200 Jeanette Lancaster Way | Registration required to receive Zoom link | Opening remarks by UVA Health Office of DEI and Community Engagement’s Tracy Downs, MD, who will welcome  special guests: filmmaker Frederick Murphy and Joycelyn Davis — a descendant of Chief Charles Lewis, who was aboard the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States. Davis details her battle with cancer and her enslaved ancestors’ legacy of defying the odds.
• Introduction to Restorative Justice Circle Process | Wednesday, June 21 | 12-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1/G2 | Registration required. | On-site only | Melody Pannell, UVA Health Office of DEI and Community Engagement, facilitates structured dialogue nurturing connections and empathy while honoring the uniqueness of each participant. Only for members of UVA and UVA Health.
• Introduction to Emotional Emancipation Circles | Thursday, June 22 | 12-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1/G2 | Registration required. | On-site only | Share stories, deepen understanding of impact of historical forces on self-images and self-worth, relationships, and communities — and learn essential emotional wellness skills. Facilitated by Melody Pannell. Only for members of UVA and UVA Health. An empowering event focused on members of the African diaspora.

Farmers Market
Thursdays, June 22-Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 11th Street Garage 

Sixth Annual Mid-Atlantic Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium
July 6-7 | North Fork Research Park, Town Center Four and Virtual |Industry, government, and academia experts discuss research in biofabrication and cell manufacturing, regulatory considerations for biomanufactured tissues and organs, and clinical implementation of regenerative medicine products. Hosted by UVA Center for Advanced Biomanufacturing. Learn more and register.

“Freedom House Ambulance: The First Responders”
Saturday, July 8, 7 p.m. | 220 W. Market St., Vinegar Hill, Charlottesville | Multi-Emmy Award winning producer and director Annette Bank’s documentary traces the rise and fall of Freedom House Ambulance, an EMT service made up of Black men and women — pioneers in pre-hospital medicine. Indie Short Film Series screening followed by discussion. Sponsors include UVA Health and UVA Arts.

Appreciation

4 Ways Shared Success Fosters Teamwork and Expertise

Every day at the UVA Health Maternal and Fetal Clinic, Battle Building — Abby Southerland, manager, and Nancy Spindel, charge nurse, see the impact teamwork can have on a hospital. Under their leadership, the team has developed a culture of proactive support and engagement with positive results for clinicians and patients.

“There's a lot of passion on this team, and people are happiest when they’re working with people who have the same passion," declares Southerland. "That shared passion and the resulting happiness mean we’re all more likely to succeed!”

From support, to leadership, to communication, to expertise — in this Connect article, the team offers helpful tips any UVA Health team may be able to use to promote collaboration and engagement. We thank them for sharing their valuable insights!

Monday, June 12

Happening This Week: UVA Health Pride Celebration

New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Roof Garden | All team members and students welcome. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and ECCC’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

Pride Lunch and Learn

Tuesday, June 13 | 12-1 p.m. | Shenandoah LGBTQ Center, 13 Beverley St., 5th floor, Staunton, Virginia, 24401, and Zoom, Meeting ID: 949 3939 2181, passcode: 487509 |Emma Neville, Programs Director and community health worker, talks about health disparities, especially in rural areas; center services; and how to get involved in providing care and support. Facilitated by UVA Health and UVA Physicians Group.

Operations

Traffic and Commute Impact | Jefferson Park Avenue — Westbound Closure

Tuesday, June 13, through mid-August | The City of Charlottesville and Dominion Power will close the westbound lane of Jefferson Park Avenue for two months. Traffic will be detoured via Shamrock and Stadium Roads. Please anticipate extended commute times.

Monthly Epic Update

Changes go live Tuesday, June 13 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334.

Human Resources

Self-Evaluations

FY23 UVA Health manager evaluations are due June 30. Managers should hold their 1:1s and complete the acknowledgement step by this date. Team members should complete their acknowledgement step by July 14. Resources and additional details about the FY23 performance process can be found on the UVA Health Performance website.

Benefit Wednesday: Meet With a Counselor

Wednesday, June 14 | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | A Human Resources team benefits counselor will be on-site at the Medical Center monthly to discuss your benefits and take your questions. No appointments necessary; walk-ins welcome. See additional monthly dates.

