The Epic Quad Upgrade Is Almost Here

As a reminder, our next major Epic upgrade — the Quad Upgrade — will occur on Sunday, Nov. 5, beginning at 12:55 a.m. You can find role-based training materials in the Epic Learning Library which covers: 

• Key changes
• How the Epic Quad Upgrade impacts your Epic experience
• Step-by-step guidance on how to prepare for and navigate the upgraded Epic System 

New this year, the Epic training team created an Upgrade Learning Home Dashboard. To access the dashboard, and all training material, simply click F1 while in Epic. This new dashboard organizes upgrade material by application, category, and the Top 5 Changes, while also allowing you to view the Learning Home Dashboard and go directly to the Epic Learning Library to learn about specific changes that are relevant to your role. You can also find the Upgrade Learning Home Dashboard by searching “upgrade” in dashboard activity. 

Read more on Connect.

Ambulatory

Tomorrow | Webinar for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care Team Members

Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m. | Join | The One Team | United on Access project team has launched a new webinar series called Take 30 for One Team, designed to offer a quick, convenient update on the project to all adult and pediatric primary care team members (including providers, access teams, and clinic staff), whose clinics are currently in the midst of Specialty Wave 3. Tune in for the latest news and learn how the One Team project will impact you in the near future. Your manager should have forwarded a calendar invitation or get the webinar link on the One Team website.

Operations

October Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health

Check out the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage to review this week’s takeaway topic: Securely Backup Your Important Data. Backup your important files to protect yourself from catastrophic data loss and even ransomware attacks.

Emergency Department (ED) Implementing New IV Pump Technology

Tuesday, Oct. 31 | The ED will implement IV pump interoperability technology to enhance patient safety and increase operational efficiency while aligning the ED with the rest of University Medical Center. All who partner with the ED for the delivery of care should be aware this go-live is taking place and will be a central focus of the department through the end of the week.

Fall Back Celebration

Daylight Saving Time | Early morning Sunday, Nov. 5 | midnight-2 a.m. | University Medical Center Cafeteria | Join UVA Health’s Fall Back to the Future celebration. Enjoy free drip coffee and hot chocolate from Higher Grounds, snacks, and giveaways. Talk to representatives from various departments about programs and resources available to you at UVA Health. Leaders will deliver snack boxes to team members who are not able to come to the cafeteria. The Rewards and Recognition team also will deliver items to Pegasus, Call Center, and Cardiac Monitoring Unit. Higher Grounds has extended its business hours during this celebration and will reopen Saturday evening at 7 p.m.

Flu Free in ’23: It’s Time To Get Your Flu Shot

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 15 | Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. Please refer to Health System Policy OCH-002 to find out if you are a Tier 1 team member. Note: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative and the steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting flu.

Human Resources

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award

Deadline: Friday, Nov. 3 | This award recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution far exceeds the overall mission and values of the University. Service contributions to the University can be in the form of service to students, other customers of the University, patients, management, fellow employees, or the University community. Learn more and nominate.

Happenings

Last Call: Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

November Is Native American Heritage Month: Celebrating Tribal Sovereignty and Identity

• Monday, Nov. 6 | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Virtual | Registration Required | Pinn Hall 1005 | Kody Grant, Pueblo of Isleta and Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, is the Tribal Liaison in the UVA Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The former tour guide, actor, and cultural ambassador most recently supervised the American Indian Initiative at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. In the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement’s “Storytellers” series — a UVA or UVA Health team member shares their academic and career journey, mileposts, learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and/or institutional growth.

• Wednesday, Nov. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual | Registration Required | Edward Valandra, PhD, editor of “Colorizing Restorative Justice,” was born and raised on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation and taught at Native and non-Native universities. He served the Sicangu Titunwan Oyate nation in various capacities. Dr. Valandra also serves as an advisor and senior editor to Living Justice Press on how to apply restorative justice to repairing longstanding, historical, and current harms among peoples. In the UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement’s "My Story, My Voice" series — an external subject matter expert shares their academic and career journey, mileposts, learnings, experiences, and more to engage and connect our communities.

Veterans: Send Us Your Photo and Story

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 8 | If you're a UVA Health team member who is also a veteran, we would like to include you in celebration posts on Connect and in the UVA Health Update on Nov. 10 (the day before Veterans Day). To participate, email a photo of you in uniform and send the below information to uvaconnect@virginia.edu.

• Name, title, job at UVA Health?
• In which branch did you serve? What was your rank? When did you serve? What was your job in the military?
• What does Veterans Day mean to you?
• How did your military experience impact your role in healthcare? Does it affect how you care for patients, conduct research, or train students?

Webinar: Lung Cancer Screening Landscape

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | noon-1 pm. | Zoom | Join the UVA Health Cancer Center to learn about the latest lung cancer screening information, including guidelines, best practices, issues, and policies with a focus on interventions that can reduce barriers to cancer screening. Register.

Nominate: Research Achievement Awards

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 4 | 5 p.m. | Recognizing UVA faculty for their excellence in research and scholarship. Awardees will be invited to dinner with the president, provost, and vice president for research. Awards ceremony will be held in January. Details.

Appreciation

October Is Dysautonomia Awareness Month …

… and in observance, UVA Health turned South Tower lights turquoise over the weekend. (Photo by Erica Szymanski.) Dysautonomia International launched the first Dysautonomia Awareness Month in October 2012. According to the organization: more than 70 million people worldwide have various forms of dysautonomia — an umbrella term used to describe medical conditions that cause a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system which controls heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, dilation and constriction of the pupils of the eye, kidney function, temperature control, etc.

Patients have trouble regulating these systems — resulting in lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rates, and gastrointestinal manifestations with potential malnutrition. Forms of dysautonomia include neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS); postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS); and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

At UVA Health, Ina Stephens, MD, and Daniel Schneider, MD, run the pediatric autonomic dysfunction/dysautonomia clinic, see patients from across Virginia, and get referrals from out-of-state including West Virginia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

“Dysautonomia, or autonomic dysfunction, can be related to certain genetic disorders, autoimmune disease, or post infectious phenomenon,” says Dr. Stephens. “Therapy and treatments may include lifestyle management, non-pharmacologic regimens, or pharmacologic interventions, when appropriate.”

We thank all UVA Health team members who work diligently toward treating and curing the forms of dysautonomia.

Previous Updates

Oct. 27, 2023

‘What It Takes to Give the Gift of Life’

A new episode of the Blue Ridge PBS TV show “What It Takes” features the UVA Health Living Donor Kidney Transplant Team. “What It Takes to Give the Gift of Life” shares the story of realtor Carla Brindle of Roanoke who donated a kidney to her stepfather, Albert Williams, and their experience with the UVA Health donation and transplant process.

Carla has known Albert since she was 16, when he started dating and eventually married her mother. "He's been like a father to me ever since," says Carla. "She's like an angel," says Albert. Read more and watch the episode on Connect.

Ambulatory

New One Team Webinar Series for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care Team Members

The One Team | United on Access project team will host a new webinar series to keep Ambulatory team members whose specialties are going through the One Team wave process up to speed on the project. Titled “Take 30 for One Team,” it is open to all team members (including providers, access teams, and clinic staff) from Adult and Pediatric Primary Care, whose clinics currently are going through the One Team specialty Wave 3. This quick, convenient update will provide the latest news and information on how the One Team project will impact you in the near future.

Save the following dates and look for calendar invites to be forwarded from your manager. A full schedule and webinar links also are available on the One Team website.

• Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 29 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 3 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.

Operations

Targeted Traffic Enforcement

Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 | In an effort to create a safer environment for all our patients, visitors, students, and team members, UVA Police will be conducting targeted traffic enforcement at the intersection of Lee Street and Crispell Drive/11th Street SW. This targeted enforcement is being conducted as a result of numerous complaints concerning vehicles failing to fully stop before safely proceeding through the intersection. Additionally, many vehicles are failing to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Police officers will be issuing both warnings and Virginia uniform summons to violators.

Emergency Department Implementing New IV Pump Technology

Tuesday, Oct. 31 | The Emergency Department (ED) will be implementing IV pump interoperability technology, which will enhance patient safety and increase operational efficiency while aligning the ED with the rest of the Medical Center. All those who partner with the ED for the delivery of care should be aware that this go-live is taking place and will be a central focus of the department through the end of the week.

Daylight Saving Time: Fall Back to the Future 

Early morning Sunday, Nov. 5 | midnight-2 a.m. | University Medical Center Cafeteria | Join UVA Health’s Fall Back celebration. Enjoy free drip coffee and hot chocolate from Higher Grounds, snacks, and giveaways. Talk to representatives from various departments about programs and resources available to you at UVA Health. Leaders will deliver snack boxes to team members who are not able to come to the cafeteria. The Rewards and Recognition team also will deliver items to Pegasus, Call Center, and Cardiac Monitoring Unit. Higher Grounds has extended its business hours during this celebration and will reopen Saturday evening at 7 p.m.

Leadership

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Charting the Course Toward Magnet Re-Designation

In her new Vision and Voice post, Wendy Horton discusses with our Director of Nursing Professional Practice Jennifer Hall and Chief Nursing Officer Kathy Baker where UVA Health stands in its Magnet journey. Read more.

Human Resources

University Medical Center Team Members | Learn More About Retirement Plans

For University Medical Center team members, it’s important to evaluate whether you’re making the most of your retirement plan. Participating in a 403(b) or 457 plan — in addition to your retirement plan — can make a difference in your retirement savings. To learn more, UVA Human Resources encourages you to make explore the following resources:

• Understand your Medical Center Retirement Plan.
• Understand the benefits of enrolling in a 403(b) or 457 plan.
• Schedule a free, personalized planning session with an expert. 

Deadline: Education Benefit Requests

The last day for University Medical Center, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, School of Medicine, and School of Nursing team members to submit education benefit requests in Workday for the 2023 calendar year benefit is Dec. 15. Employees may submit requests for advanced funding for 2024 classes and programs by the Dec. 15 deadline as long as the start date is no more than 90 days from the date the request was submitted. Requests for funding for classes for the fall 2023 semester may be submitted as advancement requests if grades will not be available by the Dec. 15 deadline.

The Education Benefit Request function will not be accessible in Workday from Dec. 16 to Jan. 1. Requests submitted from January onward will apply to the 2024 calendar year benefit.

