Apply Now to Be an Epic Super User 

Deadline: Friday, June 13 | Are you passionate about supporting your team and enhancing patient care through Epic optimization? The Epic Training Super User Program is looking for dedicated team members to serve as trusted resources and leaders within their units. Super Users are essential members of the Health Information Technology (HIT) program who bridge the gap between frontline staff, training, and clinical informatics. They are nominated by their manager, director, or peers based on their professionalism, teamwork, and willingness to go the extra mile. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Operations 

West Complex Main Entrance Parking Lot Closure 

May 31-June 1 | As part of the West Complex-Davis Wing rooftop unit replacement project, the West Complex main entrance and parking lot will be closed from Saturday, May 31, at 4 a.m., through Sunday, June 1, at 6 p.m. During this time, a temporary entrance will be available on Hospital Drive to ensure continued access for patients and team members. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time for arrival during this period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 

Location Change: 4 East and 4 West 

Monday, June 2 | 5:30 a.m. | 4 East (currently acute cardiology) and 4 West (currently thoracic cardiovascular [TCV] acute) will be swapping locations. As of June 2, TCV acute will be located in 4E and acute cardiology with be located in 4W. This places TCV acute closer to 4 South TCV ICU. Questions? Contact Rebecca Lewis, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, at 434.882.2427. 

Safety and Security Update 

At University Medical Center, we're reinforcing our culture of safety with a focus on trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. Our systemwide initiatives are designed to protect patients, team members, and visitors while fostering an environment where healing and professional growth can flourish. Key efforts include enhancing access control with a shift to role-based access, expanding our security camera network, and strengthening protocols around interactions with correctional and law enforcement authorities. 

We're also investing in both on-Grounds and off-site safety — with increased security staffing, improved emergency planning, and enhanced training. New developments include a Visitor Management System launching next fiscal year and a covert weapons detection system planned for FY26. These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a secure and welcoming space for all. 

Click here for more details on what’s ahead and how you can support a safer UVA Health. 

Leadership 

Apply: The Cornerstone Program 

Deadline: Monday, June 2 | The 2025-26 season of The Cornerstone Program marks the 11th cohort and is accepting applications. The theme of this year's program is “Strengths-based Leadership,” focusing on UVA’s strategic goals to empower participants to make a positive difference at UVA, for themselves, and for those they lead — formally or informally. Nominate and learn more. Questions? Contact Carolyn Cullen, CPCC, CPRC, Director, Talent Management, UVA Human Resources. 

AAPL Welcomes Peter Paige, MD, to its Board of Directors 

The American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL) — an organization for physician leadership education and advocacy — announced the election of Chief Clinical Officer Peter Paige, MD, to its Board of Directors. Dr. Paige joins an esteemed group of healthcare leaders who bring a wealth of experience, innovation, and dedication to advancing the organization's mission of transforming healthcare through physician leadership. Read more on Medicine in Motion. Congratulations, Dr. Paige! 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati’s research showing an HIV drug improves vision in patients with a common diabetes complication is featured across Virginia, on TV stations nationally, by the NIH, and in Yahoo and Reuters. 

Patient Care 

• Kathleen Haden, NP, participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing melanoma and skin cancer awareness month. 
• Dr. John Saxon is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new heart valve system that UVA Health was the first in Virginia to implant. 
• Dr. Andrew Wolf talks with Consumer Reports about when to get screened for colorectal cancer. 
• Dr. Heather Ferris talks with Medscape about whether point-of-care A1c testing is the best screening option for diabetes. 
• Dr. Sidhartha Pani and Dr. Madhu Misra co-write an article for Medscape on bone metabolism in celiac disease. 

Research 

• C-Ville Weekly’s cover story on research breakthroughs at UVA Health highlight the work of Dr. Richard Hall, Dr. John Lukens, Dr. Richard Price, Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills, Dr. Jeffrey Wilson, and Dr. Jie Sun as well as the Paul and Dianne Manning Institute of Biotechnology. 
• The University of Virginia magazine talks with Dr. Edward Egelman, Dr. William Petri, Dr. William Knaus, Dr. Mariano Garcia-Blanco, and Dr. Audrey Brown about the impact of federal research funding uncertainty. 
• Dr. Richard Price is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally about focused ultrasound’s potential as a treatment option for cerebral cavernous malformations. 
• Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills talks with The Scientist about his discovery of alpha-gal syndrome, which causes a red-meat allergy. 
• Dr. Josh Colston’s research into housing quality and disease prevention is featured in the University of Virginia magazine. 

Community 

• The stations of the Charlottesville Media Group highlight the impact and need for expansion at UVA Health Children’s during their 10th annual Cares for Kids Radiothon. 

Education 

• Dr. Scott Hollenbeck talks with Medscape about what medical students need to know about specializing in plastic surgery. 

Human Resources 

Spring PTO Cash Out  

• University Medical Center team members: If your PTO balance is over 40 hours as of May 25, you may request a PTO cash out between now and June 9. The June 14 paycheck will include the cash out payments. For details and step-by-step instructions on how to request PTO cash out, please refer to the May 29 email from UVA Payroll.   
• UPG team members: The PTO cash out window is open until June 8. Check your PTO balances by clicking on Absence Balance in Workday and selecting 5/24/25 in the “As Of” field. 

Happenings 

Take a Moment for Yourself: Color Your Stress Away With UVA Print 

UVA Print has proudly supported the health system’s printing needs for many years and, this May, they're joining the conversation around mental health awareness. To encourage a little self-care during your busy day, they have created a free, stress-relief coloring postcard — perfect for a quick mental break. Stop by the West Complex copy center (from lobby, turn left) to pick one up and take a few mindful minutes just for you — because a little color can go a long way. (While supplies last.)  

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

FEAP | Braving the Arena: Leading Ourselves With Empathy, Self-Compassion, and Courage 

Tuesday, June 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Learn strategies — based on best-selling author Brené Brown’s groundbreaking research — to enhance your emotional awareness, resilience, connection, and growth. Reward-eligible. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation 

‘I Love You All So Much!’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues  

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

• "I commend Brianna for her friendly, yet efficient, way of completing her assessment. As a patient, I particularly appreciated her clear, precise, and direct instructions as she took me through the steps of the assessment. In her process, she did not assume that I — as a patient — knew exactly what the next steps in her process were, and so her direction was most helpful.” 
• "Everything was great. I want to give recognition to Tabatha and Alysha. (I think that's how she spells it.) They were amazing. Pre-procedure — even trusting my doc completely — can be kinda stressful, but Tabatha and Alysha had my wife and me totally relaxed, laughing (probably too loudly). It was like hanging out with a couple of friends.” 
• "Jonathan was so good. He kept checking on me to make sure I was good and comfortable and didn't need anything. If I had questions, he had answers; if he didn't, he would go find them and come back and let me know what was going on and the next steps. Thank you, Jonathan, for making me feel comfortable — and the staff as well: thank you all so much.” 
• "Thank you so much for saving my life! I love you all so much! God couldn't have put me with better people.” 

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

Previous Updates

Wednesday, May 28

Apply Now to Be an Epic Super User 

Deadline: Friday, June 13 | Are you passionate about supporting your team and enhancing patient care through Epic optimization? The Epic Training Super User Program is looking for dedicated team members to serve as trusted resources and leaders within their units. Super Users are essential members of the Health Information Technology (HIT) program who bridge the gap between frontline staff, training, and clinical informatics. They are nominated by their manager, director, or peers based on their professionalism, teamwork, and willingness to go the extra mile. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Operations 

West Complex Main Entrance Parking Lot Closure 

May 31-June 1 | As part of the West Complex-Davis Wing rooftop unit replacement project, the West Complex main entrance and parking lot will be closed from Saturday, May 31, at 4 a.m., through Sunday, June 1, at 6 p.m. During this time, a temporary entrance will be available on Hospital Drive to ensure continued access for patients and team members. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time for arrival during this period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 

Update Regarding Measles Exposure 

UVA Health recently provided care to a pediatric patient who was later confirmed to have measles. Operational updates: 

• To ensure proper screening and minimize further risk, online scheduling for same-day appointments has been temporarily suspended. This helps ensure that all patients are appropriately evaluated before arriving in person. 
• UVA Pharmacies offer vaccines by appointment Monday-Friday. To schedule an appointment, please direct patients to visit MyChart or call 434.982.4VAX. 
• Finally, as a reminder, UVA Health’s vaccination policy requires all team members to be fully vaccinated against measles, or have an approved exemption, as a condition of employment. Contact Employee Health at EmployeeHealth@uvahealth.org or 434.924.2013. 

Thank you for continuing to uphold the safety of our community. For more information, visit the Measles FAQ on UVAHealth.com. 

Safety and Security Update 

At University Medical Center, we're reinforcing our culture of safety with a focus on trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. Our systemwide initiatives are designed to protect patients, team members, and visitors while fostering an environment where healing and professional growth can flourish. Key efforts include enhancing access control with a shift to role-based access, expanding our security camera network, and strengthening protocols around interactions with correctional and law enforcement authorities.

We're also investing in both on-Grounds and off-site safety — with increased security staffing, improved emergency planning, and enhanced training. New developments include a Visitor Management System launching next fiscal year and a covert weapons detection system planned for FY26. These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a secure and welcoming space for all.