Happenings

2023 Team Member Art Exhibit

Through Wednesday, July 5 | University Hospital lobby | A huge success! Don't miss the remarkable talents of 36 of your peers who submitted 140+ pieces.

Access Mentorship Program: Mentors Apply Now

Deadline: Friday, June 16 | Mentors and mentees are being matched for ten-month New Hire and Career Progression programs. Second cohort begins in July. Mentors are being recruited through June 16. Sign up. For more information, contact AmbulatoryAccessMentorshipProgram@uvahealth.org. 

World Sickle Cell Day

June 19 is recognized by the United Nations as World Sickle Cell Day, a time to raise awareness about the disease and challenges faced by patients and their families. Upcoming events include:

• Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17 | Jefferson School | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 4th St. NW | Dr. Marquita Taylor and other UVA team members will represent the UVA Health Adult Sickle Cell Disease Program. Details.
• Red for Awareness | Monday, June 19 | UVA Health Medical Center will light the top floors of the South Tower red. Also: wear red to raise awareness.

ROSE Program | Drop Off or Pick Up Reusable Office Supplies

Tuesday, June 20 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 |Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off office supplies or take what you need monthly from the ROSE Supply Closet, which includes items such as envelopes, staplers, and desk lamps. Read more.

APRN and DNP Information Session

Wednesday, June 21 | 7:30-8:30 p.m. | Online | Learn about advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs, including nurse practitioner master's degree specialties, clinical nurse specialist master's degree, and two pathways to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Learn more and register.

Conference | Updates in Kidney Transplantation: Removing Barriers and Building Bridges

Thursday, June 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | UVA Fontaine Research Park, 560 Ray C. Hunt Dr. and Zoom | Kidney transplantation is the best option to restore quality of life for patients with end stage renal disease. Dialysis unit staff require relevant and accurate information on advances in kidney transplantation to educate patients in their dialysis units. Registration closes June 18. Learn more.

Understanding and Recovering From Racial Trauma

Thursday, June 22 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Join an emotional wellness space where individuals can process their experience with racial trauma. Participants will learn to understand how racial trauma can affect mental and emotional well-being and how they can incorporate ways to interrupt the trauma response by drawing upon culturally grounded healing strategies. This series runs on the fourth Thursday of each month. Register.

Opioid Use Disorder Education: UVA Interprofessional Collaboration

Friday, June 23 | 8 a.m.-noon | Online | Members of the UVA School of Medicine have collaborated to create an interdisciplinary effort — including toxicology, emergency medicine, psychiatry, primary care, and others — to meet the Drug Enforcement Agency’s increase of required hours of opioid education. Relevant for adult and pediatric providers. This series will provide comprehensive opioid use and related substance use disorder education. While it is designed with providers with prescribing privileges in mind, sessions are open to other relevant members of the community and care team. Part two of this series will be on a soon-to-be-determined date in July. Details to come. Sessions will be recorded, and registrants will have online access to both parts. Learn more and register.

Appreciation

Shout Out to Our Researchers!

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

• New Research Center | Our new Center for Health Equity and Precision Public Health aims to improve the health and well-being of rural residents, the economically challenged and minority groups across Virginia and beyond. (Keith L. Keene, PhD)
• Cancer Disparity | Research from UVA Cancer Center revealed troubling socioeconomic disparities in treatment access for early stage esophageal adenocarcinoma, a potentially fatal cancer which can be cured if treated in time. (Alexander Podboy, MD)
• Dengue Transmission | An important discovery about mosquito saliva helps explain why dengue viruses are transmitted so easily and could lead to new ways to prevent infection. (Mariano A. Garcia-Blanco, MD, PhD)
• Heart Attack Risk | The discovery of a gene that shapes heart attack risk advances our understanding of a wide range of serious health conditions, including aneurysms and coronary artery disease. (Clint L. Miller, PhD)
• Artificial Pancreas | The life-changing artificial pancreas developed at our Center for Diabetes Technology was shown to benefit people ages 2-72 with type 1 diabetes. (Boris Kovatchev, PhD)
• Pandemic Suicide Attempts | The COVID-19 pandemic saw a major increase in attempted suicides by poison among children and teens. (Christopher Holstege, MD)
• Seizure Treatments | New insights into how the brain responds to seizures could facilitate the development of much-needed treatments for the third of patients who don’t respond to existing options. (Pictured from left: Ukpong B. Eyo, PhD, and Edward Perez-Reyes, PhD.)