Happenings

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Virginia Film Festival: Check Out These Two Great Documentaries 

The 36th Annual Virginia Film Festival runs Oct. 25-29. This year, UVA Health is sponsoring two films. They are:

• Impossible Town | Saturday, Oct. 28 | Violet Crown 4 | 4-5:30 p.m. | Details | For many years, Minden, West Virginia, has deteriorated into toxic decay due to the pervasive presence of carcinogenic PCBs. Once a thriving coal company town, Minden’s residents now face a cancer rate that is four times higher than the national average, and their concerns are often dismissed by officials. “Impossible Town” delves into loss, grief, and environmental injustice in rural Appalachia, with a specific focus on Dr. Ayne Amjad’s pivotal role in a decades-long struggle to help her community survive in a town that has become nearly uninhabitable. This film will be introduced by Rajesh Balkrishnan, PhD, Professor of Public Health Sciences, and research member of the UVA Cancer Center.
• No Ordinary Campaign | Sunday, Oct. 29 | Culbreth Theatre | 2-3:45 p.m. | Details | In 2017, Brian Wallach and his wife Sandra Abrevaya’s lives drastically changed. Shortly after welcoming their newborn daughter, Brian received a devastating diagnosis of ALS, with doctors giving him roughly six months to live. “No Ordinary Campaign” chronicles one couple’s efforts to spark a healthcare revolution, demonstrating that victory can be achieved even when the odds seem insurmountable. This film will be introduced by Lawrence Phillips, MD, Professor of Neurology.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Veterans: Send Us Your Photo and Story

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 8 | If you're a UVA Health team member who is also a veteran, we would like to include you in celebration posts on Connect and in the UVA Health Update on Nov. 10 (the day before Veterans Day). To participate, email a photo of you in uniform and send the below information to uvaconnect@virginia.edu.

• Name, title, job at UVA Health?
• In which branch did you serve? What was your rank? When did you serve? What was your job in the military?
• What does Veterans Day mean to you?
• How did your military experience impact your role in healthcare? Does it affect how you care for patients, conduct research, or train students?

Veterans Day Breakfast

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Ern Commons at UVA, 567 McCormick Rd. | In honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11), a breakfast is being held to celebrate UVA team members who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans, please join in as UVA shares its appreciation for the sacrifices you have made for our country. Register.

Appreciation | Special Double Edition!

Thanks for the Memories, Kay!

Kay Taylor, UVA Health’s resident photographer, is retiring today. Before she leaves, her friends and colleagues (family, really) in the Office of Strategic Marketing & Communications would like to take one last opportunity to say thank you and to wish her good luck in all future endeavors.

Kay has been with UVA Health for an astounding 43 years! Chances are good that if you’ve seen a photo at UVA Health — in a poster or an advertisement, on Connect, social media, Vision and Voice, Healthy Balance, an annual report, or anywhere else! — you’ve seen Kay’s work.

For more than four decades, she has been an invaluable part in telling the story of UVA Health’s team members, patients, families, students, research, and medical services. For all her amazing work and dedication, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization recently surprised Kay with a BEE Award (pictured), a fitting honor for her years of outstanding service.

Kay: Thank you, thank you, thank you — you will be missed!

‘We Were Overcome With Emotion’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

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

• “Dignity and respect and compassion and just old-fashioned caring — that's how we were treated. When we finished and walked outside the building, we were both crying because we were overcome with emotion by the wonderful way we were treated. Thank you!”
• “I have told all of my friends, to a person in every role [that] my hospital stay and treatment was top notch! While I expected superior medicine from UVA — which is why I went there — I did not expect my outpatient procedure to turn into inpatient care. They converted me and admitted me quickly and professionally. But the biggest surprise was what a community-hospital feel it had. Nursing attention but not unnecessary interruptions. Everyone was so kind and professional. I didn't want to be in the hospital, obviously, but I am so glad I was at UVA. I was truly surprised and so happy and can't say enough about the nursing staff — all shifts on my floor. Please give them a shout out, especially Robert!”
• “Love the GI Team. Dr. Odiase and Dr. Middleton are absolutely wonderful. They know our son by name and remember his diagnosis and story every time we see them. [It’s] always reassuring to know we are well cared for.”
• “Excellent experience, excellent care. RN Auna was amazing, calming, and came to visit me the next morning before her shift. Jason the echo technician was kind and gentle. I've had dozens of echoes in my life, and his was the best — and he sang Happy Birthday to my mom! Dr. Saxon has excellent bedside manner, calming; not haughty or obnoxious as some doctors can be. Set all concerns at ease. Melanie NP/PA was phenomenal; kind, gentle, great at informing and care. Dr. Scrugg (anesthesia on my case, not sure if that was his name) was thorough and well-versed in his explanation and plan of care. It was a phenomenal experience, world-class care. So much easier a procedure than I thought it would be.”

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

Oct. 25, 2023

CANCELED: A Fireside Chat With America’s Top Doctor

NOTE: This speaking engagement has been canceled.

Thursday, Oct. 26 | noon-1 p.m. | Old Cabell Hall | The Compassionate Care Initiative and the Medical Center Hour will host Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, for an hourlong fireside chat. All medical and nursing students, as well as UVA Health team members, are invited to attend.

"Healing Healthcare Together” will focus on the national imperative to build healthcare workers' well-being, mental health, and ability to thrive. Pam Cipriano, President of the International Council of Nurses, will provide an introduction. During the fireside chat with Corey Feist, co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Dr. Murthy will share his reflections, vision, and priorities related to his Health Worker Burnout advisory, which details strategies for creating healthy work and learning environments in healthcare organizations and academic institutions. Specifically, he will speak about “me” and “we” solutions for improving wellbeing and mental health, so all health workers can provide the highest levels of safe and compassionate care for patients, families, and communities.

The final 20 minutes will be reserved for audience members’ questions. Continuing Education credit will be available for attendees. RSVP.

Ambulatory

New One Team Webinar Series for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care Team Members

The One Team | United on Access project team will host a new webinar series to keep Ambulatory team members whose specialties are going through the One Team wave process up to speed on the project. Titled “Take 30 for One Team,” it is open to all team members (including providers, access teams, and clinic staff) from Adult and Pediatric Primary Care, whose clinics currently are going through the One Team specialty Wave 3. This quick, convenient update will provide the latest news and information on how the One Team project will impact you in the near future.

Save the following dates and look for calendar invites to be forwarded from your manager. A full schedule and webinar links also are available on the One Team website.

• Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 29 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 3 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.

Operations

Targeted Traffic Enforcement

Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 | In an effort to create a safer environment for all our patients, visitors, students, and team members, UVA Police will be conducting targeted traffic enforcement at the intersection of Lee Street and Crispell Drive/11th Street SW. This targeted enforcement is being conducted as a result of numerous complaints concerning vehicles failing to fully stop before safely proceeding through the intersection. Additionally, many vehicles are failing to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Police officers will be issuing both warnings and Virginia uniform summons to violators.

Leadership

‘Breakfast With Bennett’ Coming to Fontaine

Tuesday, Dec. 12 | 7-8 a.m. | Fontaine Research Park | Register | Team members are invited to join UVA Health Chief Ambulatory Operations Officer John Bennett for a casual breakfast and conversation. Share your ideas and experiences, hear updates from the chief about the latest Ambulatory happenings, and network with colleagues. A limited number of seats are available, so register today! This is a free event and team members do not have to work at the host location to attend.

Human Resources

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award

Deadline: Friday, Nov. 3 | This award recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution far exceeds the overall mission and values of the University. Service contributions to the University can be in the form of service to students, other customers of the University, patients, management, fellow employees, or the University community. Learn more and nominate.

Happenings

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Happy Respiratory Care Week! 

Please join us in celebrating Respiratory Care Week (Oct. 22-28). UVA Health respiratory therapists play a vital role in helping patients breathe easier and recover from serious illnesses. Find an RT this week and thank them for all their hard work — their dedication to our patients is outstanding. 

Today | 2023 Annual Healthcare Education Fair: What’s Your Future?

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 4-8 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Open to all UVA Health team members. Counselors from several community college and university healthcare education programs will discuss degrees, admissions requirements, resumes, career coaching, mentorships, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and more. Light snacks and coffee card raffle. Hosted by UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s Professional Development Committee. Questions? Email npgo@uvahealth.org. Read more.

Vote: Virginia Business 2024 Top Doctors

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 27 | Virginia Business magazine is establishing a new, peer-selected statewide list of the Top Doctors in Virginia by medical specialty. Winners will be listed in the January 2024 issue of Virginia Business. Only providers with a registered medical license number can vote. Learn more and cast your ballot.

Virginia Film Festival: Check Out These Two Great Documentaries 

The 36th Annual Virginia Film Festival runs Oct. 25-29. This year, UVA Health is sponsoring two films. They are:

• Impossible Town | Saturday, Oct. 28 | Violet Crown 4 | 4-5:30 p.m. | Details | For many years, Minden, West Virginia, has deteriorated into toxic decay due to the pervasive presence of carcinogenic PCBs. Once a thriving coal company town, Minden’s residents now face a cancer rate that is four times higher than the national average, and their concerns are often dismissed by officials. “Impossible Town” delves into loss, grief, and environmental injustice in rural Appalachia, with a specific focus on Dr. Ayne Amjad’s pivotal role in a decades-long struggle to help her community survive in a town that has become nearly uninhabitable. This film will be introduced by Rajesh Balkrishnan, PhD, Professor of Public Health Sciences, and research member of the UVA Cancer Center.
• No Ordinary Campaign | Sunday, Oct. 29 | Culbreth Theatre | 2-3:45 p.m. | Details | In 2017, Brian Wallach and his wife Sandra Abrevaya’s lives drastically changed. Shortly after welcoming their newborn daughter, Brian received a devastating diagnosis of ALS, with doctors giving him roughly six months to live. “No Ordinary Campaign” chronicles one couple’s efforts to spark a healthcare revolution, demonstrating that victory can be achieved even when the odds seem insurmountable. This film will be introduced by Lawrence Phillips, MD, Professor of Neurology.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Introduction to Emotional Intelligence

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | 9-11 a.m. | In-person and Zoom | Examine the connection between how people think, feel, and behave. Explore how emotions affect job performance and review the importance of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. Register.

Webinar: The Gift of Gratitude

Thursday, Nov. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Learn strategies to help you unveil the power of gratitude and strengthen bonds for a fulfilling life. Register. 

Appreciation

A ‘Kickoff’ for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

At the Oct. 10 UVA football game, announcers led the audience in applause as several breast cancer survivors — and UVA Health leaders, providers, and team members — took to the field for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, Wendy Horton, PharmD, CEO, UVA Health University Medical Center, and Melina Kibbe, MD, Dean, UVA School of Medicine, handed gift bags to special guests including survivors Courtney Amodi, Sheila Bolling, Anne Woodward, and Fotini Menemenlis.

They were joined by UVA Health providers Dr. Christiana Brenin (daughter of Menemenlis) and David Brenin, MD, and UVA Cancer Center team members Alison Hall, Brenda Bates, and Kylee Lambert from UVA Health Breast Care Center.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and to all those who take part every day in the fight against breast cancer.