Click here for more details on what’s ahead and how you can support a safer UVA Health. 

New Parking FAQs Website Now Available 

Have parking questions? We've got answers! A new, easy-to-use parking FAQs website just for UVA Health team members has launched. Wondering where to park, how to get a permit, or where to find UTS bus routes and schedules? Visit the site. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Get to Know the BERT Team 

This Mental Health Awareness Month — in her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, gets to know better the Behavioral Emergency Response Team (BERT) at University Medical Center. Read more. 

Apply: The Cornerstone Program 

Deadline: Monday, June 2 | The 2025-2026 season of The Cornerstone Program marks the 11th cohort of the program and is accepting applications. The theme of this year's program is “Strengths-based Leadership,” focusing on UVA’s strategic goals to empower participants to make a positive difference at UVA, for themselves, and for those they lead, formally or informally. Nominate and learn more. Questions? Contact Carolyn Cullen, CPCC, CPRC, Director, Talent Management, UVA Human Resources. 

Re-Organization – Office of the EVP for Health Affairs 

From Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Interim Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Henry B. Mulholland Professor of Medicine: “I am writing with a few organizational announcements specific to my role as interim Executive Vice President for Health Affairs. Over the past several months, it has been made clear that there is a desire for increased transparency across the operations of the health system as well as increased accessibility to the leadership team.” Chad Hoyt, MD, will assume the role of Senior Advisor to the EVP for Health Affairs, and Stacey Gearhart will expand her role by serving as Office Manager, Office of the EVP for Health Affairs. Read more on KnowledgeLink. 

University Medical Center Survey: Leadership Is Listening 

Survey closes Monday, June 30 | University Medical Center team members are encouraged to take this one-minute survey to share with leadership what matters most to you. At the end of the survey, enter a drawing for the UVA Health swag of your choice. Options include UVA Health T-shirts, ball caps, duffel bags, sling bags, and much more. One in 20 people will win. Thank you for taking the time to let us know about your work as a UVA Health team member! 

New Edition of ASPIRE 

The latest edition of ASPIRE, the quarterly printed newsletter designed to inform team members and patients about the UVA ASPIRE values and how we live them, has hit the stands! In this issue, you’ll read about the Mobile Care Unit, preceptors, delivering critical care, a national award for quality care and research, thoughts from Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, interim Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, and more.  

Please feel free to place issues in your unit and share them with patients. Don’t forget to grab a copy for yourself! Can’t get a physical copy? Check out the online version. 

Happenings 

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Thursday, June 5 | 8-11 a.m. 
• Wednesday, June 11 | 7-10 a.m. 
• Tuesday, June 17 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Friday, June 27 | 9 a.m.-noon 

3rd Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety (QI/PS) Showcase  

Tuesday, June 10 | 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | Recognizing local improvements in QI/PS from all disciplines. Schedule:  

• 11:30-11:55 a.m. | Poster viewing 
• 11:55 a.m.-1 p.m. | Oral presentations 
• 1-1:30 p.m. | Keynote speaker, Louise Knabe — an early member of the leadership team of surgeon and author Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, for eight years with Ariadne Labs — will share how she helped to shape the lab’s solution development methodology and build out and implement medical quality improvement solutions around the globe. 

FEAP | Braving the Arena: Leading Ourselves With Empathy, Self-Compassion, and Courage  

Tuesday, June 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Learn strategies — based on best-selling author Brené Brown’s groundbreaking research — to enhance your emotional awareness, resilience, connection, and growth. Reward-eligible. Learn more and register. 

17th Annual Therapeutic Apheresis Academy 

Oct. 2-4 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | An immersive two-and-a-half-day, multidisciplinary program designed to foster interprofessional collaboration through innovative teaching approaches. UVA faculty and staff: take advantage of the special discounted rate of $315 by signing in with your UVA computing ID to register. Offer available through Aug. 15. Details and registration. Questions? Contact: Monica McCommon, CMP. 

Appreciation 

Shout Out to Our Researchers! 

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

• Better Ovarian Cancer Treatment | Microbiome insights from Melanie Rutkowski, PhD, and her team explain the failure of immune checkpoint therapy for ovarian cancer and could transform the unsuccessful approach into a lifesaving treatment. 
• Reversing Hair Loss | A surprising discovery from Lu Q. Le, MD, PhD, and colleagues is transforming our understanding of hair growth and could set the stage for new approaches to cure hair loss. 
• Preventing Postpartum Depression | Research from Jennifer Payne, MD, and collaborators could lead to a blood test to identify women at risk and possibly even to a preventive treatment. 
• Housing’s Role in Disease | Josh Colston, PhD, and collaborators across UVA have created a powerful computer model mapping the quality of housing construction in low- and middle-income countries that will help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. 
• Putting Cold Sores on Ice | Scientists have a new target to prevent cold sores after Anna Cliffe, PhD, and her team discovered an unexpected way the herpes virus re-activates in the body. The finding also could have important implications for genital herpes caused by the same virus. 

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! 

Friday, May 23

UVA Health University Medical Center Named to Newsweek’s ‘America’s Best Maternity Hospitals’ List 

Newsweek has honored UVA Health University Medical Center on its list of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals for its high quality care of mothers and newborns.  

This is the sixth consecutive year that Newsweek has recognized the hospital as one of the nation’s best places to receive pregnancy care, deliver a baby, and provide care and support for families once a baby is born. In 2024, 2,415 babies were delivered at UVA Health University Medical Center. 

UVA Health University Medical Center was among just 182 hospitals nationally that earned the publication’s highest rating — five ribbons — for maternity care. Read more on Connect. 

Operations 

Impacts of Memorial Day 

Monday, May 26 

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed. 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications: 
  • University Transit Service bus and the Health System Fontaine and Northridge shuttle service will not operate Monday, May 26. 
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. 
  • UtoCar will operate normally. 
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Monday, May 26. 
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Tuesday, May 27. 
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Monday: 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe 
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500 
  • Orthopedic Center Ivy Road 
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe 
  • West Complex Cafe 
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Monday, May 26. It will resume Wednesday, May 28. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Wednesday, May 28 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Memorial Day impacts Central Clinical Orientation. All orientation days shift by one, including Week 2. Please visit Orientation Planning Resources - Nursing Center for Excellence for more holiday adjustment information. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Clinical Leader. 

West Complex Main Entrance Parking Lot Closure 

May 31-June 1 | As part of the West Complex-Davis Wing rooftop unit replacement project, the West Complex main entrance and parking lot will be closed from Saturday, May 31, at 4 a.m., through Sunday, June 1, at 6 p.m. During this time, a temporary entrance will be available on Hospital Drive to ensure continued access for patients and team members. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time for arrival during this period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 

Apply Now to Be an Epic Super User  

Deadline: Friday, June 13 | Are you passionate about supporting your team and enhancing patient care through Epic optimization? The Epic Training Super User Program is looking for dedicated team members to serve as trusted resources and leaders within their units. Super Users are essential members of the Health Information Technology (HIT) program who bridge the gap between frontline staff, training, and clinical informatics. They are nominated by their manager, director, or peers based on their professionalism, teamwork, and willingness to go the extra mile. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Safety and Security Update 

At University Medical Center, we're reinforcing our culture of safety with a focus on trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. Our systemwide initiatives are designed to protect patients, team members, and visitors while fostering an environment where healing and professional growth can flourish. Key efforts include enhancing access control with a shift to role-based access, expanding our security camera network, and strengthening protocols around interactions with correctional and law enforcement authorities. 

We're also investing in both on-Grounds and off-site safety — with increased security staffing, improved emergency planning, and enhanced training. New developments include a Visitor Management System launching next fiscal year and a covert weapons detection system planned for FY26. These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a secure and welcoming space for all. 

Click here for more details on what’s ahead and how you can support a safer UVA Health. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• The announcement of Stephanie Schnittger as UVA Health’s new Chief Financial Officer is featured locally, in Virginia Business, and in Becker’s Hospital Review. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Shayan Moosa participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing brain cancer. 
• Lois Shepherd, a UVA bioethicist and law professor, talks with the Associated Press about the case of a pregnant woman in Georgia who is brain dead and being kept on life support. 
• Dr. Chris Holstege talks with Bloomberg about the health risks of a common over-the-counter medication for urinary tract infections. 
• Dr. Colin Derdeyn is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing University Medical Center’s expanded MRI suite. 
• Dana Schroeder, Outreach and Engagement Manager, UVA Office for Sustainability, is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the donation of balloons from UVA Final Exercises to UVA Health Children’s. 
• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the dangers of tianeptine. 

Research 

• Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati’s research showing HIV drugs could prevent Alzheimer’s continues to receive strong national coverage, including Fox News, Yahoo, and Medscape. 
• Dr. Jonathan Crowe is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing an app that can predict heart attacks and strokes. 
• Dr. Anna Cliffe talks with the South China Morning Post about her cold sores research. 
• Dr. Catherine Varney talks with Healthline about weight loss pills. 
• Dr. Lu Le talks with Earth.com about his research into restoring hair growth. 
• Dr. Laurie Archbald-Pannone talks with WTOP (DC news radio) about the health benefits of avoiding sugary drinks. 

Community 

• Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development for UVA Health Children’s, is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing this week’s UVA Health Children’s radiothon. 