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!

To keep up with the School of Medicine's research news, subscribe to the Making of Medicine blog.

Friday, June 9

Celebrating Juneteenth

Juneeteenth, or June 19, commemorates the day when the last 250,000 enslaved African Americans, in Galveston, Texas, learned of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1865 — more than two years after it was issued. This year, UVA Health observes Juneteenth-related events with the theme, “Celebrating Our Freedom Through Restorative Justice and Holistic Healing Practices.”

• Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) Juneteenth Parade | Saturday, June 17 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Join team members of the UVA Health Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) and Community Engagement to march in the parade, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Jackson P. Burley Middle School parking lot at 901 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, and winding down at JSAAHC front lawn. Black business vendors, food, ancestral tribute, and music scheduled on the main stage until 3 p.m.
• Dillwyn Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 17 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Straight Street Community Center, 1174 S. Constitution Route, Dillwyn, VA | Food vendors, arts, crafts, and music! UVA Neurology DEI Committee and the UVA Neurology Stroke team will promote stroke and cardiovascular disease prevention and general wellness. Also in attendance: senior centers, historical societies, NAACP, and social support services.
• Sweet Home Alabama: A Chief and His Protege | Tuesday, June 20 | 5:30 p.m., light hors d'oeuvres; 6-7:30 p.m., screening and dialogue | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio, Room 1110, and Virtual | Registration required to receive Zoom link | Opening remarks by UVA Health Office of DEI and Community Engagement’s Dr. Tracy Downs who will welcome special guests: filmmaker, Frederick Murphy, and Clotilda descendant Joycelyn Davis. This short explores the parallels of survival, perseverance, and unapologetic preservation. Davis is a descendant of Chief Charles Lewis, who was aboard the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States. She details her battle with cancer and how her enslaved ancestors’ legacy of defying the odds validated her ability to conquer obstacles. Davis, alongside Pastor Derek Tucker, express their commitment to keeping the rich history of Africatown, USA, a small community north of Mobile, Alabama, founded by the Clotilda’s survivors after the Civil War.

Operations

Traffic and Commute Impact | Jefferson Park Avenue — Westbound Closure

Tuesday, June 13, through mid-August | The City of Charlottesville and Dominion Power will be closing the westbound lane of Jefferson Park Avenue for two months. Traffic will be detoured via Shamrock and Stadium Roads. Please anticipate extended commute times.

Monthly Epic Update

Changes go live Tuesday, June 13 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334.

Human Resources

Benefit Wednesday: Meet With a Counselor

Wednesday, June 14 | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | A Human Resources team benefits counselor will be on-site at the Medical Center monthly to discuss your benefits and take your questions. No appointments necessary; walk-ins welcome. See additional monthly dates.

Happenings

UVA Health Pride Celebration

New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Roof Garden | All team members and students welcome. Light refreshments served. Hosted by UVA Health’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and ECCC’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

Voices in Clinical and Translational Science Series | The Promise of a Minority Brain Cell in Neurological Pathology

Tuesday, June 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker: Ukpong Eyo, PhD, UVA Assistant Professor of Neuroscience. This quarterly seminar series lifts underrepresented voices in research across the iTHRIV partnership with a focus on promoting dialogue and encouraging team science. Presenters will share their science and lived experience as an underrepresented researcher. Details.

Farmer’s Market

Thursdays, June 22, to Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 11th Street Garage | Food trucks and farmers with fresh vegetables will be on site.

47th Annual Fitz-Hugh Symposium

June 22-24 | Boar’s Head Resort | A series of lectures, academic activities, and a banquet. The symposium kicks off with a didactic lecture series. Saturday is reserved for the Charles W. Grossman course on The Nose: Inside and Out. A fresh cadaver lab at the UVA Skull Base Lab emphasizes endoscopic sinus surgery and Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty. The symposium concludes on Saturday evening with a banquet to celebrate graduating residents. Hosted by the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Learn more and register.