Oct. 23, 2023

UVA Health Orthopedics Honored on National ‘100 Great Orthopedic Programs’ List

Becker’s Hospital Review has named UVA Health Orthopedics to its 2023 list of 100 hospitals and health systems with great orthopedic programs. Becker’s described UVA Health Orthopedics — which saw 200,000 patient visits and performed 10,000 surgeries this past fiscal year, according to the publication — as “a leader in orthopedic clinical care and musculoskeletal research, providing state-of-the-art, comprehensive and cost-effective care to patients with orthopedic disorders.” 

Read more on Connect.

Ambulatory

New One Team Webinar Series for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care Team Members

The One Team | United on Access project team will host a new webinar series to keep Ambulatory team members whose specialties are going through the One Team wave process up to speed on the project. Titled “Take 30 for One Team,” it is open to all team members (including providers, access teams, and clinic staff) from Adult and Pediatric Primary Care, whose clinics currently are going through the One Team specialty Wave 3. This quick, convenient update will provide the latest news and information on how the One Team project will impact you in the near future.

Save the following dates and look for calendar invites to be forwarded from your manager. A full schedule and webinar links also are available on the One Team website.

• Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 29 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 3 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.

Operations

Daylight Saving Time: Fall Back to the Future 

Early morning Sunday, Nov. 5 | midnight-2 a.m. | University Medical Center Cafeteria | Join UVA Health’s Fall Back event. Enjoy free drip coffee and hot chocolate from Higher Grounds, snacks, and giveaways. Talk to representatives from Benefits, Hoos Well, and more. Leaders will deliver snack boxes to team members who are not able to come to the cafeteria. The Rewards and Recognition team also will deliver items to Pegasus, Call Center, and Cardiac Monitoring Unit.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health

Check out the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage to review this week’s takeaway topic: Recognize and Report Phishing Attacks. Learn how to identify and report phishing attempts to prevent ransomware and other malware attacks.

Flu Free in ’23: It’s Time To Get Your Flu Shot

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 15 | Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. Please refer to Health System Policy OCH-002 to find out if you are a Tier 1 team member. Note: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative and the steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting flu.

Targeted Traffic Enforcement

Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 | In an effort to create a safer environment for all our patients, visitors, students, and team members, UVA Police will be conducting targeted traffic enforcement at the intersection of Lee Street and Crispell Drive/11th Street SW. This targeted enforcement is being conducted as a result of numerous complaints concerning vehicles failing to fully stop before safely proceeding through the intersection. Additionally, many vehicles are failing to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Police officers will be issuing both warnings and Virginia uniform summons to violators.

Happenings

Where Can UVA Health Team Members Get Breast Cancer Screenings?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Annual screening mammography is encouraged for women beginning at age 40. Women at high lifetime risk of breast cancer may start screening at an earlier age. Multiple breast cancer screening guidelines exist based on age, risk, and breast density. Talk to your healthcare provider to decide what is best for you. Read more about breast cancer screening on Connect.

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Managing Social Anxiety

Tuesday, Oct. 24 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Zoom | Feeling uncomfortable in social situations? Learn strategies to manage common concerns about being judged and other ways to join social and work situations. Learn more and register.

2023 Annual Healthcare Education Fair: What’s Your Future?

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 4-8 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Open to all UVA Health team members. Counselors from several community college and university healthcare education programs will discuss degrees, admissions requirements, resumes, career coaching, mentorships, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and more. Light snacks and coffee card raffle. Hosted by UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s Professional Development Committee. Questions? Email npgo@uvahealth.org. Read more.

A Fireside Chat With America’s Top Doctor

Thursday, Oct. 26 | noon-1 p.m. | Old Cabell Hall | The Compassionate Care Initiative and the Medical Center Hour will host Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, for an hourlong fireside chat. All medical and nursing students, as well as UVA Health team members, are invited to attend.

"Healing Healthcare Together” will focus on the national imperative to build healthcare workers' well-being, mental health, and ability to thrive. Pam Cipriano, President of the International Council of Nurses, will provide an introduction. During the fireside chat with Corey Feist, co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Dr. Murthy will share his reflections, vision, and priorities related to his Health Worker Burnout advisory, which details strategies for creating healthy work and learning environments in healthcare organizations and academic institutions. Specifically, he will speak about “me” and “we” solutions for improving wellbeing and mental health, so all health workers can provide the highest levels of safe and compassionate care for patients, families, and communities.

The final 20 minutes will be reserved for audience members’ questions. Continuing Education credit will be available for attendees. RSVP.

Vote: Virginia Business 2024 Top Doctors

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 27 | Virginia Business magazine is establishing a new, peer-selected statewide list of the Top Doctors in Virginia by medical specialty. Winners will be listed in the January 2024 issue of Virginia Business. Only providers with a registered medical license number can vote. Learn more and cast your ballot.

Virginia Film Festival: Check Out These Two Great Documentaries 

The 36th Annual Virginia Film Festival runs Oct. 25-29. This year, UVA Health is sponsoring two films. They are:

• Impossible Town | Saturday, Oct. 28 | Violet Crown 4 | 4-5:30 p.m. | Details | For many years, Minden, West Virginia, has deteriorated into toxic decay due to the pervasive presence of carcinogenic PCBs. Once a thriving coal company town, Minden’s residents now face a cancer rate that is four times higher than the national average, and their concerns are often dismissed by officials. “Impossible Town” delves into loss, grief, and environmental injustice in rural Appalachia, with a specific focus on Dr. Ayne Amjad’s pivotal role in a decades-long struggle to help her community survive in a town that has become nearly uninhabitable. This film will be introduced by Rajesh Balkrishnan, PhD, Professor of Public Health Sciences, and research member of the UVA Cancer Center.
• No Ordinary Campaign | Sunday, Oct. 29 | Culbreth Theatre | 2-3:45 p.m. | Details | In 2017, Brian Wallach and his wife Sandra Abrevaya’s lives drastically changed. Shortly after welcoming their newborn daughter, Brian received a devastating diagnosis of ALS, with doctors giving him roughly six months to live. “No Ordinary Campaign” chronicles one couple’s efforts to spark a healthcare revolution, demonstrating that victory can be achieved even when the odds seem insurmountable. This film will be introduced by Lawrence Phillips, MD, Professor of Neurology.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

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

• Friday, Nov. 3 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Monday, Nov. 6 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 21 | 8-11 a.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 29 | 2-5 p.m.

Introduction to Emotional Intelligence

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | 9-11 a.m. | In-person and Zoom | Examine the connection between how people think, feel, and behave. Explore how emotions affect job performance and review the importance of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. Register.

Webinar: Lung Cancer Screening Landscape

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | noon-1 pm. | Zoom | Join the UVA Health Cancer Center to learn about the latest lung cancer screening information, including guidelines, best practices, issues, and policies with a focus on interventions that can reduce barriers to cancer screening. Register.

Appreciation

Officers Hailed as Heroes for Saving a Life in Garage

On the heels of National Security Officer Appreciation Week, team members of the UVA Police Department (UPD)’s Department of Safety and Security (DSS) are being hailed as heroes for saving a life — while risking their own lives — on Oct. 10.

Director of Security Tony Frazier reports Sergeant Richard Hawkins (shown in photo, center) was scanning radio traffic, when he heard a priority call for a suicidal subject at the 11th Street garage. He immediately dispatched Officer Abdul Mukhlis (left) and Officer Mark Stevenson (right). They found two people visibly distraught and shouting at each other. One was holding the other by the arm, trying to stop that woman from harming herself.

“Within seconds, the woman in crisis sprinted toward the ledge in a clear effort to jump off,” describes Lieutenant Frazier. “Abdul quickly responded by sprinting after her — securing her as her body lunged forward across the ledge. Mark quickly came to his aid and they successfully restrained her.”

Huge thanks to Sergeant Hawkins, Officer Mukhlis, and Officer Stevenson for their concerted, selfless efforts — and to Officer Stevenson and Officer Mukhlis for risking their own lives — as they were on the ledge as well.

Sums up Lieutenant Frazier, “I couldn’t be more proud to wear the UVA Security patch that we represent under the DSS. This is what we do in a crisis: save lives.”

Oct. 20, 2023

Expanding Services for Fifeville With Oak Lawn Purchase

Following the successful purchase of property located at the corner of 9th Street Southwest and Cherry Avenue, including Oak Lawn, a historic home, we will soon be partnering with the Fifeville Neighborhood Association and other civic groups to explore how to best use the property in support of community needs.

This represents another big step we are taking to invest in our community, and also shows our commitment to our ten-year strategic plan, where one of our foundational initiatives is to continuously advance community engagement and health equity for all. In Fifeville, we are already showcasing that commitment by organizing a twice-a-month community health station at Abundant Life Ministries on Prospect Avenue. During these events, residents can receive free blood-pressure and blood-sugar checkups, as well as take home fresh produce via a pay-what-you-can farm stand provided by the Local Food Hub and funded by a community grant. 

Read more in the Oct. 18 leadership email or on Connect.

Operations

Epic Quad Upgrade: Training Materials Available Now

The next major Epic upgrade — the Quad Upgrade — will occur on Sunday, Nov. 5, beginning at 12:55 a.m. and it is important that all team members take time to prepare for the changes you will encounter. Training materials are available in the Epic Learning Library and typical users should plan to spend about 30 minutes reviewing them to be prepared for the Quad changes. Read the full announcement on Connect.

How to Report a Missed Page

If you miss a page, it’s easy to report it using these instructions:

• Navigate to the Missed-a-Page site. Login using your standard UVA Health credentials.
• Enter “missed” in the “What are you looking for?” box without the quotes and press enter.
• Click on Missed-a-Page in the results returned.
• Complete every field with an orange asterisk (required fields) and click Submit Request in upper right.

Optionally, you can go directly to the site. Questions? Contact HIT Help Desk at 434.924.5334.

Leadership

Lu Q. Le, MD, PhD Appointed to Chair UVA Department of Dermatology

UVA School of Medicine has named Lu Q. Le, MD, PhD, a nationally renowned cancer biology researcher, to chair its Department of Dermatology. He will begin Jan. 29. Dr. Le comes from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where he serves as professor of dermatology and associate director of the physician-scientist track for the residency program in the Department of Dermatology. Welcome to UVA Health, Dr. Le! Read more on Connect. 