Education 

• Dr. Andrew Parsons talks with AAMC News about training medical students to use AI. 
• Dr. Kirsten Greene is featured across Virginia discussing prostate cancer in the wake of former President Biden’s diagnosis. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, May 28 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

Take a Moment for Yourself: Color Your Stress Away With UVA Print 

UVA Print has proudly supported the health system’s printing needs for many years and, this May, they're joining the conversation around mental health awareness. To encourage a little self-care during your busy day, they have created a free, stress-relief coloring postcard — perfect for a quick mental break. Stop by the West Complex copy center (from lobby, turn left) to pick one up and take a few mindful minutes just for you — because a little color can go a long way. (While supplies last.) 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

FEAP Virtual Walk and Talk With LaBarron 

Wednesday, May 28 | noon-12:24 p.m. | Zoom | Join LaBarron Burwell — a seasoned management consultant specializing in wellness and well-being programming — for a special, interactive session in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, designed to get you moving while nurturing your mind and spirit. Learn more. 

Olivia’s Light: Pediatric Rare Disease Conference — Keeping Genetics Top of Mind 

June 9-10 | UVA Student Health and Wellness, 550 Brandon Ave. | Join leading experts, parents, and industry professionals at this interactive conference aimed at improving patient care for children and families impacted by a rare disease. Focuses on genetic testing, prenatal and neonatal red flags, ethical considerations, communication strategies, and patient-centered solutions. Registration deadline: May 27. Sponsored by UVA Health Continuing Education. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘A Rock Star!’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• "Jennifer Perry, the technician who performed the procedure, was respectful, gentle, knowledgeable, and easy to approach with my question. She also reassured me about everything that may or may not happen as a follow-up. I have requested Jennifer for 2026. Please recognize her outstanding qualities in her profession! She's a rock star!”  
• "Reagan was the best nurse! She explained everything to my daughter because she was very nervous. This was my daughter's first time in the hospital and Reagan made it a calm and easy experience. She definitely deserves recognition!” 
• "I am an older man who has had experiences with many doctors. Most have been excellent. Dr. Gaughan is at the top of my list. She listens better than most. She is as smart and knowledgeable as any. What puts her over the top is her personality and temperament. She also heads up an incredible team of a PA, NP, and RN. My wife and I consider me to be the luckiest person ever diagnosed with cancer. It's a horrible disease, but it is really much easier with a team like Dr. Gaughan's. Did I mention that they have stabilized my disease for two years?! I can't begin to list the wonderful family and personal moments I have enjoyed during those two years. Tina Turner had a song for the Gaughan team. It was called, ‘Simply the Best.’” 

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

Wednesday, May 21

UVA Health University Medical Center Earns Nation’s Highest Nursing Honor 

UVA Health University Medical Center has again earned Magnet® recognition — the highest national honor for nursing practice — from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for delivering high quality, collaborative, and innovative care. Fewer than 10% of U.S. hospitals have received Magnet recognition. Watch as the news is announced in a live video call. 

“This is a well-earned, well-deserved honor for our nursing team at UVA Health University Medical Center,” says Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Acting Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, University of Virginia. “In a comprehensive fashion, our nurses demonstrated the high standards they consistently and tirelessly uphold in serving our patients.” 

The lead Magnet appraiser told UVA Health nursing leaders that the excellence at University Medical Center was unsurpassed in 13 years serving as an appraiser. 

“Our nurses provide outstanding care every day for our patients and their families,” says UVA Health University Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE. 

“I was so proud to see our teams connect with the Magnet appraisers and demonstrate that we provide exemplary care, have outstanding nurses all across UVA Health, and are deserving of Magnet recognition.” says UVA Health University Medical Center Chief Nursing Officer Kathy Baker, PhD, RN, NE-BC, FAAN. Read more and see the photos on Connect. 

Free Coffee Magnet® Celebration for UVA Health Team Members Displaying ID Badges 

Thursday, May 22, | Higher Grounds East, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Higher Grounds West, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. | UVA Health team members can savor the University Medical Center Magnet® redesignation with a cup of free java! Display your UVA Health ID badge to get one free, hot or iced coffee, cream, and sugar at selected tables set up next to Higher Grounds East, and at the counter at Higher Grounds West. If taking cups back to a unit, there is a four-cup limit. (Please note, requests such as other flavorings, espresso, etc., only will be available for purchase by joining the line to the Higher Grounds kiosks). Celebration hosted by Nursing Professional Governance Organization. 

Operations 

Impacts of Memorial Day 

Monday, May 26  

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed.  
• Team Member Gym will be closed.  
• Parking and Transportation Modifications:  
  • University Transit Service bus and the Health System Fontaine and Northridge shuttle service will not operate Monday, May 26.  
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. 
  • UtoCar will operate normally.  
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) Monday, May 26.  
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Tuesday, May 27.  
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Monday:  
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Outtakes Cafe  
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500   
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road  
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe  
  • West Complex Cafe 
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Monday, May 26. It will resume Wednesday, May 28. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, May 28 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

Cares for Kids Radiothon 

May 21-22 | Hosted by Charlottesville Media Group, the Cares for Kids Radiothon is an annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event benefiting UVA Health Children’s. Tune in to WINA, 3WV, Z95, The Corner, or C-Ville Country to hear inspiring stories from our patient families, child life specialists, and community members. Those five stations will ask the community to "Give to Inspire Hope" for our smallest patients and their families.      

• Volunteer | Live phone bank volunteers are needed. Sign up for a session (May 21 or 22, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.).     
• Ways to give | Call the volunteer-led phone bank at 434.982.HOPE (4673), text UVAKIDS to 51555, or donate here. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Donate Blood in Honor of National EMS Week 

Thursday, May 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of National EMS Week (May 18-24), please consider rolling up your sleeve and donating blood to honor and thank emergency services personnel. For appointments contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern and — when you donate in May — you’ll be entered for a chance to win an American Adventure. Details. 

VHHA IHI Open School Quality and Patient Safety Certificate Program 

Registration deadline: Friday, May 23 | Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) Center for Healthcare Excellence is offering the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School Certificate Program in Quality and Patient Safety. Virginia healthcare professionals looking to gain quality and patient safety improvement knowledge are invited to join. Details can be found on the flyer or on the website. Register. Questions? Contact Kristie Burnette. 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

FEAP Virtual Walk and Talk With LaBarron 

Wednesday, May 28 | noon-12:24 p.m. | Zoom | Join LaBarron Burwell — a seasoned management consultant specializing in wellness and well-being programming — for a special, interactive session in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, designed to get you moving while nurturing your mind and spirit. Learn more. 

2025 UVA Health Aortic Symposium 

Saturday, May 31 | 7 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center and Zoom | Register | This symposium brings together UVA Health’s dedicated experts in cardiovascular disease to share insights on current trends, challenges, and emerging therapies in vascular and endovascular surgery. If you are involved in the care of patients with aortic disease or are interested in the latest advancements in cardiovascular care, you are encouraged to join this informative day of engaging presentations and collaborative learning. Diagnosis and treatment paradigms for aortic and structural heart diseases — including medical, endovascular, surgical, and hybrid options — will be presented. 

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

Olivia’s Light: Pediatric Rare Disease Conference — Keeping Genetics Top of Mind 

June 9-10 | UVA Student Health and Wellness, 550 Brandon Ave. | Join leading experts, parents, and industry professionals at this interactive conference aimed at improving patient care for children and families impacted by a rare disease. Focuses on genetic testing, prenatal and neonatal red flags, ethical considerations, communication strategies, and patient-centered solutions. Registration deadline: May 27. Sponsored by UVA Health Continuing Education. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘Remarkable Dedication’: UVA Health University Medical Center FY25 Q3 Patient Experience Award Winners 

Each quarter, the UVA Health University Medical Center Patient Experience Office honors two departments per survey service type: Top Performer and Most Improved. These awards celebrate exceptional commitment to enhancing the patient experience through compassionate care and meaningful connection — key elements in building trust and promoting overall well-being. Q3 awardees include: 

• Medical Practice, Top Performer: Zion Crossroads Cardiology 
• Medical Practice, Most Improved: Maternal and Fetal Medicine Clinic 
• Outpatient Services, Top Performer: Mobile Mammography 
• Outpatient Services, Most Improved: Primary Care EEG 
• Ambulatory Surgery, Top Performer: Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) Periop 
• Ambulatory Surgery, Most Improved: Electrophysiology 
• Outpatient Rehabilitation, Top Performer and Most Improved: OCIR Occupational Therapy 
• Emergency Department: Top Performer 
• Dental Services, Top Performer: JPA Dentistry 
• Outpatient Behavioral Health, Most Improved: Northridge Adult Psychiatry 
• Home Health Care, Top Performer: Continuum 

The Patient Experience Office delivered the awards, along with congratulations and some treats, to the winning teams. We commend this quarter’s winners for their remarkable dedication and continuous efforts to deliver an exceptional patient experience! Read more and see photos on Connect. 

Monday, May 19

Magnet® Call Invite 

Monday, May 19 | Please mark your calendar for an event you won’t want to miss! We will receive a call at noon from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) announcing the results of our University Medical Center Magnet® re-designation journey. All team members are invited to attend. You can either:  

• Join in person at Sandridge Auditorium, McKim Hall: please arrive by 11:45 a.m.  
• Join the Zoom livestream: you can join as early as 11:50 a.m.   