McCormick Observatory Pride Night

Friday, June 23, 9-11 p.m. | 600 McCormick Observatory Rd., Charlottesville, VA | Dr. Sean Johnson shares his research and experiences as a queer astronomer. View celestial objects through the historic, 26-inch McCormick Refractor and smaller telescopes (weather permitting) and tour the observatory. Family-friendly event; all are welcome! Get tickets.

Save These Dates: UVA Family Movie Night

Saturdays, July 22, Aug. 19, Sept. 23 | Fontaine Research Park | 6-9 p.m. | Popcorn, kettle korn, and food trucks will be available. Titles of films will be announced soon — keep an eye on this space for updates.

Appreciation

“I Cannot Imagine a Better Experience Anywhere Else” | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

To provide the best possible service and care for our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their recent healthcare experience. Below is a small selection of recent feedback praising our outstanding team members:

• “Simply awesome experience with the staff! Best compliment I can give is that I will need my other hip replaced and, as much as my wife and I would love to move away from here, I won't do it until I have my other hip replaced as I cannot imagine a better experience anywhere else.”
• “The UVA Mammography team has earned their recent awards. They create a comfortable and safe environment at a stressful time for women. Donna has been my mammogram screener for decades, and she only grows more competent and compassionate as the years go by.”
• “We were so impressed with the staff and their friendliness and genuine desire to help and make our experience as good as it could be. Everyone was so kind and went above and beyond to serve us and to take care of me and my baby. You can tell they really cared and love what they do.”
• “The front door staff who came to my car and took me by wheelchair to my appointment were so nice! I can't emphasize enough how important this service is. It makes the difference between my being able to come to appointments at this facility and not being able to. So please keep that up!”

Thanks to all our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care.

Wednesday, June 7

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, June 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestream and Sandridge Auditorium | Our new strategic plan  gives us a solid foundation as we continue our momentum as One Future Together: Health and Hope for All. Join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more about the top priorities and latest developments for our organization.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog | Excellence Driven: New Program Launches to Transform Emergency Department (ED)

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses the ED’s pilot of Excellence Driven — an initiative to streamline our care delivery and pave the way for a better patient experience. “This collective effort will help improve patient safety and outcomes for the 60% of our patients who are admitted to UVA Health Medical Center through the ED. It will also help alleviate strain from our incredibly hardworking team members in the ED and throughout the medical center.” Read more.

Happenings

Submit Nominations | Uteam Member of the Month

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

How to Grow Through Stress

Thursday, June 8 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Zoom | In this reward-eligible webinar, you will learn mindfulness techniques for leaning into stress with awareness and compassion for yourself and others, empowering you to move forward and thrive. Register.

Access Mentorship Program: Mentors Apply Now

Deadline: Friday, June 16 | Mentors and mentees are being matched for ten-month New Hire and Career Progression programs. Second cohort begins in July. Mentors are being recruited through June 16. Sign up. For more information, contact AmbulatoryAccessMentorshipProgram@uvahealth.org. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall, Ground Floor, Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers: get a new or updated headshot taken in 10 minutes or less on dates listed below. No appointment needed. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Friday, June 16 | 1-4 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 20 | noon-3 p.m.
• Thursday, June 29 | noon-3 p.m.

Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) Juneteenth Parade

Saturday, June 17 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Join team members of UVA Health’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement to march in the parade, which will begin at 9 a.m. at the Jackson P. Burley Middle School parking lot at 901 Rose Hill Dr, Charlottesville, and wind down at JSAAHC front lawn. Black business vendors, food, ancestral tribute, and music scheduled on the main stage until 3 p.m.

Celebrating Pride Month

This year, UVA Health embraces the theme of “Standing Together with Dignity and Determination” during Pride Month.

• Download | UVA Health Pride Month Virtual Background | At UVA Health, we’re committed to providing exceptional care and support to all individuals. The Pride design element used with our logo symbolizes our commitment to creating an inclusive environment that promotes the overall well-being of our LGBTQ+ patients and team members. During Pride Month, UVA Health is offering a virtual background featuring this symbol for use during Zoom or WebEx meetings. Download from Connect and show your Pride!