Matthew J. Gurka, PhD, Appointed to Chair UVA Department of Public Health Sciences

Matthew J. Gurka, PhD, a distinguished national leader in child health research, has been appointed Chair, Department of Public Health Sciences, effective Feb. 12. Dr. Gurka brings with him a wealth of experience and a sterling reputation, having previously served as the Vice Chair of Health Outcomes and Translational Research, as well as the Director of the Pediatric Research Hub in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida. Before that, he held the position of the founding Chair of the Department of Biostatistics at West Virginia University’s School of Public Health. Please join us in welcoming him to UVA Health! Read more on Connect.

Human Resources

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award

Deadline: Friday, Nov. 3 | This award recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution far exceeds the overall mission and values of the University. Service contributions to the University can be in the form of service to students, other customers of the University, patients, management, fellow employees, or the University community. Learn more and nominate.

University Medical Center Team Members | Learn More About Retirement Plans

For University Medical Center team members, it’s important to evaluate whether you’re making the most of your retirement plan. Participating in a 403(b) or 457 plan — in addition to your retirement plan — can make a difference in your retirement savings. To learn more, UVA Human Resources encourages you to make explore the following resources:

• Understand your Medical Center Retirement Plan
• Understand the benefits of enrolling in a 403(b) or 457 plan
• Schedule a free, personalized planning session with an expert  

Happenings

Exhibit: BozART Fine Art Collective

Through Wednesday, Nov. 8 | UVA Health University Medical Center main lobby | The Medical Center rotating art exhibit will showcase seven artists who are members of the collective. Stop by to see these breathtaking pieces!

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Jack Fest

Sunday, Oct. 22 | noon-4 p.m. | Foxfield | A family-friendly festival and fundraiser for children with cancer. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville and the pediatric hematology/oncology program at UVA Children’s. Learn more.

Child Health Research Center: Complementary Feeding in Young Children 

Monday, Oct. 23 | 10-11 a.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Conference Center | Zoom, meeting ID: 962 6101 4715, passcode: 466259 | Bruna Leal Lima Maciel, PhD, Associate Professor, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil, will deliver the presentation. 

Double Take: Stories That Make You Think Twice

Monday, Oct. 23 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Rotunda Dome Room | A storytelling event focused on highlighting the powerful experiences of those in the UVA and the greater Charlottesville community. Learn more and register. 

2023 Annual Healthcare Education Fair: What’s Your Future?

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 4-8 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Open to all UVA Health team members. Counselors from several community college and university healthcare education programs will discuss degrees, admissions requirements, resumes, career coaching, mentorships, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and more. Light snacks and coffee card raffle. Hosted by UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s Professional Development Committee. Questions? Email npgo@uvahealth.org. Read more.

A Fireside Chat With America’s Top Doctor

Thursday, Oct. 26 | noon-1 p.m. | Old Cabell Hall | The Compassionate Care Initiative and the Medical Center Hour will host Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, for an hourlong fireside chat. All medical and nursing students, as well as UVA Health team members, are invited to attend.

"Healing Healthcare Together” will focus on the national imperative to build healthcare workers' well-being, mental health, and ability to thrive. Pam Cipriano, President of the International Council of Nurses, will provide an introduction. During the fireside chat with Corey Feist, co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Dr. Murthy will share his reflections, vision, and priorities related to his Health Worker Burnout advisory, which details strategies for creating healthy work and learning environments in healthcare organizations and academic institutions. Specifically, he will speak about “me” and “we” solutions for improving wellbeing and mental health, so all health workers can provide the highest levels of safe and compassionate care for patients, families, and communities.  

The final 20 minutes will be reserved for audience members’ questions. Continuing Education credit will be available for attendees. RSVP.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Veterans Day Breakfast

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Ern Commons at UVA, 567 McCormick Rd. | In honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11), a breakfast is being held to celebrate UVA team members who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans, please join in as UVA shares its appreciation for the sacrifices you have made for our country. Register.

Appreciation

‘Ten Gold Stars!’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

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

• “Everyone, from the man who opened the door before 6 a.m., to the nice lady who wheeled me to the car, and the security lady/guard in the parking lot, along with all the clerks and medical professionals — well, you are all the epitome of what is right with [the world].”
• “I wish I could remember the name of everyone who helped care for me. Tyler with anesthesia was incredible and made me feel so at ease going into surgery. A big shout out to Patty, my post-operation nurse. She was incredible. She was so caring for me and took time to make me and my husband feel so comfortable. No matter what questions we had, even if we asked the same thing over again, she had patience and love. What a gem to UVA Health!!”
• “I want to give a huge shout out to the young woman managing the desk at the vascular clinic — I believe her name is Bera. She was simply amazing. Welcoming, reassuring, comforting, connecting with frequent flier patients as well as newbies like me. Ten gold stars! I hope you will give her some special recognition.”
• “We had wonderful food-service workers come. They were aware of her vomiting and food sensitivities and really went the extra mile to find foods she would eat.”

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

Oct. 18, 2023

A Fireside Chat With America's Top Doctor

Thursday, Oct. 26 | noon-1 p.m. | Old Cabell Hall | The Compassionate Care Initiative and the Medical Center Hour will host Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, for an hourlong fireside chat. All medical and nursing students, as well as UVA Health team members, are invited to attend.

"Healing Healthcare Together” will focus on the national imperative to build healthcare workers' well-being, mental health, and ability to thrive. Pam Cipriano, President of the International Council of Nurses, will provide an introduction. During the fireside chat with Corey Feist, co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Dr. Murthy will share his reflections, vision, and priorities related to his Health Worker Burnout advisory, which details strategies for creating healthy work and learning environments in healthcare organizations and academic institutions. Specifically, he will speak about “me” and “we” solutions for improving wellbeing and mental health, so all health workers can provide the highest levels of safe and compassionate care for patients, families, and communities.  

The final 20 minutes will be reserved for audience members’ questions. Continuing Education credit will be available for attendees. RSVP.

Ambulatory

New One Team Webinar Series for Adult and Pediatric Primary Care Team Members

The One Team | United on Access project team will host a new webinar series to keep Ambulatory team members whose specialties are going through the One Team wave process up to speed on the project. Titled “Take 30 for One Team,” it is open to all team members (including providers, access teams, and clinic staff) from Adult and Pediatric Primary Care, whose clinics currently are going through the One Team specialty Wave 3. This quick, convenient update will provide the latest news and information on how the One Team project will impact you in the near future.

Save the following dates and look for calendar invites to be forwarded from your manager. A full schedule and webinar links also are available on the One Team website.

• Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 29 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 3 | Adult PC, 12-12:30 p.m. | Pediatric PC, 12:30-1 p.m.

Patient Care

Talk to a Doctor Online in Minutes

A valuable service is available to UVA Health Plan and UVA J Visa Health Plan members, Teladoc offers quick access to primary care physicians who can diagnose healthcare concerns over the phone.

• Teladoc provides 24/7 access to convenient, confidential, and affordable healthcare.
• You can speak with a licensed doctor about non-emergency health issues anywhere you are — at home, at work, or on vacation.
• Talk to a board-certified doctor in minutes whenever you need care.
• Teladoc doctors can diagnose and treat cold and flu symptoms, allergies, upper respiratory infections, skin problems, and more.
• Teladoc doctors can send a prescription to your local pharmacy, when medically necessary.
• You can connect with an experienced doctor by phone, web, or mobile app.

Learn more on the UVA HR website.

Telehealth Prescribing Flexibilities Extended Through December 2024

Great news for telemedicine providers: the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officially announced another extension of current telemedicine flexibilities for remote prescribing of controlled substances through Dec. 31, 2024. What this means to clinical practice:

• Extension applies to ALL patient-practitioner relationships — both established and new patients.
• In-person exams remain waived through the end of CY 2024.
• Includes prescribing Buprenorphine to treat opioid use disorder.
• Prevents a possible disruption in patient care.
• This temporary extension allows the DEA time to finalize telemedicine regulations in 2024.

Please refer to this Connect article for additional information and email Telemedicine@uvahealth.org with any questions.

Leadership

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Contest, Prizes, and Testing Your Attention to Detail

In her new Vision and Voice post, Wendy Horton holds a fun competition with a chance to win a gift card! Enter by Oct. 22.

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

If you missed the latest town hall (or want to re-watch), here's your chance to catch up! Visit Connect to find time code stamps for agenda topics and the embedded video for your convenience. The meeting included one-year anniversary strategic plan videos; opening remarks from K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health; and panel discussions about the best place to work, research and translational impacts, community engagement and health equity, statewide expansion and destination programs, and resource stewardship and philanthropy. Watch the video on Connect.

Human Resources

Urgent Action Required: Deadline Has Passed for 2023 Annual Retraining

All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2023, were required to complete annual retraining by Oct. 2. Access the course here. Per Policy HR210: Competency Assessment, University Medical Center team members who have not completed the annual training will be subject to suspension without pay, pending successful completion of the training. For full project information, including audience details, please visit the 2023 Annual Retraining webpage.

Happenings

Team Care for the Care Team 

Thursday, Oct. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 2010 | Compassion challenges and resilience in healthcare are often framed in individual terms, yet this perspective is incomplete. Relational efforts, such as communication and teamwork, also have the capacity to support compassion and improve resilience. This workshop features a short presentation followed by interactive activities focusing on team care for the care team. Part of the Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series. Learn more.

Climate Change and the Disproportionate Health Burdens

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 12:45-1:45 p.m. | The Rotunda Dome Room | Follow up to the successful Medical Center Hour in January 2023. Experts consider direct impacts of climate change on public health — and how communities, healthcare systems, and clinicians can adapt. Hosted and produced by UVA’s Environmental Institute, UVA Sustainability, and iTHRIV. Learn more and register.

Special Medical Center Hour | Medicine and Society: Stories of Dementia, Caregiving, and the Human Brain

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 6-7 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd., and Zoom | Dasha Kiper blends science and storytelling to illuminate the complex relationship between the minds of dementia patients and their caregivers. She will talk with UVA Health geriatrician and medical humanities scholar Dr. Justin Mutter about a new way to understand this symbiotic relationship. A partner presentation by UVA’s Center for Health Humanities and Ethics and The Center at Belvedere. Free and open to all. Register for in-person attendance.

Jack Fest

Sunday, Oct. 22 | noon-4 p.m. | Foxfield | A family-friendly festival and fundraiser for children with cancer. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville and the pediatric hematology/oncology program at UVA Children’s. Learn more.

Double Take: Stories That Make You Think Twice

Monday, Oct. 23 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Rotunda Dome Room | A storytelling event focused on highlighting the powerful experiences of those in the UVA and the greater Charlottesville community. Learn more and register. 

Managing Social Anxiety

Tuesday, Oct. 24 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Zoom | Feeling uncomfortable in social situations? Learn strategies to manage common concerns about being judged and other ways to join social and work situations. Learn more and register.