Whether in person or online, we hope you’ll join us to hear the news live together! 

Operations 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

New Parking FAQs Website Now Available 

Have parking questions? We've got answers! A new, easy-to-use parking FAQs website site just for UVA Health team members has launched. Wondering where to park, how to get a permit, or where to find UTS bus routes and schedules? Visit the site. 

Human Resources 

FY25 Year-End Review for UVA Health 

Reminder: FY25 UVA Health manager evaluations are due on June 30. Managers should hold their 1:1s and complete the "Acknowledgement" step by this date. Training is available in Workday Learning (five-minute, asynchronous) for team members and leaders to help with completing the performance review. Resources and additional details about the FY25 performance process can be found on the UVA Health Performance website. 

Happenings 

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life 

Tuesday, May 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 or take what you need monthly. 

Cares for Kids Radiothon 

May 21-22 | Hosted by Charlottesville Media Group, the Cares for Kids Radiothon is an annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event benefiting UVA Health Children’s. Tune in to WINA, 3WV, Z95, The Corner, or C-Ville Country to hear inspiring stories from our patient families, child life specialists, and community members. Those five stations will ask the community to "Give to Inspire Hope" for our smallest patients and their families.     

• Volunteer | Live phone bank volunteers are needed. Sign up for a session (May 21 or 22, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.).    
• Ways to give | Call the volunteer-led phone bank at 434.982.HOPE (4673), text UVAKIDS to 51555, or donate here. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Wednesday, May 21 | noon-3 p.m.     
• Monday, May 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Donate Blood in Honor of National EMS Week 

Thursday, May 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of National EMS Week (May 18-24), please consider rolling up your sleeve and donating blood to honor and thank emergency services personnel. For appointments contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert:Receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern and — when you donate in May — you’ll be entered for a chance to win an American Adventure. Details. 

VHHA IHI Open School Quality and Patient Safety Certificate Program 

Registration deadline: Friday, May 23 | Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) Center for Healthcare Excellence is offering the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School Certificate Program in Quality and Patient Safety. Virginia healthcare professionals looking to gain quality and patient safety improvement knowledge are invited to join. Details can be found on the flyer or on the website. Register. Questions? Contact Kristie Burnette. 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

FEAP Virtual Walk and Talk With LaBarron 

Wednesday, May 28 | noon-12:24 p.m. | Zoom | Join LaBarron Burwell — a seasoned management consultant specializing in wellness and well-being programming — for a special, interactive session in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, designed to get you moving while nurturing your mind and spirit. Learn more. 

Appreciation 

Thank You, Night Shift! 

The Night Shift Committee (NSC) — part of UVA Health University Medical Center’s Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) — recently delivered gratitude to Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) team members!  

NSC is led by Chair Sammy Fleming, BSN, CCRN, RN, and Vice Chair Katherine Brady, BSN, RN, CEN. The committee came up with the idea to gather compliments and signatures from dozens of night shift team members on a “huge” Thank You card expressing appreciation for super service, increased food options such as more vegan options, heat-and-eat meals, treats, salads-to-go, and salad bar — and extended hours — in the retail café in the last two years since the pandemic ended. 

Night shift team members include nurses, residents, attendings, pharmacy, social workers, health unit coordinators, environmental services, and more. 

“The variety of options, including vegan choices, was identified as something that makes it easier to choose healthy food at night. Their hard work is appreciated!” says Fleming.

“The cafeteria is important to keep our team members fueled so we can show up for our patients each and every shift. It was great to see everyone's reaction to showing gratitude for the cafeteria," describes Brady.  

“One of the focuses of the committee is recognition of any team member accomplishments on night shift. Seeing the group shift their focus to recognizing the FNS made me smile!” says Erika M. Grant, MSN, RN, CCRN, CNML, Nursing Professional Governance Clinical Leader, Nursing Governance Office, who delivered the card. 

Friday, May 16

Experienced Healthcare Finance Leader Named UVA Health’s Chief Financial Officer 

UVA Health has named Stephanie Schnittger, a longtime healthcare finance leader at health systems across the mid-Atlantic, as UVA Health’s Chief Financial Officer. Schnittger will oversee all corporate finance functions across the health system, including budgeting and planning for major construction projects.  

“Stephanie brings great energy and talent, along with a wealth of experience in healthcare finance, as she becomes our next chief financial officer,” said Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Acting Executive Vice President for Health Affairs at the University of Virginia. “She will ensure we continue to have the strong financial base we need to carry out our missions of providing the highest quality patient care, making research discoveries that improve the human condition, training the next generation of healthcare workers, and serving our communities.” Read more. 

Magnet® Call Invite 

Monday, May 19 | Please mark your calendar for an event you won’t want to miss! We will receive a call at noon from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) announcing the results of our University Medical Center Magnet® re-designation journey. All team members are invited to attend. You can either: 

• Join in person at Sandridge Auditorium, McKim Hall: please arrive by 11:45 a.m. 
• Join the Zoom livestream: you can join as early as 11:50 a.m.  

Whether in person or online, we hope you’ll join us to hear the news live together! 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Reopens Sunday, May 18 | Facilities Management is replacing doors in the Lee Street Garage. This will occur on Level 5 (D) and these doors will be closed off during replacement. A transport cart will be available to help patients, and signage will be placed to assist with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati’s research showing HIV drugs could prevent Alzheimer’s is featured in hundreds of outlets worldwide, including U.S. News & World Report, New York Post, and The Express. 

Patient Care 

• ECMO Services Manager Brian Clouse participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing ECMO. 
• Chief Information and Technology Officer Robin Parkin talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about UVA Health’s best IT investment. 
• Dr. Robert Shin talks with Everyday Health about how to be a friend to someone with multiple sclerosis. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights the paper pill bottles now in use at select UVA Health Pharmacy locations. 
• Nicole Blake, RN, and Nurse Manager Kyle Howard are featured locally and in Roanoke about their journey from serving as travel nurses to becoming full-time UVA Health team members. 
• Dr. Kim Penberthy is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the mixed emotions that Mother’s Day can create. 

Research 

• Dr. Mark Esser talks with VPM (Richmond NPR) about plans for the Manning Institute of Biotechnology. 
• Dr. Fern Hauck is featured in USA Today and newspapers nationwide discussing cuts to the federal Safe to Sleep program. 
• Dr. Boris Kovatchev talks with Medscape about research and advances in treatment options for patients with diabetes. 
• Dr. Natasha Sheybani is featured in Yahoo and Virginia Mercury discussing her research into focused ultrasound to treat cancer. 
• Findings from a clinical trial led by Dr. Linda Duska into a potential ovarian cancer treatment are featured in MedPage Today. 
• Dr. Jennifer Payne talks with The Scientist about a potential blood test for postpartum depression. 

Community 

• WJLA (DC TV) previews a peanut butter drive taking place today at Prince William Medical Center. 

Education 

• Dr. Mo Nadkarni talks with Medscape about the best ways to talk with patients newly diagnosed with diabetes. 

Happenings 

Take a Moment for Yourself: Color Your Stress Away With UVA Print  

UVA Print has proudly supported the health system’s printing needs for many years and, this May, they're joining the conversation around mental health awareness. To encourage a little self-care during your busy day, they have created a free, stress-relief coloring postcard — perfect for a quick mental break. Stop by the West Complex copy center (from lobby, turn left) to pick one up and take a few mindful minutes just for you — because a little color can go a long way. (While supplies last.) 

Student Art at University Hospital 

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

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds: First Trimester Pregnancy, Ectopics, and the SRU Consensus Lexicon 

Monday, May 19 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Moss Auditorium | Zoom | UVA Radiology’s next installment of its Grand Rounds Series features speaker Aya Kamaya, MD, Professor of Radiology and Division Chief of Body Imaging, Stanford University. Objectives of the talk: to understand the rationale for why a first trimester pregnancy ultrasound lexicon is needed; to learn the new preferred terminology and definitions for first trimester pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, and ectopic pregnancy; and to review the criteria for early first trimester pregnancies. A reception will be held prior to the event at noon. Details. 

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life 

Tuesday, May 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 or take what you need monthly. 

Cares for Kids Radiothon 

May 21-22 | Hosted by Charlottesville Media Group, the Cares for Kids Radiothon is an annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event benefiting UVA Health Children’s. Tune in to WINA, 3WV, Z95, The Corner, or C-Ville Country to hear inspiring stories from our patient families, child life specialists, and community members. Those five stations will ask the community to "Give to Inspire Hope" for our smallest patients and their families.    

• Volunteer | Live phone bank volunteers are needed. Sign up for a session (May 21 or 22, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.).   
• Ways to give | Call the volunteer-led phone bank at 434.982.HOPE (4673), text UVAKIDS to 51555, or donate here. 

Donate Blood in Honor of National EMS Week 

Thursday, May 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of National EMS Week (May 18-24) please consider rolling up your sleeve and donating blood to honor and thank emergency services personnel. For appointments contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern and — when you donate in May — you’ll be entered for a chance to win an American Adventure. Details. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

FEAP Virtual Walk and Talk With LaBarron 

Wednesday, May 28 | noon-12:24 p.m. | Zoom | Join LaBarron Burwell — a seasoned management consultant specializing in wellness and well-being programming — for a special, interactive session in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, designed to get you moving while nurturing your mind and spirit. Learn more. 