• The Power of Pride | Thursday, June 8 | 3-4 p.m. | Webinar | Kimberly Acquaviva, PhD, MSW, CSE, FNAP will describe the successes and challenges of LGBTQ+ rights in the United States, with a focus on recent laws that hinder the rights of transgender individuals and the implications of the overturning of Roe vs. Wade for LGBTQ+ individuals. Learn more and register.

• Pride Month Lunch and Learn | Tuesday, June 13 | 12-1 p.m. | Shenandoah LGBTQ Center, 13 Beverley St., 5th floor, Staunton, Virginia, 24401 and Zoom Meeting ID: 949 3939 2181, passcode: 487509 | Emma Neville, Programs Director and community health worker, talks about health disparities, especially in rural areas; center services; and how to get involved in providing care and support. Facilitated by UVA Health and UVA Physicians Group.

• UVA Health Pride Celebration | New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Roof Garden | All team members and students welcome. Light refreshments served. Hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, and co-sponsored by LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.

Appreciation

‘It’s Really About the Patient’ | Recruiting and Retaining Quality Nurses

Finding and hiring talented nurses is a nationwide challenge. Veronica Brill, Associate Chief Nursing Officer, asked Debbie Lewandowski, Inpatient Director and RN Traveler Liaison, and her teams, to take on the task.

From streamlining the hiring process with “auto offers” and onboarding and retaining international nurses, to leveraging the insights of current UVA Health nurses — Lewandowski and her teams are delivering.

She credits their success to the out-of-the-box thinking and teamwork of: Melynda Zarzyski, RN, now in HR; team members in nursing: Scott Austin, Lindsay Bohn, Ginny Cramer, Linda Edenfield, Brandon Eves, Matt Houston, Loucita Hurlbrink, Nate Ledford, TJ Lovdal, Leigh Ann Nordt, Amber Norris, and Taralyn Wear; and in HR: Renee Bounds, Connie Lascala, and Balone Thompson.

Sums up Lewandowski, “I anchor everything I do in service to the patients and the team, because at the end of the day, it's really about them.” Read more on Connect.

Monday, June 5

Emergency Notification System Test

Tuesday, June 6 | 10:50-11 a.m. | A routine emergency notification system test will be sent at this time. When the test is over, a "test complete" message will be issued. Details can be found in the June 1 email from Timothy Longo, Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police; and Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Operations

Construction | Medical Center Loading Dock Safety Near Lane Road

Due to the construction taking place on Lane Road, trucks are having to back up farther to reach the loading dock. If you are entering the building from the loading dock, please yield to trucks that are backing up. Drivers’ visibility is limited and we want to keep our team members safe.

Construction Impact | Staff Parking and Sidewalk Closure

Through Friday, June 9 | 500 Ray C. Hunt Dr. | To support a new utility plant at Fontaine Research Park, there will be test-well drilling in the staff parking areas. Expect noise throughout the day and avoid the closed areas. Questions? Contact Chris Pouncey, Senior Project Manager.

FEAP: Announcements and Renovation

In its drive to respond to changing needs, the Faculty and Employee Assistance Program (FEAP) announces the following:

• Additional Counseling | In addition to the confidential assessment, short-term counseling, referral, and follow-up, FEAP can now connect you with trained professionals who have the certifications, knowledge, and experience to meet a variety of financial and eldercare concerns through consultation and customized guidance. Call 434.243.2643.
• Urgent Assistance | If you require urgent assistance from FEAP outside business hours, call 434.243.2643. Your request will be answered immediately by a mental health professional who is trained to respond to a crisis situation if required.
• Renovation | Beginning Tuesday, June 20, FEAP’s office in the West Complex will be under renovation for approximately eight weeks. During this time, appointments will still be available virtually through a HIPAA-compliant platform, and as capacity allows in our office on 350 Old Ivy Rd. FEAP looks forward to welcoming visitors and clients in a refreshed space that promises to be more supportive of mental health and well-being.

For additional information, please visit the website or contact FEAP.