2023 Annual Healthcare Education Fair: What’s Your Future?

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 4-8 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Open to all UVA Health team members. Counselors from several community college and university healthcare education programs on nursing, lab, pharmacy technician, public health, radiology, speech, occupational therapy, and physical therapy will discuss degrees, admissions requirements, resumes, career coaching, mentorships, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and more. Light snacks and coffee card raffle. Hosted by UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s Professional Development Committee. Questions? Email npgo@uvahealth.org.

50th Annual Edward W. Hook Jr., MD, Recent Advances in Clinical Medicine Conference

Oct. 25-27 | Omni Hotel and Virtual | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | This multidisciplinary, interprofessional, continuing education conference is designed to provide primary care clinicians with the knowledge and skills needed to practice state-of-the-art generalist medicine. Provided by UVA School of Medicine and School of Nursing. Additionally, come out and celebrate Dr. Andrew Wolf who is retiring from leading the course after 25 years! Learn more and register.

Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar

Friday, Oct. 27-Monday, Oct. 30 | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | Register | In-person, four-day training program designed for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals to develop their knowledge about healthcare ethics, moral distress, and ethics consultation process. Questions? Contact Charlene Kaufman, Program Administrator, Center for Health Humanities and Ethics.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Webinar: Lung Cancer Screening Landscape

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | noon-1 pm. | Zoom | Join the UVA Health Cancer Center to learn about the latest lung cancer screening information, including guidelines, best practices, issues, and policies with a focus on interventions that can reduce barriers to cancer screening. Register.

Appreciation

Where Can UVA Health Team Members Go to Get Breast Cancer Screenings?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Annual screening mammography is encouraged for women beginning at age 40. Women at high lifetime risk of breast cancer may start screening at an earlier age. Multiple breast cancer screening guidelines exist based on age, risk, and breast density. Talk to your healthcare provider to decide what is best for you. Read more about breast cancer screening on Connect.

Thank you to all team members who help keep us safe and healthy with preventative screenings like these!

Oct. 16, 2023

Telehealth Prescribing Flexibilities Extended Through December 2024

Great news for telemedicine providers: the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officially announced another extension of current telemedicine flexibilities for remote prescribing of controlled substances through Dec. 31, 2024. What this means to clinical practice:

• Extension applies to ALL patient-practitioner relationships — both established and new patients.
• In-person exams remain waived through the end of CY 2024.
• Includes prescribing Buprenorphine to treat opioid use disorder.
• Prevents a possible disruption in patient care.
• This temporary extension allows the DEA time to finalize telemedicine regulations in 2024.

Please refer to this Connect article for additional information and email Telemedicine@uvahealth.org with any questions.

Operations

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

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

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health

Check out the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage to review this week’s takeaway topic: Use Trusted Password Management Tools and Strong Passwords. Take simple actions to craft and secure strong passwords and keep your digital life secure. 

FAQ | Epic Fall 2023 Quad Upgrade Scheduled

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 12:55-1:30 a.m. | The Epic Quad Upgrade will occur in the early morning hours when we move clocks back for Daylight Saving Time. Health Information Technology estimates a 95-minute downtime; however, Epic will be restored to customers earlier if possible. Read more on Connect.

Flu Free in ’23: It’s Time To Get Your Flu Shot

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 15 | Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. Please refer to Health System Policy OCH-002 to find out if you are a Tier 1 team member. Note: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative and the steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting flu.

Leadership

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

If you missed the latest town hall (or want to re-watch), here's your chance to catch up! Visit Connect to find time code stamps for agenda topics and the embedded video for your convenience. The meeting included one-year anniversary strategic plan videos; opening remarks from K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health; and panel discussions about the best place to work, research and translational impacts, community engagement and health equity, statewide expansion and destination programs, and resource stewardship and philanthropy. Watch the video on Connect.

Human Resources

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award

Deadline: Friday, Nov. 3 | Nominations are being accepted for this award that recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution far exceeds the overall mission and values of the University. Learn more and nominate.

Happenings

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Happy National Pharmacy Week

Oct. 15-21 | National Pharmacy Week is a time to recognize the significant contributions pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy staff make to the healthcare team and to acknowledge their role in ensuring that our patients receive optimal outcomes from their medications. Pharmacy team members in our hospital, ambulatory care clinics, and outpatient pharmacies are essential in providing safe and effective medication use, patient care, and medication education. Please take a moment to thank a pharmacy team member!

Safe Zone Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | 9 a.m.-noon; light breakfast at 8:30 a.m. | MR-5 2005 | Register | An introductory LGBTQ+/ally training workshop intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to use in an effort to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Co-facilitated by Ashley Woodard and Melody Pannell.

Active Attacker Prevention, Response, and Notification Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Newcomb Hall South Meeting Room | Participants will learn about emergency notifications, how to report concerning behavior, and easy-to-remember options for people who are faced with a violent situation. This training is free and open to all students, employees, faculty, and staff of the Academic and UVA Health divisions. For more information, contact Dr. Rachel Slotter, Academic Division Office of Emergency Management. Register.

International Pronoun Day

Wednesday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | To celebrate and support transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming patients and team members, please drop by the table across from the library for a pronoun pin that best suits you. Members of the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee will be passing out pins. Pronoun pins are available year-round from the UVA Health ID Badge Office. Also, consider appending your virtual-meeting name displays and email signatures with your personal pronouns.

Climate Change and the Disproportionate Health Burdens

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 12:45-1:45 p.m. | The Rotunda Dome Room | Follow up to the successful Medical Center Hour in January 2023. Experts consider direct impacts of climate change on public health — and how communities, healthcare systems, and clinicians can adapt. Hosted and produced by UVA’s Environmental Institute, UVA Sustainability, and iTHRIV. Learn more and register.

Child Health Research Center: Complementary Feeding in Young Children 

Monday, Oct. 23 | 10-11 a.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Conference Center | Zoom, meeting ID: 962 6101 4715, passcode: 466259 | Bruna Leal Lima Maciel, PhD, Associate Professor, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil, will deliver the presentation. 

50th Annual Edward W. Hook Jr., MD, Recent Advances in Clinical Medicine Conference

Oct. 25-27 | Omni Hotel and Virtual | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | This multidisciplinary, interprofessional, continuing education conference is designed to provide primary care clinicians with the knowledge and skills needed to practice state-of-the-art generalist medicine. Provided by UVA School of Medicine and School of Nursing. Additionally, come out and celebrate Dr. Andrew Wolf who is retiring from leading the course after 25 years! Learn more and register.

Nominate: Research Achievement Awards

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 4 | 5 p.m. | Recognizing UVA faculty for their excellence in research and scholarship. Awardees will be invited to dinner with the president, provost, and vice president for research. Awards ceremony will be held in January. Details.

Appreciation

A 24/7 Operation: Contact Center Works Around-the-Clock to Serve Patients and Team Members

Have a clinical engineering request? Need an after-hours shuttle ride? Got a bed or equipment order? Managing all these requests and much, much more is the responsibility of the UVA Health Contact Center, which plays a central connective role in the University Medical Center’s operations.

“The Contact Center plays a critical role in everything we do here in the Cardiac Surgery program at UVA Health. They are an essential part of our team, and we would not be able to do any of the things we do without them,” noted Nicholas Teman, MD, with the Heart and Vascular Center.

The center fields almost 470,000 calls per year, many of which are the types of calls you would expect — those from patients looking for information about the visitation policy, MyChart help, directions, and myriad other patient needs. But the team also has a wide range of other responsibilities that extends far beyond patient calls, including but not limited to: 

• Serving as the emergency operators and sending page alerts
• Maintaining the on-call schedules for more than 600 providers and services 
• Language services support
• Continuum Home Health after-hours support
• Facilities (2-FIXX) requests
• Patient transportation in Epic
• MyChart proxy processing

What’s more, the Contact Center also helps direct calls that come into the University’s academic side, handling inquiries that deal with everything from admissions to student accounts, major events, and the bookstore. 

With a team of 26 spread across two locations, the Contact Center is not immune to the staffing challenges that are so common in healthcare, which makes their ability to manage such a large portfolio of work even more impressive. And because the University Medical Center never closes, neither does the Contact Center: theirs is a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week operation.

Thank you, Contact Center team members, for all that you do to make transforming health and inspiring hope possible!

Oct. 13, 2023

Deadline Today: UVA Benefits Open Enrollment

Due Friday, Oct. 13 | 11:59 p.m. | Please complete your benefits elections in Workday. If you do nothing, your current 2023 elections for health, dental, and vision will continue forward for next year. However:

• If you had an HSA in 2023, your benefit will be elected with employer contribution, but with $0 employee contribution. You can adjust your HSA employee contribution later.
• If you had an FSA in 2023, it will not carry over to 2024.

See the full announcement for more information.

COVID-19

COVID Vaccines Now Available Through Employee Health

UVA Health team members may now receive the latest COVID-19 vaccine through Employee Health by calling 434.924.2013 to schedule an appointment (online scheduling through VaxTrax is no longer available). Team members’ insurance will be billed for the vaccine.

Supply of the new COVID-19 vaccine continues to be somewhat limited, so your patience is appreciated as our pharmacy team works to secure more inventory. Team members may also consider getting the vaccine through a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder site to locate a vaccine near you. 

While strongly encouraged, the updated COVID vaccine is not required for team members.

Operations

Flu Free in ’23: It’s Time To Get Your Flu Shot

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 15 | Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. Please refer to Health System Policy OCH-002 to find out if you are a Tier 1 team member. Note: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative and the steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting flu.

Leadership

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

If you missed the latest town hall (or want to re-watch), here's your chance to catch up! Visit Connect to find time-code stamps for agenda topics and the embedded video for your convenience. The meeting included one-year anniversary strategic-plan videos; opening remarks from K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health; and panel discussions about the best place to work, research and translational impacts, community engagement and health equity, statewide expansion and destination programs, and resource stewardship and philanthropy. Watch the video on Connect.

Note: Some team members experienced a brief break in the town hall stream for a few minutes. This did not affect the recording. If the stream was interrupted for you, check out the video to catch up.

From President James Ryan | A Message to the UVA Community

On Wednesday, Oct. 11, UVA President James Ryan sent a message to all UVA team members and students. In it, he wrote, “Since Hamas launched the brutal terrorist attacks on Israel on Saturday, it has been heartbreaking to learn of the devastation and sorrow wrought by what can only be described as atrocities in a region that has experienced far too many of them in its history. There can be no justification for, and we must condemn, the actions of Hamas and the horrific violence that has taken place against civilians, including children. Sadly, the terrible war it has provoked will undoubtedly mean that more innocent lives will be lost. Like so many others, I fervently hope for a swift end to the violence.” Read the full message in your email or the reprint on Connect.