Olivia’s Light: Pediatric Rare Disease Conference — Keeping Genetics Top of Mind 

June 9-10 | UVA Student Health and Wellness, 550 Brandon Ave. | Join leading experts, parents, and industry professionals at this interactive conference aimed at improving patient care for children and families impacted by a rare disease. Focuses on genetic testing, prenatal and neonatal red flags, ethical considerations, communication strategies, and patient-centered solutions. Registration deadline: May 27. Sponsored by UVA Health Continuing Education. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘Gentle, Knowledgeable, Compassionate, and Funny’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• "The team member, Isaac, took his time with me and even had me laughing/feeling a little more optimistic. I felt like I knew how to use my walking boot and like I was on the road to recovery. He was gentle, knowledgeable, compassionate, and funny.” 
• “Dr. Jennifer Kirby is a jewel of the highest value. I always look forward to my appointment with her. She is brilliant and works with me with patience, compassion, and expert problem solving. I know doctors are very busy and have other patients to see, however, Dr. Kirby never makes me feel rushed — even though she is always on time with me and is thorough.” 
• My son and I absolutely loved the doctor and nurse that treated him. Dr. Douglas Allen was probably one of the friendliest, down-to-earth doctors we've seen in quite some time. Not only did he explain things perfectly, but he made it easy even for my teenage son to understand. I will 100% recommend him to anyone who is looking for a pediatric cardiologist!” 

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

Wednesday, May 14

Geographic Co-localization Within University Medical Center  

From senior leadership: “As communicated last week, University Medical Center leadership has kicked off a series of initiatives aimed at advancing patient progression to better support care delivery and adapt to the growing demands of our patients.” 

"As part of this effort, we are announcing a series of unit moves across our University Hospital that will create closer proximity among patients with similar service needs and contribute to greater collaboration among teams. The moves were determined after an extensive review of our spaces. To arrive at bed totals, we assessed the average daily census over the most recent 12-month period and made assignments based on these data. This will allow us to match the bed footprint to service needs based on current data. In addition to bed space, we also are evaluating work areas for team members in an effort to provide ample space for charting and documentation.” Read more. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Reopens Sunday, May 18 | Facilities Management is replacing doors in the Lee Street Garage. This will occur on Level 5 (D) and these doors will be closed off during replacement. A transport cart will be available to help patients, and signage will be placed to assist with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

Windows 11 Upgrade for All PCs Across UVA Health 

UVA Health HIT is upgrading all devices from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as part of our commitment to providing the best tools and technology for enhanced productivity and security. With Microsoft retiring Windows 10 at the end of October, HIT is upgrading existing devices across the health system until the end of November.   

In most areas, the upgrade will be deployed to computers automatically and completed after business hours. For departments operating 24/7, the upgrade will be scheduled during slower shifts, affecting only a limited number of computers at a time. For areas where any computer downtime is not feasible, HIT will collaborate with stakeholders to minimize potential disruptions. To prepare, team members are encouraged to back up critical files to network locations like the F: drive or departmental folders. While no data loss is expected, this precaution ensures data safety in case of upgrade issues. For more details on interface changes, visit the HIT intranet site or refer to the ServiceNow article. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Get a Sneak Peek at Photos from Nurses Week  

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares some of the wonderful memories captured during Nurses Week. Read more. 

UVA Health Survey: Leadership Is Listening 

Survey closes Monday, June 30 | Take this one-minute survey to share with leadership what matters most to you. At the end of the survey, enter a drawing for the UVA Health swag of your choice. Options include UVA Health T-shirts, ball caps, duffel bags, sling bags, and much more. One in 20 people will win. Thank you for taking the time to let us know about your work as a UVA Health team member! 

Happenings 

Celebrating UVA Health Week 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations:   

• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 2955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Wear Blue: Critical Care Awareness Day 

Friday, May 16 | May Is National Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month. Critical care team members are encouraged to wear blue and “turn your ICU blue” on May 16. Others across UVA Health can support our critical care colleagues by wearing blue, too. Learn more. 

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds: First Trimester Pregnancy, Ectopics, and the SRU Consensus Lexicon 

Monday, May 19 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Moss Auditorium | Zoom | UVA Radiology’s next installment of its Grand Rounds Series features speaker Aya Kamaya, MD, Professor of Radiology and Division Chief of Body Imaging, Stanford University. Objectives of the talk: to understand the rationale for why a first trimester pregnancy ultrasound lexicon is needed; to learn the new preferred terminology and definitions for first trimester pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, and ectopic pregnancy; and to review the criteria for early first trimester pregnancies. A reception will be held prior to the event at noon. Details. 

Cares for Kids Radiothon 

May 21-22 | Hosted by Charlottesville Media Group, the Cares for Kids Radiothon is an annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event benefiting UVA Health Children’s. Tune in to WINA, 3WV, Z95, The Corner, or C-Ville Country to hear inspiring stories from our patient families, child life specialists, and community members. Those five stations will ask the community to "Give to Inspire Hope" for our smallest patients and their families.   

• Volunteer | Live phone bank volunteers are needed. Sign up for a session (May 21 or 22, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.).  
• Ways to give | Call the volunteer-led phone bank at 434.982.HOPE (4673), text UVAKIDS to 51555, or donate here. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Donate Blood in Honor of National EMS Week 

Thursday, May 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of National EMS Week (May 18-24) please consider rolling up your sleeve and donating blood to honor and thank emergency services personnel. For appointments contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern and — when you donate in May — you’ll be entered for a chance to win an American Adventure. Details. 

VHHA IHI Open School Quality and Patient Safety Certificate Program 

Registration deadline: Friday, May 23 | Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) Center for Healthcare Excellence is offering the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School Certificate Program in Quality and Patient Safety. Virginia healthcare professionals looking to gain quality and patient safety improvement knowledge are invited to join. Details can be found on the flyer or on the website. Register. Questions? Contact Kristie Burnette. 

2025 UVA Health Aortic Symposium 

Saturday, May 31 | 7 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center and Zoom | Register | This symposium brings together UVA Health’s dedicated experts in cardiovascular disease to share insights on current trends, challenges, and emerging therapies in vascular and endovascular surgery. If you are involved in the care of patients with aortic disease or are interested in the latest advancements in cardiovascular care, you are encouraged to join this informative day of engaging presentations and collaborative learning. Diagnosis and treatment paradigms for aortic and structural heart diseases — including medical, endovascular, surgical, and hybrid options — will be presented. 

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

Appreciation 

Marshall Receives Society of Critical Care in Medicine’s Grenvik Family Award for Ethics 

Mary Faith Marshall, PhD, FCCM, Director of the Center for Health Humanities and Ethics at UVA School of Medicine, has received the Society of Critical Care in Medicine (SSCM) Grenvik Family Award for Ethics. 

Dr. Marshall has chaired the SCCM Ethics Committee and the 19-member panel that recently developed the new SCCM Clinical Practice Guideline for Adult End-of-Life Care in the ICU. She was elected as a Fellow of the College of Critical Care Medicine in 1992. 

The Grevnik Family Award for Ethics award is given each year to recognize a SSCM member in good standing who has devoted significant efforts toward ethical problems in critical care. The award recognizes a person who promotes humanistic and ethical values in critical care.  

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Marshall! Read more on Medicine in Motion. 

Monday, May 12

Celebrating UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations:   

• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 2955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Reopens Sunday, May 18 | Facilities Management is replacing doors in the Lee Street Garage. This will occur on Level 5 (D) and these doors will be closed off during replacement. A transport cart will be available to help patients, and signage will be placed to assist with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

Happenings 

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

Through Monday, May 12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Throughout the week, the Battle Building and the South Tower will be lit up red as part of the American Nurses Association’s Nurses Light Up the Sky campaign, celebrating and bringing awareness to the power of the nursing profession. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:    

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file.   

UVA Health senior leadership recently sent a message celebrating National Nurses Week, writing, “To all UVA Health nurses: thank you for your unwavering commitment to putting patients first and for all you do to inspire hope and transform health across Virginia and beyond.” Read the message and watch the video on KnowledgeLink. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Tuesday, May 13 | 8-11 a.m.    
• Wednesday, May 14 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.    
• Wednesday, May 21 | noon-3 p.m.    
• Monday, May 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

UVA Bike Social 

Tuesday, May 13 | 3:30-5:30 p.m. | UVA Aquatic and Fitness Center | Whether you are already a bike commuter or just interested in learning more, join in support of Bike to Work Week. Includes music, lawn games, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, tabling, demo e-bikes, and more. Hosted by UVA Parking and Transportation, UVA Recreation, and UVA Office for Sustainability. Sponsored by Ben and Jerry’s. Details. 

Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series: Improving Patient Outcomes Using ERAS Protocols for Open AAAs 

Wednesday, May 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Primary Care Center, 2nd Floor Cardiology Clinic Room 2516 and Zoom | Join Behzad Farivar, MD, Co-director of the Aortic Center, as he discusses how patient outcomes can be improved with the use of Early Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols and guidelines. ERAS protocols have been used for patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs since May 2022. Dr. Farivar will provide information on what ERAS entails and specifically the advances in care and patient experience with these protocols. Please contact Bernie Ammons if you plan to attend in person, as seating is limited. (Meeting ID: 954 9930 3671 | Passcode: 31474600) 

Wear Blue: Critical Care Awareness Day 

Friday, May 16 | May is National Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month. Critical care team members are encouraged to wear blue and “turn your ICU blue” on May 16. Others across UVA Health can support our critical care colleagues by wearing blue, too. Learn more. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Appreciation 

Teddy Bear Clinic and Health Education Fair 

To help kids feel more comfortable visiting the doctor’s office and the hospital, UVA Health Children’s hosted a free Teddy Bear Clinic and Health Education Fair for families at the Boys and Girls Club in Charlottesville. 

The first 100 kids to arrive received free teddy bears! UVA Health Children’s pediatricians performed checkups on the bears, provided health education through fun activities, and sent the bears home with their new families. Other activities included: free books and helmets for kids; UVA Dance Team performance; UVA CavMan visit; food truck; and educational talks on screen time, early childhood literacy, and asthma. 

“The goal of the event was to normalize medical visits for children through play with their teddy bears in addition to having the opportunity to spend time together as a community. Based on this, the Teddy Bear Clinic and Health Education Fair was a great success! Thank you to all our volunteers and community organizations who made this event possible!” says Serwa Ertl, MD, UVA Health Children’s board-certified pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist. 

See TV news coverage. Thank you to UVA Health team members who are supporting our strategic plan by cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all. 

Friday, May 9

Celebrating UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations:  

• Sunday, May 11 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.  
• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m.  
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.  
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 2955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Operations 

Annual Planned Steam Outage 

Saturday, May 10 | 5 a.m.-midnight | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will be affected.  

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time.  
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, if any clinical operations are in progress that would require a delay in the planned outage.  
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825.  
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water.  
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room.  
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room.  
• Main operating room (OR) and Sterile Processing Department: only the following case classifications should proceed to the OR during the outage: Emergent Now, Urgent 2 Hours, and Urgent 6 Hours. We request surgeons to please hold any priority inpatient cases until Sunday, if safe to do so. 

Questions? Contact Nina Green, Associate Director, Health System Physical Plant.  

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement  

Saturday, May 10; reopens Sunday, May 18 | Facilities Management is replacing doors in the Lee Street Garage. This will occur on Level 5 (D) and these doors will be closed off during replacement. A transport cart will be available to help patients, and signage will be placed to assist with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Bruce Greyson and Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova talk with The New York Times about their research into near-death experiences. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Amna Sohail participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing stroke awareness month. 
• Foxnews.com highlights the paper pill bottles now in use at select UVA Health Pharmacy locations. 
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with Medscape about the challenges of getting approval from health insurers for obesity care. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review features Haymarket Medical Center and Prince William Medical Center among U.S. hospitals with the lowest C. diff rates. 
• Occupational Therapist Michael Vanhoy is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing UVA Health’s new adult wheelchair clinic.  
• Associate Chief External Affairs Officer Ross Snare is named to the Virginia Business Forty Under 40 list. 

Research 

• Dr. Melina Kibbe talks with medicalresearch.com about the challenges faced by surgeon-scientists. 
• Dr. Rachel Moon is featured on NPR stations nationwide discussing cuts to the federal Safe to Sleep program. 
• Dr. Jim Tucker is featured on NPR stations nationwide discussing his research into people’s memories of past lives. 
• Dr. Jennifer Kim Penberthy talks with U.S. News & World Report about the differences between hallucinations and delusions. 
• Dr. Timothy Showalter is featured on foxnews.com and Yahoo about a potential new prostate cancer test. 
• Dr. Scott Lim is featured in a MedPage Today story about a new aortic valve replacement platform. 

Community 

• Dr. Mae Furr and Dr. Serwa Ertl are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a teddy bear clinic hosted by UVA Health Children’s. 

Education 

• School of Nursing Professor Emily Evans talks with WVTF (Virginia NPR) about the need to better educate health professionals about emergency care for new moms. 

Happenings 

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

Through Monday, May 12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Throughout the week, the Battle Building and the South Tower will be lit up red as part of the American Nurses Association’s Nurses Light Up the Sky campaign, celebrating and bringing awareness to the power of the nursing profession. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:   

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file.  
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria  
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage  

UVA Health senior leadership recently sent a message celebrating National Nurses Week, writing, “To all UVA Health nurses: thank you for your unwavering commitment to putting patients first and for all you do to inspire hope and transform health across Virginia and beyond.” Read the message and watch the video on KnowledgeLink. 

Following the Flow of My Brushes: The Art of Anne Delatour Hopper 

Through Wednesday, May 14 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Following the Flow of My Brushes.” Pictured: “Mont Saint Michel,” oil on canvas. Stop by and check it out! 

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

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

Take a Moment for Yourself: Color Your Stress Away With UVA Print 

UVA Print has proudly supported the health system’s printing needs for many years and, this May, they're joining the conversation around mental health awareness. To encourage a little self-care during your busy day, they have created a free, stress-relief coloring postcard — perfect for a quick mental break. Stop by the West Complex copy center (from lobby, turn left) to pick one up and take a few mindful minutes just for you — because a little color can go a long way. (While supplies last.) 

UVA Bike Social 

Tuesday, May 13 | 3:30-5:30 p.m. | UVA Aquatic and Fitness Center (AFC) | Whether you are already a bike commuter or just interested in learning more, join in support of Bike to Work Week. Includes music, lawn games, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, tabling, demo e-bikes, and more. Hosted by UVA Parking and Transportation, UVA Recreation, and UVA Office for Sustainability. Sponsored by Ben and Jerry’s. Details. 

Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series: Improving Patient Outcomes Using ERAS Protocols for Open AAAs 

Wednesday, May 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Primary Care Center, 2nd Floor Cardiology Clinic Room 2516 and Zoom | Join Behzad Farivar, MD, Co-director of the Aortic Center, as he discusses how patient outcomes can be improved with the use of Early Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols and guidelines. ERAS protocols have been used for patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs since May 2022. Dr. Farivar will provide information on what ERAS entails and specifically the advances in care and patient experience with these protocols. Please contact Bernie Ammons if you plan to attend in person, as seating is limited. (Meeting ID: 954 9930 3671 | Passcode: 31474600) 

Wear Blue: Critical Care Awareness Day 

Friday, May 16 | May Is National Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month. Critical care team members are encouraged to wear blue and “turn your ICU blue” on May 16. Others across UVA Health can support our critical care colleagues by wearing blue, too. Learn more. 

Training Sessions: National Stop the Bleed Day 

Thursday, May 22 | 10-10:30 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Room 1 | National Stop the Bleed Day 2025 is a nationwide call to action encouraging everyone to learn how to control life-threatening bleeding and raise awareness about the Stop the Bleed campaign. This annual day serves as a reminder to get involved, get trained, and help prepare our communities for bleeding emergencies. To support this important initiative, Connie Clark, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Program, will be leading two free training sessions. Register. Let’s all raise our hands to Stop the Bleed at UVA Health! 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Olivia’s Light: Pediatric Rare Disease Conference — Keeping Genetics Top of Mind 

June 9-10 | UVA Student Health and Wellness, 550 Brandon Ave. | Join leading experts, parents, and industry professionals at this interactive conference aimed at improving patient care for children and families impacted by a rare disease. Focuses on genetic testing, prenatal and neonatal red flags, ethical considerations, communication strategies, and patient-centered solutions. Registration deadline: May 27. Sponsored by UVA Health Continuing Education. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘A Small Thing That Made a Big Difference’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• “Genuine care and concern for the patient stood out during this procedure. It was exceptional and I thank the entire team who were involved: Robin; Jody; N. Roberts, CRNA; Dr. Hosadurg; Dr. Maddi Smoot; and Maria. No problems after I returned home. Excellent care all around — thanks to UVA Health!” 
• “Dr. Barrick listens to all my problems, dental and alike. He solves most of them, too. I recommend Dr. Barrick to anyone and everyone who has a tooth! He is a perfectionist and that is exactly what you want in a practitioner. He listens, he's fun, and is extremely competent.” 
• “I just want to say: if this world had more people like Tracy Gibson, Financial Coordinator, the world would be a much better place.” 
• “Nurse Quincey was absolutely exceptional. From the moment I arrived, she made me feel comfortable, informed, and genuinely cared for. She was thorough, kind, and incredibly professional, answering every question with clarity and compassion. We even had fun choosing the music to listen to before my procedure — a small thing that made a big difference in easing my nerves and making me feel seen as a person, not just a patient. Quincey made sure I was fully prepared for my procedure with Nichole Brooks, and I truly appreciated her calming presence and expert care. UVA Health is lucky to have her.” 

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

Wednesday, May 7

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

Through Monday, May 12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Throughout the week, the Battle Building and the South Tower will be lit up red as part of the American Nurses Association’s Nurses Light Up the Sky campaign, celebrating and bringing awareness to the power of the nursing profession. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:  

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file. 
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria 
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage 

UVA Health senior leadership recently sent a message celebrating National Nurses Week, writing, “To all UVA Health nurses: thank you for your unwavering commitment to putting patients first and for all you do to inspire hope and transform health across Virginia and beyond.” Read the message and watch the video on KnowledgeLink. 

Operations 

Annual Planned Steam Outage 

Saturday, May 10 | 5 a.m.-midnight | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will be affected. 