Leadership

Emergency Department | “Excellence Driven” Model of Operational Efficiency

From the June 5 message from Wendy Horton, PharmD, CEO, UVA Medical Center: “This week, our ED will begin to further implement important transformational efforts that will redefine the way we welcome and assess our patients, while providing the highest level of quality care. The ED team has chosen to title this commitment ‘Excellence Driven,’ as the model strives to streamline our care delivery and contribute to a better patient experience and shorter length of stay, always through a model of care delivery excellence.” Learn more on Connect.

Human Resources

Self-Evaluations

FY23 UVA Health manager evaluations are due June 30. Managers should hold their 1:1s and complete the acknowledgement step by this date. Team members should complete their acknowledgement step by July 14. Managers can sign up for June 13 goal-setting and feedback training in Workday Learning by searching for “UVAH Performance.” Resources and additional details about the FY23 performance process, including the timeline for classified staff, can be found on the UVA Health Performance website.

Happenings

Clinical Concerns for Novel Recreational Drug Use | Over-the-Counter Substance Abuse

Tuesday, June 6 | 4-5 p.m. | Online | This ECHO series will provide a better understanding of emerging clinical and epidemiological trends in the misuse of substances. While live attendance is encouraged, sessions also will be recorded and shared with those who register. CME credits available. Register.

RN-to-BSN Information Sessions | Richmond Location

UVA School of Nursing's RN-to-BSN program is the region's very best, and offers all the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. Learn more at one of these information sessions:

• Wednesday, June 7 | 6-7 p.m. | 2810 N. Parham Rd., Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23294 | Details
• Wednesday, Sept. 27 | 6-7 p.m. | 2810 N. Parham Rd., Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23294 | Details

The Power of Pride

Thursday, June 8 | 3-4 p.m. | Webinar | Kimberly Acquaviva, PhD, MSW, CSE, FNAP, will describe the successes and remaining challenges related to LGBTQ+ rights in the United States, with a focus on recent laws that hinder the rights of transgender individuals and the implications of the overturning of Roe vs. Wade for LGBTQ+ individuals. Learn more and register.

How to Grow Through Stress

Thursday, June 8 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Zoom | In this reward-eligible webinar, you will learn mindfulness techniques for leaning into stress with awareness and compassion for yourself and others, empowering you to move forward and thrive. Register.

UVA Health Pride Celebration

New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Roof Garden | All team members and students are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. Hosted by the Office of Diversity & Community Engagement and co-sponsored by the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office. Rain date: Friday, June 30.

APRN and DNP Information Session

Wednesday, June 21 | 7:30-8:30 p.m. | Online | Learn about advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs, including nurse practitioner master's degree specialties, clinical nurse specialist master's degree, and two pathways to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Learn more and register.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Community Walk

Saturday, June 24 | UVA Health’s Center for Diabetes Technology is partnering with local volunteers for the 2023 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Community Walk. Many people in the Charlottesville community and beyond have been touched by type 1 diabetes and UVA Health is working to raise support to find a cure.

Appreciation

Special Super-Sized Appreciation | Human Resources Hosts Record-Setting Orientation!

On Tuesday, May 30, UVA Health Medical Center welcomed its largest orientation class of new hires. Held at three locations, 220 new hires received a warm reception from Human Resources and Reid Adams, MD,  Chief Medical Officer (pictured), who gave the welcoming address. A total of 325 employees were onboarded to new positions (including external travelers and transfers). Orchestrating such a giant event required collaboration among many areas. They include:  