UVA School of Medicine Receives HEED Award

Congratulations to the UVA School of Medicine on receiving the 2023 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. As a recipient of this annual award — a national honor recognizing U.S. health colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion — the School of Medicine will be featured, along with 61 other recipients, in the November/December 2023 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

“The Health Professions HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees — and best practices for both — continued leadership support for diversity, and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” said publisher Lenore Pearlstein. For more information, visit insightintodiversity.com. 

Human Resources

Deadline: Education Benefit Requests

The last day for University Medical Center, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, School of Medicine, and School of Nursing team members to submit education benefit requests in Workday for the 2023 calendar year benefit is Dec. 15. Employees may submit requests for advanced funding for 2024 classes and programs by the Dec. 15 deadline so long as the start date is no more than 90 days from the date the request was submitted. Requests for funding for classes for the fall 2023 semester may be submitted as advancement requests if grades will not be available by the Dec. 15 deadline.

The Education Benefit Request function will not be accessible in Workday from Dec. 16 to Jan. 1. Requests submitted from January onward will apply to the 2024 calendar year benefit.

Urgent Action Required: Deadline Has Passed for 2023 Annual Retraining

All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2023, were required to complete annual retraining by Oct. 2. Access the course here. Per Policy HR210: Competency Assessment, University Medical Center team members who have not completed the annual training will be subject to suspension without pay, pending successful completion of the training. For full project information, including audience details, please visit the 2023 Annual Retraining webpage.

Happenings

Where Can UVA Health Team Members Go to Get Breast Cancer Screenings?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Annual screening mammography is encouraged for women beginning at age 40. Women at high lifetime risk of breast cancer may start screening at an earlier age. Multiple breast cancer screening guidelines exist based on age, risk, and breast density. Talk to your healthcare provider to decide what is best for you. Read more about breast cancer screening on Connect.

South Tower Illuminated

Friday, Oct. 13 | Today is National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. To shine a light on the importance of awareness and funding for metastatic breast cancer (MBC) research, UVA Health will illuminate the South Tower. MBC, also known as Stage IV or advanced breast cancer, has no cure. Thank you to all team members for their outstanding research and care for our patients with MBC.

Safe Zone Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | 9 a.m.-noon; light breakfast at 8:30 a.m. | MR-5 2005 | Register | An introductory LGBTQ+/ally training workshop intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to use in an effort to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Co-facilitated by Ashley Woodard and Melody Pannell.

Active Attacker Prevention, Response, and Notification Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Newcomb Hall South Meeting Room | Participants will learn about emergency notifications, how to report concerning behavior, and easy-to-remember options for people who are faced with a violent situation. This training is free and open to all students, employees, faculty, and staff of the Academic and UVA Health divisions. For more information, contact Dr. Rachel Slotter, Academic Division Office of Emergency Management. Register.

iTHRIV Scholars Clinical Translational Research Symposium

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | 12:30-3 p.m. | Virtual | This symposium will feature Science of Translational Science presentations from iTHRIV’s second-year scholars, as well as research presentations from recent graduates. Keynote speaker will be Renée Cummings, Data Activist in Residence, UVA School of Data Science. Learn more and register.

Team Care for the Care Team 

Thursday, Oct. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 2010 | Compassion challenges and resilience in healthcare are often framed in individual terms, yet this perspective is incomplete. Relational efforts, such as communication and teamwork, also have the capacity to support compassion and improve resilience. This workshop features a short presentation followed by interactive activities focusing on team care for the care team. Part of the Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series. Learn more.

Climate Change and the Disproportionate Health Burdens

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 12:45-1:45 p.m. | The Rotunda Dome Room | Follow up to the successful Medical Center Hour in January 2023. Experts consider direct impacts of climate change on public health — and how communities, healthcare systems, and clinicians can adapt. Hosted and produced by UVA’s Environmental Institute, UVA Sustainability, and iTHRIV. Learn more and register.

Special Medical Center Hour | Medicine and Society: Stories of Dementia, Caregiving, and the Human Brain

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 6-7 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd., and Zoom | Dasha Kiper blends science and storytelling to illuminate the complex relationship between the minds of dementia patients and their caregivers. She will talk with UVA Health geriatrician and medical humanities scholar Dr. Justin Mutter about a new way to understand this symbiotic relationship. A partner presentation by UVA’s Center for Health Humanities and Ethics and The Center at Belvedere. Free and open to all. Register for in-person attendance.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Veterans Day Breakfast

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | 9-11 a.m. | Ern Commons at UVA, 567 McCormick Rd. | In honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11), a breakfast is being held to celebrate UVA team members who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans, please join in as UVA shares its appreciation for the sacrifices you have made for our country. Registration link to come.

Appreciation

‘They Saved Her Life’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

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

• “The care is excellent. Each step of each process is explained, questions are answered, and everything is done to ensure that you know where to go, and what will be happening. The staff works as a unified team to help patients understand each step of care and provide the needed process.”
• “I was very pleased with the staff’s level of professionalism. I was very nervous about the procedure, but my nurses were very reassuring that they would take very good care of me — and they did. Also, the young lady who took me out to the discharge area of the garage took time to help another patient while I was waiting on my ride. I thought that was very kind and thoughtful of her.”
• “My experience with Dr. David Brenin and the surgical team, both before and after my procedure was excellent. Each took time to carefully walk me through each step of the process and showed exceptional kindness. Recognizing my anxiety about medical environments, they went above and beyond to ensure my comfort during the entire process.”
• “Bringing my daughter here was one of the best decisions I have ever made. They saved her life.”

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

Oct. 11, 2023

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

If you missed the latest town hall (or want to re-watch), here's your chance to catch up! Visit Connect to find time-code stamps for agenda topics and the embedded video for your convenience. The meeting included one-year anniversary strategic-plan videos; opening remarks from K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health; and panel discussions about the best place to work, research and translational impacts, community engagement and health equity, statewide expansion and destination programs, and resource stewardship and philanthropy. Watch the video on Connect.

Note: Some team members experienced a brief break in the town hall stream for a few minutes. This did not affect the recording. If the stream was interrupted for you, check out the video to catch up.

National Coming Out Day

Wednesday, Oct. 11 | National Coming Out Day is an annual awareness day to promote a safe world for LGBTQ+ individuals to live truthfully and openly. It is a celebration of diversity. When different people come together, we are all stronger. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or an ally, celebrating National Coming Out Day is an important way to raise the visibility of our communities — reminding us of the ongoing struggles LGBTQ+ people face just for being themselves, but also of the joy and pride of being openly LGBTQ+. Today’s events include:

• Food and Fun | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, Room 2512 | Enjoy Bodo’s bagels, coffee, Duck Donuts, arts and crafts, and a safe space and community for all. Sponsored the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Biomedical Sciences Program, and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
• Community | noon-3 p.m. | Amphitheater | Stop by this community event for free flags, pins, and arts and crafts.
• Dialogue | 5-6 p.m. | LGBTQ Center, Newcomb Hall, 3rd Floor | A safe space to talk about your personal coming-out process or listen to others' experiences. All are welcome, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Operations

FAQ | Epic Fall 2023 Quad Upgrade Scheduled

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 12:55-1:30 a.m. | The Epic Quad Upgrade will occur in the early morning hours when we move clocks back for Daylight Saving Time. Health Information Technology estimates a 95-minute downtime; however, Epic will be restored to customers earlier if possible. Read more on Connect.

New Clinic Naming

UVA Health has a standard naming convention and official naming process that must be followed to ensure consistency, clarity, and easier wayfinding. If you are working on naming a new service or clinic location, visit the Clinic Naming Page on uvahealthbrand.com to complete the required naming request form. This step should be taken at the beginning of your project. Questions? Email rbrandonline@uvahealth.org.

Leadership

‘Breakfast With Bennett’ Coming to Orange

Tuesday, Nov. 21 | 7-8 a.m. | Orange Medical Park | Register | Team members are invited to join UVA Health Chief Ambulatory Operations Officer John Bennett for a casual breakfast and conversation. Share your ideas and experiences, hear updates from the chief about the latest Ambulatory happenings, and network with colleagues. Seats limited, register today. This is a free event and team members do not have to work at the host location to attend.

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Here to Help: Navigating the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

In her new Vision and Voice post, Wendy Horton discusses how supporting our team members includes helping tackle life's challenges, like dealing with student loans. Read more.

Human Resources

Due Soon: UVA Benefits Open Enrollment

Through Friday, Oct. 13 | Choosing the right health plan option and benefit savings accounts is important and reflects the insights you’ve gained about your family’s healthcare spending and financial well-being for the coming year. UVA offers you a variety of options for customizing your benefits to meet your unique needs. You can view plan changes and premiums on the Open Enrollment website before using the Open Enrollment event in Workday to select your benefits for 2024. Read more on Connect.

Urgent Action Required: Deadline Has Passed for 2023 Annual Retraining

All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2023, were required to complete annual retraining by Oct. 2. Access the course here. Per Policy HR210: Competency Assessment, University Medical Center team members who have not completed the annual training will be subject to suspension without pay, pending successful completion of the training. For full project information, including audience details, please visit the 2023 Annual Retraining webpage.

Happenings

Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 13 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | UVA Pinn Hall Conference Center | Join the third annual symposium to honor the legacy of former UVA Cancer Center Director Michael J. Weber, PhD. This year's focus is "Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy," which will bring together global cancer researchers and clinicians to discuss and shape the future of cancer treatment. Distinguished speakers include Maria Castro, PhD; Jose Conejo-Garcia, MD, PhD; John Witte, PhD; Jedd Wolchok, MD, PhD; and Wilson W. Wong, PhD. Learn more and register.

UVA Breast Care Conference: When Less Is More

Saturday, Oct. 21 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center | Many providers have questions regarding how to provide their patients with current information surrounding screening, new technology, and follow-up care. By educating providers on how to use a patient-focused, interdisciplinary approach, providers may influence care and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. This program focuses on determining when less is more for a patient-centered individualized approach to care. Learn more and register.

Jack Fest

Sunday, Oct. 22 | noon-4 p.m. | Foxfield | A family-friendly festival and fundraiser for children with cancer. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville and the pediatric hematology/oncology program at UVA Children’s. Learn more.

Double Take: Stories That Make You Think Twice

Monday, Oct. 23 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Rotunda Dome Room | A storytelling event focused on highlighting the powerful experiences of those in the UVA and the greater Charlottesville community. Learn more and register. 