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time. 
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, if any clinical operations are in progress that would require a delay in the planned outage. 
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825. 
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water. 
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room. 
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room. 

Questions? Contact Nina Green, Associate Director, Health System Physical Plant. 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Saturday, May 10; reopens Sunday, May 18 | Facilities Management is replacing doors in the Lee Street Garage. This will occur on Level 5 (D) and these doors will be closed off during replacement. A transport cart will be available to help patients, and signage will be placed to assist with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

Optimizing Patient Progression 

From University Medical Center senior leadership: “To address our growing patient needs, we write to update you on four key initiatives designed to optimize patient progression across our University Medical Center, resulting in more efficient operations for both our patients and the communities we serve. Building on this strong foundation, these initiatives will further enhance how we care for our patients and ensure more seamless, coordinated experiences. They represent the next chapter in our shared journey to deliver the highest quality care and will begin taking shape over the coming year, with initial conversations starting as early as next week.” Please review the summaries of the four key initiatives on KnowledgeLink. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include: 

• New Tracheostomy Decannulation and Post Decannulation Stoma Care Respiratory Therapy SOP 
• Updates to Fall Prevention for Adult and Pediatric Patients Guideline 
• Updates to Pregnancy Testing Before Receiving Ionizing Radiation 
• Updates to Specialty Bed Protocol Order 
• Updates to Advance Directives Medical Center Policy, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Here to Listen: Cornerstone Launches Team Member Survey 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, asks team members to take an engagement survey about workplace belonging and satisfaction. Read more. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Zoom | Take a 10-minute break to refresh your mind and body with this eight-week series. These quick, engaging, virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Learn more and see the full schedule. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

Thursday, May 8 | noon-1 p.m. | This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. Register. 

Next Week: UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations: 

• Sunday, May 11 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 
• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m. 
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Wear Blue: Critical Care Awareness Day 

Friday, May 16 | May Is National Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month. Critical care team members are encouraged to wear blue and “turn your ICU blue” on May 16. Others across UVA Health can support our critical care colleagues by wearing blue, too. Learn more. 

Cares for Kids Radiothon 

May 21-22 | Hosted by Charlottesville Media Group, the Cares for Kids Radiothon is an annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event benefiting UVA Health Children’s. Tune in to WINA, 3WV, Z95, The Corner, or C-Ville Country to hear inspiring stories from our patient families, child life specialists, and community members. Those five stations will ask the community to "Give to Inspire Hope" for our smallest patients and their families.  

• Volunteer | Live phone bank volunteers are needed. Sign up for a session (May 21 or 22, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.). 
• Ways to give | Call the volunteer-led phone bank at 434.982.HOPE (4673), text UVAKIDS to 51555, or donate here. 

VHHA IHI Open School Quality and Patient Safety Certificate Program 

Registration deadline: Friday, May 23 | Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) Center for Healthcare Excellence is offering the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School Certificate Program in Quality and Patient Safety. Virginia healthcare professionals looking to gain quality and patient safety improvement knowledge are invited to join. Details can be found on the flyer or on the website. Register. Questions? Contact Kristie Burnette. 

2025 UVA Health Aortic Symposium 

Saturday, May 31 | 7 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center and Zoom | Register | This symposium brings together UVA Health’s dedicated experts in cardiovascular disease to share insights on current trends, challenges, and emerging therapies in vascular and endovascular surgery. If you are involved in the care of patients with aortic disease or are interested in the latest advancements in cardiovascular care, you are encouraged to join this informative day of engaging presentations and collaborative learning. Diagnosis and treatment paradigms for aortic and structural heart diseases — including medical, endovascular, surgical, and hybrid options — will be presented. 

Appreciation 

Diaper Drive 

UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes reports a successful diaper drive during the recent Black Maternal Health Week. 

UVA Health team members donated 5,674 diapers and pull-ups — and 3,162 wipes — online and at drop-off locations at the Primary Care Center, Northridge, OB Academic Office, and across from Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. The items are being delivered to Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone | Charlottesville. 

“Lots of families in our communities are struggling to meet their basic needs,” says Jackie Martin, Director of Community Partnerships and Health Outcomes. “Both Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone are helping to fill that gap. We are happy to support them in this way and grateful for the partnership with UVA Health OB/GYN that led to such a successful diaper drive.” 

Thank you to all those who participated in the project! 

Monday, May 5

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

May 6-12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:   

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file.
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage

Read a message from leadership.  

Operations 

Annual Planned Steam Outage 

Saturday, May 10 | 5 a.m.-midnight | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will be affected.   

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time.   
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, if any clinical operations are in progress that would require a delay in the planned outage.   
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825.   
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water.   
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room.   
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room.    

Questions? Contact Nina Green, Associate Director, Health System Physical Plant. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include: 

• New Tracheostomy Decannulation and Post Decannulation Stoma Care Respiratory Therapy SOP 
• Updates to Fall Prevention for Adult and Pediatric Patients Guideline 
• Updates to Pregnancy Testing Before Receiving Ionizing Radiation 
• Updates to Specialty Bed Protocol Order 
• Updates to Advance Directives Medical Center Policy, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Human Resources 

FY25 Year-End Review for UVA Health 

Reminder: FY25 UVA Health self-evaluations were due to managers on April 30. FY26 goals should have been documented in the goals section of the evaluation. Manager evaluations and completed team member 1:1s are due on June 30. Training is available in Workday Learning (five-minute, asynchronous) for team members and leaders to help with completing the performance review. Resources and additional details about the FY25 performance process can be found on the UVA Health Performance website. 

Happenings 

Film Screening: American Delivery — Solving the Maternal Mortality Crisis in U.S. Healthcare 

Tuesday, May 6 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | McLeod Hall Auditorium | As part of its celebration of National Nurses Week (May 6-12), UVA School of Nursing offers this screening and a post-film panel discussion including several maternal health and nursing experts, moderated by Pamela Cipriano, PhD, RN, FAAN, President of the International Council of Nurses, two-term President of American Nurses Association, and dean emerita. Learn more. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

Thursday, May 8 | noon-1 p.m. | This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. Register. 

Coming Soon: UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations:   

• Sunday, May 11 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.   
• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Tuesday, May 13 | 8-11 a.m.   
• Wednesday, May 14 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.   
• Wednesday, May 21 | noon-3 p.m.   
• Monday, May 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series: Improving Patient Outcomes Using ERAS Protocols for Open AAAs 

Wednesday, May 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Primary Care Center, 2nd Floor Cardiology Clinic Room 2516 and Zoom | Join Behzad Farivar, MD, Co-director of the Aortic Center, as he discusses how patient outcomes can be improved with the use of Early Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols and guidelines. ERAS protocols have been used for patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs since May 2022. Dr. Farivar will provide information on what ERAS entails and specifically the advances in care and patient experience with these protocols. Please contact Bernie Ammons if you plan to attend in person, as seating is limited. (Meeting ID: 954 9930 3671 | Passcode: 31474600) 

Appreciation 

‘Inspiring and Enriching’ 

With a recent ribbon cutting, UVA Health unveiled Cancer Care Pantops and brightened the days of patients, caregivers, guests, and team members by displaying more than six dozen pieces of stellar art at 652 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 310, Charlottesville. 

Anne B. Brown, Arts Program Coordinator, UVA Health University Medical Center, led the months-long project to find, acquire, transport, and install 75 pieces throughout the 22,000 square feet which includes: 14 exam rooms, 25 infusion chairs (expanding to a total of 40 by the end of 2025), three workrooms — and a main lobby, registration area, staff break room, and hallways. “I love that the arts at UVA Health is taking on a level of importance that I’d only dreamed about!” 

See a sampling of the art — and read more about some of the artists, including those who’ve experienced UVA Health cancer care themselves or for a loved one and now are sharing their emotional stories on Connect. 

Friday, May 2

Celebrating National Patient Experience Week 

Through Friday, May 2 | National Patient Experience Week celebrates the healthcare professionals who make a difference in patient care every day. Each day of the week focuses on a different theme to enhance patient and team connections including active listening, personal connection, patient empowerment, team collaboration, and health literacy. Join in by sending Gratitude Grams, participating in daily challenges, answering a Pop Quiz for a chance to win a prize, and attending drop-in sessions. Learn more. 

Operations 

Annual Planned Steam Outage 

Saturday, May 10 | 5 a.m.-midnight | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will be affected.  

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time.  
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, if any clinical operations are in progress that would require a delay in the planned outage.  
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825.  
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water.  
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room.  
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room.   

Questions? Contact Nina Green, Associate Director, Health System Physical Plant. 

Next Epic Upgrade May 21 

Health Information Technology (HIT) will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Wednesday, May 21. These upgrades are critical to keeping our electronic health record system efficient, secure, and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare delivery. The upcoming upgrade to Epic version vFeb2025 has an estimated downtime of two hours, from 1 to 3 a.m. Most team members can expect to spend less than 30 minutes preparing for the changes, depending on their role. For information on top changes and to access training materials, visit Connect. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:   

• New Tracheostomy Decannulation and Post Decannulation Stoma Care Respiratory Therapy SOP  
• Updates to Fall Prevention for Adult and Pediatric Patients Guideline 
• Updates to Pregnancy Testing Before Receiving Ionizing Radiation 
• Updates to Specialty Bed Protocol Order 
• Updates to Advance Directives Medical Center Policy, and many more.  