• Talent Support | Ensures that all candidates meet clearance requirements, including background check screening, license verification, education verification, and confirmation from Employee Health of health screening before they begin work at UVA Health. Talent Support also coordinates and runs the morning Day One Orientation program, which includes not only the presentation of information, but I-9 processing and handling of any other first-day questions. Once recruited, Talent Support handles all pre and onboarding steps and is the first face to welcome our new hires into UVA.
• Talent Acquisition | Partners with all departments to attract and hire top talent, including recruitment of the largest orientation class to date.
• Occupational Health | Conducts new employee assessments for all UVA Health new hires to ensure compliance with Policy OCH-002, Occupational Health Screening and Wellness. This policy requires all health system team members to meet both one-time and annual screening and immunization requirements. The Occupational Health clinics also conduct substance testing for new hires whose roles require drug testing.
• Health Information and Technology (HIT) | Supports the onboarding process by providing computing IDs, email, and access to systems — like Epic — so team members can hit the ground running during their first week.
• Clinical and Revenue Cycle Epic Training Teams | Plays an integral part in the training and onboarding of all new UVA Health team members who use Epic to document patient care outcomes. Prior to a new hire’s first day on the job, Epic training analyzes the full list of team members, matches their role to required training, and reviews Access Management Platform (AMP) security requests placed by leaders. The next step is to assign and schedule required training to each team member in Workday and Oracle, instruct the classes, and administer assessments. The Epic training teams also manages over 750 pieces of content located across our learning management systems and oversees the Epic Learning Library, a document repository for all Epic related content.
• Nursing Professional Development Services (NPDS) | Supports new team members through a number of programs and classes throughout the multi-phased onboarding experience. During the initial orientation phase, NPDS conducts five days of orientation to nurses, patient care technicians, certified nurse aids, clinical nurse instructors, Earn While You Learn participants, and other patient care technician roles.
• Badge ID Office | The first department team members likely will contact after completing orientation. This team provides documented and verified employee IDs, along with specific access for individuals as defined by their role. The digital access controls embedded in the badge, along with the mag-strip and individual barcodes, are used by many areas to access things like clocking in through Kronos, scrubs, and paying for food in the cafeteria.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems | Supports team members with modules that show how to record and view time in Kronos. In addition to viewing timecard transactions, this group also has job aids to assist requesting time off, floating time to another cost center, and self-scheduling for Advanced Scheduling team members. The ERP Systems team is available to assist team members with any questions or concerns by submitting an HIT ticket.
• Benefits | Conducts an optional benefit presentation for new team members in the afternoon, after the new team member orientation.

Thank you to all involved for making new hires (and those moving into new positions) welcome to UVA Health! See more photos on Connect.

Friday, June 2

Celebrating Pride Month at UVA Health

“Throughout the month of June, we unite with people across the country in celebrating Pride Month, commemorating the significant impact the LGBTQ+ community has had on our society, culture, and history. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are among our shared values at UVA Health — and community engagement and health equity is one of the main pillars of our mission. We strongly support the LGBTQ+ community and we stand in solidarity because, by putting our patients at the center of everything we do, we provide compassionate and inclusive care regardless of their backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities.” Read the full message from UVA Health senior leaders in the June 1 email or on Connect.

• UVA Health Pride Celebration | New date: Friday, June 30 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Roof Garden | All team members and students are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. Hosted by the Office of Diversity & Community Engagement and co-sponsored by the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee and UVA Health Cancer Center’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office. Rain date: Friday, June 30.
• McCormick Observatory | First Annual Pride Night | Friday, June 23 | 9-11 p.m. | Leander McCormick Observatory, 600 McCormick Rd. | Join the first annual Pride Night at McCormick Observatory. This year, UVA welcomes Dr. Sean Johnson from the University of Michigan. He will speak about his research and experiences as a queer astronomer. Visitors can view celestial objects through the historic 26-inch McCormick Refractor and other smaller telescopes (weather permitting), and tour the observatory. All are welcome. Get tickets.

Ambulatory

In Case You Missed It: The May Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Is Here

Get the latest on the Ambulatory transformation in the May edition of the Ambulatory Operations Progress Report, including the One Team | United on Access Wave 2 go-live status, Ambulatory Role Delineation Project nursing updates, and FY24 Ambulatory division goal targets.

Operations

Tell Us Your Story!

Ready to share your UVA Health story of inspiring Hope at Work? Complete this form to be considered for a future installment in our new, Connect article series Hope at Work, showcasing inspiring stories about how team members contribute to UVA Health’s 10-year Strategic Plan: “One Future Together | Health and Hope for All.” Read the latest installment:

• Hope at Work: UVA Health Welcome Team Strengthens Our Foundation From the Ground Up — And More | They’re the first faces you see at UVA Health — no matter the hour. But they don’t just put out the welcome mat. Sometimes, their efforts are lifesaving.