50th Annual Edward W. Hook Jr., MD, Recent Advances in Clinical Medicine Conference

Oct. 25-27 | Omni Hotel and Virtual | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | This multidisciplinary, interprofessional, continuing education conference is designed to provide primary care clinicians with the knowledge and skills needed to practice state-of-the-art generalist medicine. Provided by UVA School of Medicine and School of Nursing. Additionally, come out and celebrate Dr. Andrew Wolf who is retiring from leading the course after 25 years! Learn more and register.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Appreciation

Supporting LGBTQ+ Equity

In honor of National Coming Out Day (Oct. 11), we wanted to highlight two upcoming LGBTQ+ events:

• Safe Zone Training | Tuesday, Oct. 17 | 9 a.m.-noon; light breakfast at 8:30 a.m. | MR-5 2005 | Register | An introductory LGBTQ+/ally training workshop intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to use in an effort to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Co-facilitated by Ashley Woodard and Melody Pannell.

• International Pronoun Day | Wednesday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | To celebrate and support transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming patients and team members, please drop by the table across from the library for a pronoun pin that best suits you. Members of the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee will be passing out pins. Pronoun pins are available year-round from the UVA Health ID Badge Office.

Thank you to all who help make UVA Health a safe — and inclusive — place for all team members, colleagues, patients, friends, and family!

Oct. 9, 2023

Tomorrow: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or livestream | UVA Health leadership has an exciting agenda planned for the upcoming Town Hall where we will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the UVA Health Strategic Plan. There will be reflections on the extraordinary accomplishments during the last year, updates on top initiatives, and a few surprises! You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall event. Given the special format of this town hall, questions may be answered via email or in a Connect article.

Ambulatory

September Ambulatory Progress Report 

Check out the September Ambulatory Operations Progress Report for the latest updates on One Team | United on Access and news on recruiting, clinic operations, and this month’s Champions of Change.

Operations

Monthly Epic Update

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

FAQ | Epic Fall 2023 Quad Upgrade Scheduled

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 12:55-1:30 a.m. | The Epic Quad Upgrade will occur in the early morning hours when we move clocks back for Daylight Saving Time. Health Information Technology estimates a 95-minute downtime; however, Epic will be restored to customers earlier if possible. Read more on Connect.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health

Check out the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage to review this week’s takeaway topic: Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication. Create extra barriers against threat actors by enabling multi-factor authentication on your accounts at both work and home!

Flu Free in ’23: Get Your Flu Shot by Nov. 15

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu Free in ’23. Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. Please refer to Health System Policy OCH-002 to find out if you are a Tier 1 team member. Note: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative.

Leadership

One Future Together | Health and Hope for All Strategic Plan: One Year in Q&A With Jason Lineen

In late September 2022, UVA Health rolled out its first ever system-wide strategic plan. Entitled "One Future Together | Health and Hope for All," the ambitious 10-year plan encompasses our vision and priorities. Read a Q&A on Connect with UVA Health Chief Strategy Officer Jason Lineen, MBA, as he discusses the plan’s first year.

‘Breakfast With Bennett’ Coming to Orange

Tuesday, Nov. 21 | 7-8 a.m. | Orange Medical Park | Register | Team members are invited to join UVA Health Chief Ambulatory Operations Officer John Bennett for a casual breakfast and conversation. Share your ideas and experiences, hear updates from the chief about the latest Ambulatory happenings, and network with colleagues. Seats limited, register today. This is a free event and team members do not have to work at the host location to attend.

Human Resources

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor

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

Happenings

Donate During Socktober

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Celebrate PA Week

PA Week (Oct. 6-12) recognizes the physician assistant (PA) profession and its contributions to the nation’s health. This year’s PA Week theme is “PAs Go Beyond!” Thank you to all of the amazing PAs at UVA Health for providing outstanding care to our patients!

Donate Blood and Save Lives

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Learning Center, first floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. The Red Cross's national blood supply has fallen by about 25% since early August. Swag alert: Donate before Oct. 20 and receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email. Learn more. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org.

How to Stay Optimistic in an Age of Crisis

Wednesday, Oct. 11 | 6:15-7:30 p.m. | The Haven, 112 West Market St. and Virtual | International Rescue Committee (IRC) President David Miliband discusses humanitarian action and how to find hope in the moment of crisis. Milliband outlines a solutions-driven, action-oriented approach to propel the humanitarian sector forward. Co-sponsored by IRC, Humanitarian Collaborative at UVA, and UVA Global. Learn more and register.

Child Health Research Center: Complementary Feeding in Young Children 

Monday, Oct. 23 | 10-11 a.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Conference Center | Zoom, meeting ID: 962 6101 4715, passcode: 466259 | Bruna Leal Lima Maciel, PhD, Associate Professor, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil, will deliver the presentation “Complementary feeding in young children: relations with the intestinal barrier function and undernutrition.”  

Managing Social Anxiety

Tuesday, Oct. 24 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Zoom | Feeling uncomfortable in social situations? Learn strategies to manage common concerns about being judged and other ways to join social and work situations. Learn more and register.

2023 Annual Healthcare Education Fair: What’s Your Future?

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 4-8 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Open to all UVA Health team members. Counselors from several community college and university healthcare education programs on nursing, lab, pharmacy technician, public health, radiology, speech, occupational therapy, and physical therapy will discuss degrees, admissions requirements, resumes, career coaching, mentorships, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and more. Light snacks and coffee card raffle. Hosted by UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s Professional Development Committee. Questions? Email npgo@uvahealth.org.

Webinar: Lung Cancer Screening Landscape

Wednesday, Nov. 8 | noon-1 pm. | Zoom | Join the UVA Health Cancer Center to learn about the latest lung cancer screening information, including guidelines, best practices, issues, and policies with a focus on interventions that can reduce barriers to cancer screening. Register.

Appreciation

Shout Out to Our Researchers!

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

• Overcoming Cocaine Cravings | Nassima Ait-Daoud Tiouririne, MD (right), and collaborators at UVA's Center for Leading Edge Addiction Research have launched the world's first trial of low-intensity focused ultrasound to help people overcome cocaine addiction. If successful, the trial could pave the way for an important new tool to treat addiction generally.
• Diabetes Risk | Storing fat around the waist is typically thought to indicate heightened risk for type 2 diabetes, but Mete Civelek, PhD, and his team revealed that, for some people, that's not the case. The work highlights the potential of personalized medicine and genetic assessments in guiding patients to good health.
• Slowing Aging | Bimal N. Desai, PhD, and collaborators discovered a key driver of chronic inflammation that accelerates aging. The finding could help us slow the clock to live longer, healthier lives.
• Light in Alzheimer's | Enhanced light sensitivity among patients with Alzheimer's may contribute to sundowning and spur sleep disruptions that may help drive the disease's progression, Heather Ferris, MD, PhD, and her team determined. The work could have important potential both for the development of new treatments and for symptom management.
• Resourceful Coronaviruses | Unexpected findings from Peter Kasson, MD, PhD, and his collaborators help explain why coronaviruses are so good at jumping species and will help scientists better predict how COVID-19 will evolve.
• Chemo for Heart Failure | Jeffrey J. Saucerman, PhD, and graduate student Taylor G. Eggertsen created a powerful new drug-screening tool that determined that a commonly used chemo drug also has the potential to treat and potentially prevent heart failure.
• New Diabetes Approach | Daniel J. Cox, PhD, has launched a clinical trial testing his radical new approach to managing type 2 diabetes with the backing of $3.5 million from the National Institutes of Health. A smaller prior study put nearly 70% of participants in remission without medication or weight loss.

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!

Oct. 6, 2023

One Week Left: UVA Benefits Open Enrollment 

Through Friday, Oct. 13 | Choosing the right health plan option and benefit savings accounts is important and reflects the insights you’ve gained about your family’s healthcare spending and financial well-being for the coming year. UVA offers you a variety of options for customizing your benefits to meet your unique needs. You can view plan changes and premiums on the Open Enrollment website before using the Open Enrollment event in Workday to select your benefits for 2024. Read more on Connect.

Ambulatory

September Ambulatory Progress Report 

Check out the September Ambulatory Operations Progress Report for the latest updates on One Team | United on Access and news on recruiting, clinic operations, and this month’s Champions of Change.

Operations

Flu Free in ’23: Get Your Flu Shot by Nov. 15

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu Free in ’23. Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Note: FLUZONE High-Dose Quadrivalent for people 65 years of age and older is now stocked in clinical areas and available to UVA Health team members. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative.

Monthly Epic Update

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

Leadership

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or livestream | UVA Health leadership has an exciting agenda planned for the upcoming Town Hall where we will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the UVA Health Strategic Plan. There will be reflections on the extraordinary accomplishments during the last year, updates on top initiatives, and a few surprises! You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall event. Given the special format of this town hall, questions may be answered via email or in a Connect article.

Human Resources

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor

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

Happenings

Exhibit: BozART Fine Art Collective

Through Wednesday, Nov. 8 | UVA Health University Medical Center main lobby | The Medical Center rotating art exhibit will showcase seven artists who are members of the collective. Stop by to see these breathtaking pieces!

Donate Blood and Save Lives

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center | Battle Building, first floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. The Red Cross's national blood supply has fallen by about 25% since early August. Right now, blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations coming in. Swag alert: Donate before Oct. 20 and receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email. Learn more. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org.

How to Stay Optimistic in an Age of Crisis

Wednesday, Oct. 11 | 6:15-7:30 p.m. | The Haven, 112 West Market St. and Virtual | International Rescue Committee (IRC) President David Miliband discusses humanitarian action and how to find hope in the moment of crisis. Milliband outlines a solutions-driven, action-oriented approach to propel the humanitarian sector forward. Co-sponsored by IRC, Humanitarian Collaborative at UVA, and UVA Global. Learn more and register.

Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 13 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | UVA Pinn Hall Conference Center | Join the third annual symposium to honor the legacy of former UVA Cancer Center Director Michael J. Weber, PhD. This year's focus is "Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy," which will bring together global cancer researchers and clinicians to discuss and shape the future of cancer treatment. Distinguished speakers include Maria Castro, PhD; Jose Conejo-Garcia, MD, PhD; John Witte, PhD; Jedd Wolchok, MD, PhD; and Wilson W. Wong, PhD. Learn more and register.

Safe Zone Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | 9 a.m.-noon; light breakfast at 8:30 a.m. | MR-5 2005 | Register | This is an introductory LGBTQ+/ally training workshop intended to give faculty, staff, and students strategies to use in an effort to contribute to an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement and School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Co-facilitated by Ashley Woodard and Melody Pannell.

Active Attacker Prevention, Response, and Notification Training

Tuesday, Oct. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Newcomb Hall South Meeting Room | Participants will learn about emergency notifications, how to report concerning behavior, and easy-to-remember options for people who are faced with a violent situation. This training is free and open to all students, employees, faculty, and staff of the Academic and UVA Health divisions. For more information, contact Dr. Rachel Slotter, Academic Division Office of Emergency Management. Register.