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org 

Smishing Alert: Be Wary of Fraudulent Texts 

There has been a recent uptick in suspicious text messages being received by UVA Health team members. These messages usually convey a false sense of urgency and attempt to lure the recipient into clicking on a link or downloading an application or attachment. These smishing messages often contain alarming topics ranging from unpaid toll fees to undeliverable package shipments. If you receive a suspicious text message, do not reply, click on links, or share personal information. And remember, UVA Health leadership will never ask you for payment or personal information via text message. Learn how to identify, report, and protect yourself against smishing attacks.

New Wheelchair Clinic Open for Referrals 

UVA Health Adult Wheelchair Care | 545 Ray C. Hunt Dr., Suite 3200 | 434.243.3100 | Adult Wheelchair Care is now accepting both internal and outside referrals for patients to be seen at its Fontaine clinic. This new clinic offers expert evaluations by an occupational therapist to determine the most appropriate wheelchair and seating solutions for patients aged 18 and older. 

The clinic team conducts a detailed evaluation of the patient’s needs to recommend appropriate equipment, and works with suppliers to deliver, test, and train the patient on proper use and maintenance, and provide education on positioning and safety. It is the only specialty therapy clinic in our area solely dedicated to wheelchair and seating solutions for adults, addressing a vital care gap in the region. To refer a patient, in Epic create an Ambulatory Referral to Adult Occupational Therapy and select the UVA Adult Wheelchair Care location. 

Language Interpretation Services at UVA Health 

In support of our mission to provide excellent patient care, UVA Health offers professional language interpretation services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients and their families. In-person and contracted interpreters are available to ensure patients can fully understand their care and make informed decisions. As required by federal law and University Medical Center Policy 0156, UVA Health must offer these services at no cost and document them in Epic when provided or declined. Effective communication is essential for patient safety, trust, and positive health outcomes. 

Please remember that only certified interpreters may provide language interpretation — team members who speak a second language are not permitted to interpret — and family, friends, and minor children should not serve as interpreters. Team members interested in becoming certified medical language interpreters are encouraged to contact the Language Services Department at RLangServices@UVAHealth.org. 

Leadership 

Three UVA Health Community Medical Centers Receive ‘A’ Grades for The Leapfrog Group’s Spring 2025 Hospital Safety Grade 

UVA Health announced its three community medical centers in Culpeper, Haymarket, and Prince William received ‘A’ grades for The Leapfrog Group’s spring 2025 Hospital Safety Grade.  

“Every day, our teams show what it means to put patients first — with skill, compassion, and an unwavering focus on safety,” says Erik Shannon, CEO of UVA Health’s community medical centers and clinics in northern Virginia and Culpeper. “Their dedication drives our mission forward and reflects the heart of UVA Health’s 10-year strategic plan: delivering high quality care and exceptional experiences to every patient, in every community we serve.” Read more. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• University Medical Center is named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 100 academic medical centers to know. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Brian Wentworth participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing Donate Life Month and living organ donation. 
• University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton and Dr. Leigh Cantrell are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the opening of our new Pantops cancer center. 
• Chief Pharmacy Officer Danielle Griggs talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about plans for a central pharmacy service center. 
• Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing how lifestyle changes can help address menopause symptoms. 
• Dr. Laurie Archbald-Pannone talks with HuffPost about foods to avoid for longer, healthier lives.  
• In Becker’s Hospital Review Chief Administrative Officer Mary Frances Southerland shares with about the biggest questions for 2025. 

Research 

• Dr. Leigh Cantrell talks with WebMD for two video segments on cancer risk factors and cancer prevention. 
• On the Oprah Daily podcast, Dr. Bruce Greyson discusses near death experiences. 
• Dr. Christopher Kramer talks with Medscape about new insights into heart failure and type 2 diabetes. 
• Dr. Hui Li’s prostate cancer research is featured in MedPage Today. 
• Dr. Sidhartha Pani and Dr. Madhu Misra write an article for Medscape about bone health in inflammatory bowel disease. 
• Medscape spotlights research led by Dr. Ifrah Zawar into the risk factors for epilepsy in patients with cognitive decline. 

Community 

• Drug take-back events at UVA Health locations are featured in media outlets across Virginia. 

Education 

• Pediatrics resident Dr. Carly Pierson writes a post for the American Academy of Pediatrics blog on flu vaccine options for kids with a history of wheezing. 

Human Resources 

University Medical Center PTO Accrual Rate Change 

As part of our long-standing commitment to offer competitive benefits consistent with peer institutions, adjustments are coming to University Medical Center’s Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual Plan. Learn more. 

Happenings 

Free Skin Cancer Screening 

Saturday, May 3 | 8 a.m.-noon | UVA Health Primary Care Center Dermatology Clinic | Frequently in the sun? Have a mole that’s changed shape, size, or color? Get a free skin cancer screening by a UVA Health dermatologist and learn how to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer. Bring a baseball cap or visor to exchange for a new sun hat, while supplies last. Free parking is available in the 11th Street Garage. Sign up by calling 800.223.9173. 

UVA Health Orthopedics Community Event 

Saturday, May 3 | 9 a.m.-noon | UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Join the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery for this free, family friendly community event. Talk with providers and learn more about the services orthopedics offers including the seven clinics, physical therapy, walk-in injury care, imaging, and more. Join a meditation session led by Joshua Li, MD, PhD, followed by four provider talks on common orthopedic issues. Kids can take a unique tour of the operating room and explore some of the tools that surgeons use. Plus, enjoy face painting, games, crafts, and photos with UVA cheerleaders. Free donuts and coffee will be available from The Donut Kitchen. The access registration desk will be open for patients to schedule appointments and assist in signing up for MyChart. 

Senior Health and Wellness Expo 

Saturday, May 3 | 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Dr. | A one-stop shop for those who are age 50 or older. This expo features resource tables with information on nutrition, transportation, disease management, social connection, care management, care for the caregiver, and money management. Education sessions about wills, safety, and long-term care will be available. Try a 15-minute fitness class while visiting. Sponsored by UVA Health. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Teddy Bear Clinic and Health Education Fair 

Saturday, May 3 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Boys & Girls Club, 195 Lambs Lane | Join our UVA Health Children’s team for this fun and informative fair! Free and open to all families. Teddy bear clinics are a fun way to help kids feel less scared at the doctor’s office and hospital, and learn more about staying healthy. The first 100 kids to arrive will get free teddy bears, and our pediatricians will give them a check-up before they go to their new homes. Enjoy:   

• Free books for kids to take home.   
• Performances from the Virginia Dance Team.   
• CavMan visit from noon-1 p.m.   
• Food from the Chimm food truck, free for the first 100 attendees and then available for purchase.   
• Talks from our pediatricians on screen time and asthma. 

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

May 6-12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:  

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file.   
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria   
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage 

Film Screening: American Delivery — Solving the Maternal Mortality Crisis in U.S. Healthcare 

Tuesday, May 6 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | McLeod Hall Auditorium | As part of its celebration of National Nurses Week (May 6-12), UVA School of Nursing offers this screening and a post-film panel discussion including several maternal health and nursing experts, moderated by Pamela Cipriano, PhD, RN, FAAN, President of the International Council of Nurses, two-term President of American Nurses Association, and dean emerita. Learn more. 

Festival of Cultures 

Saturday, May 24 | noon-3 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Drive | A free, family-friendly, community event featuring a bounce house, face painting, sack race, sports physicals, health resource tables, music, food trucks, and cultural displays and entertainment. Sponsored by UVA Health and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Olivia’s Light: Pediatric Rare Disease Conference — Keeping Genetics Top of Mind 

June 9-10 | UVA Student Health and Wellness, 550 Brandon Ave. | Join leading experts, parents, and industry professionals at this interactive conference aimed at improving patient care for children and families impacted by a rare disease. Focuses on genetic testing, prenatal and neonatal red flags, ethical considerations, communication strategies, and patient-centered solutions. Registration deadline: May 27. Sponsored by UVA Health Continuing Education. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘Above and Beyond’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• “Again, I was stunned at the quality level of care. I saw not only a resident, but the attending. Doctors listened and understood why I was there. They clearly described the test they performed and were adamant about follow-up care with my primary care provider. I got the care that I needed.” 
• “Debbie Page is the person at the registration desk and has been registering me for years. I always leave thinking, ‘I'm going to call and tell her boss what a jewel they have in Debbie’ — but every year I get busy and forget to do this. Of all my experiences over 60+ years with doctor offices, Debbie definitely stands out. She is always so friendly and helpful to everyone I see her interact with during the office visit. She deserves special recognition, as it is rare these days to find people like her.” 
• “UVA Health is amazing — this is my second admission, and the staff and providers are top notch. A highlight of my stay was, once again, the food and nutrition staff: they went above and beyond to make my day when I was in pain. Please recognize this team!” 
• “Dr. Belyea is one of our blessings. He gives more of himself to his patients and their family. He always takes time to make a connection to his patients so that we trust him implicitly. He answers all questions, educating us all and ensuring we understand all medical terms and test results. We credit him with saving our son and family.” 

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

Archive | UVA Health Update

• Nov. 2024
• Dec. 2024
• Jan. 2025
• Feb. 2025
• March 2025
• April 2025