Construction Impact | Staff Parking and Sidewalk Closure

Monday, June 5, through Friday, June 9 | 500 Ray C. Hunt Dr. | To support a new utility plant at Fontaine Research Park, there will be test-well drilling in the staff parking areas. Expect noise throughout the day and avoid the closed areas. Questions? Contact Chris Pouncey, Senior Project Manager.

Emergency Notification System Test

Tuesday, June 6 | 10:50-11 a.m. | A routine emergency notification system test will be sent at this time. When the test is over, a "test complete" message will be issued. Details can be found in the June 1 email from Timothy Longo, Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police; and Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Take the Sustainability Survey

A UVA Cornerstone Program group is looking for team member feedback about sustainability. Survey responders can be entered in a drawing to receive a $20 Bodo’s Bagels gift card. Ten winners will be selected.

Happenings

2023 Team Member Art Exhibit

Through Wednesday, July 5 | University Hospital lobby | A huge success! Don't miss the remarkable talents of 36 of your peers who submitted 140+ pieces.

First Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety Showcase

Monday, June 5 | 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Poster viewing at 11:30 a.m.; first oral presentations at 11:50 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A, or Zoom | This UVA Health Patient Safety event will recognize local improvements in quality improvement and patient safety from all disciplines. Questions? Email QIPSShowcase@uvahealth.org, Dr. Jess Dreicer, or Dr. Elisa Hampton.

Access Mentorship Program: Mentors Apply Now

Deadline: Friday, June 16 | The Access Mentorship Program, which matches mentors and mentees for ten-month New Hire and Career Progression programs, is beginning its second cohort in July. It is actively recruiting mentors through June 16. Sign up. For more information, contact AmbulatoryAccessMentorshipProgram@uvahealth.org.   

Dillwyn Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday, June 17 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Straight Street Community Center | 1174 S Constitution Route, Dillwyn, VA | Members from the UVA Neurology Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and UVA Neurology Stroke team will be attending this event to promote stroke and cardiovascular disease prevention and general wellness. Other participants in the event will be local senior centers, historical societies, NAACP, and social support services (e.g., Jefferson Area Board for Aging, Sexual Assault Resource Agency). The event will also host food vendors, arts, crafts, and music.

Information Webinars | UVA Medical Center Administrative Fellowships

Apply by Monday, July 31 | Learn more about UVA Health’s 2024-26 exciting fellowship program by checking out this flyer or by registering for an upcoming webinar:

• Monday, June 5 | 5-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 28 | noon-1 p.m.
• Thursday, July 13 | 9-10 a.m.

Apply to the two-year commitment or read more on Connect. Questions? Contact Rena Cohen-Kurzrock, Khaing Phoo, or Libby Melzer at adminfellow@virginia.edu.

Appreciation

“I Don't Want to Go Anywhere Else” | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

To provide the best possible service and care for our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their recent healthcare experience. Below is a small selection of recent feedback praising our outstanding team members:

• “Everything went better than I was expecting — never having had any surgeries before. The doctors and nurses were wonderful. I was especially impressed with a nurse in the procedure room, Lea, who was very sensitive and went beyond her duties to make me comfortable. I am forever grateful to all of you.”
• “Please convey my sincere thanks and utmost appreciation to Beth and Martha at your Northridge CT facility. I suffer from fairly acute claustrophobia, to the point that even the (very open) CT machine triggers significant anxiety. Beth and Martha were kind, sympathetic, and understanding. Their professionalism and gentle encouragement allowed me to complete my annual lung cancer screening, and even achieve something of a mental breakthrough which I believe will help me approach next year's test with considerably less apprehension. Beth and Martha are really, really good at their jobs and should be commended.”
• “A cart was provided to take us from the Primary Care Center to the parking garage, right to the car. It would have been very difficult without the cart assistance. We are most grateful for the service and the kind drivers.”
• “The staff makes me feel cared for, as a person going through a very tough time in life. They are busy, yes, but if I have a problem or a question, they don't make me feel like a burden. I believe I am getting the best care possible at UVA Health and I don't want to go anywhere else for my cancer care. Thank you!”

Thanks to all our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care.

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