Team Care for the Care Team 

Thursday, Oct. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 2010 | Compassion challenges and resilience in healthcare are often framed in individual terms, yet this perspective is incomplete. Relational efforts, such as communication and teamwork, also have the capacity to support compassion and improve resilience. This workshop features a short presentation followed by interactive activities focusing on team care for the care team. Part of the Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series. Learn more.

Climate Change and the Disproportionate Health Burdens

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 12:45-1:45 p.m. | The Rotunda Dome Room | Follow up to the successful Medical Center Hour in January 2023. Experts consider direct impacts of climate change on public health — and how communities, healthcare systems, and clinicians can adapt. Hosted and produced by UVA’s Environmental Institute, UVA Sustainability, and iTHRIV. Learn more and register.

Medicine and Society: Stories of Dementia, Caregiving, and the Human Brain

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 6-7 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd., and Zoom | Dasha Kiper blends science and storytelling to illuminate the complex relationship between the minds of dementia patients and their caregivers. She will talk with UVA Health geriatrician and medical humanities scholar Dr. Justin Mutter about a new way to understand this symbiotic relationship. A partner presentation by UVA’s Center for Health Humanities and Ethics and The Center at Belvedere. Free and open to all. Register for in-person attendance.

Bill Steers Four Miler

Sunday, Nov. 5 | 7:45-9:30 a.m. | Foxfield | A run/walk event started by Dr. Bill Steers, the former Chair of the Department of Urology, who passed away in 2015. Dr. Steers was a visionary researcher and outstanding clinician, teacher, and leader in urology who started this fundraising event to highlight the impact of exercise and healthy lifestyle on health and wellness. Co-sponsored by the UVA Department of Urology and the Charlottesville Track Club. Proceeds support UVA Urology prostate cancer research as well as research into survivorship, reconstruction, and recovery of function for all patients. Learn more and register.

Appreciation

‘Everyone Was Very Welcoming’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues

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

• “Kathryn H. was phenomenal! My daughter never felt so comfortable in a setting outside of home. The whole staff was awesome about keeping us updated with current and next steps. Everyone listened to her.”
• “The overwhelming feeling that no matter what is wrong, UVA would find it and fix it like they were treating their own mom.”
• “Everyone was very welcoming and made me feel comfortable and well-cared for. The front office staff noticed I had made a payment that I didn't need to make and went out of their way to submit a request for reimbursement. The whole experience there was a good one. I'm glad I chose UVA Health.”
• “Concerns were addressed and the discussion of risks were straightforward yet kind. Weight loss was a topic that I knew was going to be brought up, and it was covered with a sensitivity and care I've never expected from a health provider. I've been very encouraged, and currently a week into healthier eating, and have been finding ways to include more exercise and I attribute this to the compassion and care shown by everyone I spoke with.”

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

Oct. 4, 2023

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or livestream | UVA Health leadership has an exciting agenda planned for the upcoming Town Hall where we will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the UVA Health Strategic Plan. There will be reflections on the extraordinary accomplishments during the last year, updates on top initiatives, and a few surprises! You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall event. Given the special format of this town hall, questions may be answered via email or in a Connect article.

TODAY | Nationwide Testing of Emergency Systems

Wednesday, Oct. 4 | 2:20 p.m. | The Federal Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts. Test messages will be sent to all TVs, radios, and cellphones. Details.

Ambulatory

September Ambulatory Progress Report 

Check out the September Ambulatory Operations Progress Report for the latest updates on One Team | United on Access and news on recruiting, clinic operations, and this month’s Champions of Change.

Operations

All Devices Running Office 2016 to Be Automatically Upgraded

Starting last month, all UVA Health devices running Microsoft Office 2016 began upgrading to Office 2021. The upgrades will take place automatically on a rolling schedule based on PC number through spring 2024, affecting approximately 17,000 devices. Here’s what you need to know about the installation:

• Most devices complete the installation within 15 minutes, but older devices and those located off Grounds may take longer.
• The automated installation will offer an option to delay up to five days.
• If you wish to control the timing of the upgrade, it’s best to initiate it manually by following the instructions on HIT’s Office 2021 help page.
• To prepare for the upgrade, ensure that all Office files (e.g., .docx, .xlsx, etc.) are saved to a network location such as your home drive (F:) or other department shared drives (e.g., O:, Y;, and Z:).

Learn more about the upgrade and specific changes users will experience on HIT’s Office 2021 help page.

Leadership

‘Breakfast With Bennett’ Coming to Orange

Tuesday, Nov. 21 | 7-8 a.m. | Orange Medical Park | Register | Team members are invited to join UVA Health Chief Ambulatory Operations Officer John Bennett for a casual breakfast and conversation. Share your ideas and experiences, hear updates from the chief about the latest Ambulatory happenings, and network with colleagues. Seats limited, register today. This is a free event and team members do not have to work at the host location to attend.

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Making Progress, Growing Together

In her new Vision and Voice post, Wendy Horton shares a short video containing updates about where we stand today as a medical center and what lies ahead. Read more.

Happenings

Hope and Help: New Frontiers in Perinatal Mental Health

Thursday, Oct. 5 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Boars Head Resort - Ballroom, 200 Ednam Dr. | Focusing on building better futures for mothers, birthing people, and babies. Proceeds will support Postpartum Support Virginia’s direct services to mothers and UVA Health’s Perinatal Mental Health Clinic. Learn more and register.

Donate Blood and Save Lives

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center | Battle Building, first floor | Support the American Red Cross — UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products — in alleviating the severe blood shortage by volunteering to donate blood. The Red Cross's national blood supply has fallen by about 25% since early August. Right now, blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations coming in. Swag alert: Donate before Oct. 20 and receive a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email. Learn more. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org.

Mindfulness Classes

• Advanced Mindful Leadership Training Class | Tuesdays, Oct. 10-Dec. 5 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Learn more.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 30-Dec. 18 I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Dec. 2 | Zoom | Register

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

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

• Wednesday, Oct. 11 | 1:30-4:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Monday, Oct. 23 | 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Submit Nominations | Uteam Member of the Month

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

International Pronoun Day

Wednesday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | To celebrate and support transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming patients and team members, please drop by the table across from the library for a pronoun pin that best suits you. Members of the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Advisory Committee will be passing out pins. Pronoun pins are available year-round from the UVA Health ID Badge Office.

UVA Breast Care Conference: When Less Is More

Saturday, Oct. 21 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center | Many providers have questions regarding how to provide their patients with current information surrounding screening, new technology, and follow-up care. By educating providers on how to use a patient-focused, interdisciplinary approach, providers may influence care and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. This program focuses on determining when less is more for a patient-centered individualized approach to care. Learn more and register.

Jack Fest

Sunday, Oct. 22 | noon-4 p.m. | Foxfield | A family-friendly festival and fundraiser for children with cancer. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville and the pediatric hematology/oncology program at UVA Children’s. Learn more.

50th Annual Edward W. Hook Jr., MD, Recent Advances in Clinical Medicine Conference

Oct. 25-27 | Omni Hotel and Virtual | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | This multidisciplinary, interprofessional, continuing education conference is designed to provide primary care clinicians with the knowledge and skills needed to practice state-of-the-art generalist medicine. Provided by UVA School of Medicine and School of Nursing. Additionally, come out and celebrate Dr. Andrew Wolf who is retiring from leading the course after 25 years! Learn more and register.

Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar

Friday, Oct. 27-Monday, Oct. 30 | Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 20 | Register | In-person, four-day training program designed for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals to develop their knowledge about healthcare ethics, moral distress, and ethics consultation process. Questions? Contact Charlene Kaufman, Program Administrator, Center for Health Humanities and Ethics.

Appreciation

A Great Update From September’s Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month!

After undergoing a year of renovation, UVA Health Children’s Patient and Family Centered Care has unveiled a new space for children and teenagers to relax during treatment at the Battle Building 5th floor Infusion Center.

The “sanctuary” — as it’s dubbed by a teen on the design committee — is a result of a partnership with donors. Donor Kendrick Kier’s nephew passed away from cancer. Kendrick wanted the child’s legacy to live on and started a foundation to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer.

Another donor is teenager Luke Post, a former UVA Health patient who raised funds in 2021 by selling T-shirts declaring “No One Fights Alone” — and the NY Yankees pitched in!

“Infusions can sometimes last hours and a change of scenery during that time can really make a difference,” explains Amy Cesak, CCLS, Manager of Patient and Family Centered Care. “It also doubles as a space to foster connections with others going through similar healthcare experiences.”

There is a state-of-the-art massage chair, comfortable and inviting couch, gaming, and a television. The vibrant backdrop: the wall is wrapped with a photo of Shenandoah National Park’s Old Rag Mountain taken by Nick Palastro, who graciously gave UVA Health permission to use the image.

Thank you to the donors and UVA Health team members who made all this possible!

Oct. 2, 2023

UVA Benefits Open Enrollment Starts

Benefits Open Enrollment: Oct. 2-13 | Choosing the right health plan option and benefit savings accounts is important and reflects the insights you’ve gained about your family’s healthcare spending and financial well-being for the coming year. UVA offers you a variety of options for customizing your benefits to meet your unique needs. You can view plan changes and premiums on the Open Enrollment website before using the Open Enrollment event in Workday to select your benefits for 2024. Read more on Connect.

IMPORTANT | Due Today: Please Complete 2023 UVA Health Annual Retraining

Deadline: Monday, Oct. 2 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2023, are required to complete annual retraining by Oct. 2. Access the course here. Per Policy HR-210: Competency Assessment, UVA Health University Medical Center team members who do not meet the requirement before the deadline will be suspended without pay, pending successful completion of the training. For full project information, including audience details, please visit the 2023 Annual Retraining webpage.

COVID-19

Important COVID and RSV Vaccine Updates

UVA Health is moving quickly to make the new COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines available to team members and patients. Here’s the latest:

COVID-19

• Patients 12 and older: Due to supply constraints, the new COVID vaccine for patients 12 years and older will be offered only at UVA Health pharmacies starting Thursday, Oct. 5. Once adequate supply is received, the vaccine will be rolled out to clinics.
• Patients 11 and younger: We will offer the 6-month- to 4-year-old and the 5-to-11-year-old formulations of the new COVID vaccine starting Thursday, Oct. 5. Patients should contact their providers for an appointment to receive the vaccine; the pharmacy does not offer vaccination appointments for patients under 12.
• UPG Clinical Practice Group (CPG) clinics: COVID vaccine information will be disseminated to CPG clinics separately. Patient administration date to be determined.
• Patients’ insurance will be billed for this vaccine.

RSV

• The RSV vaccine is available now for individuals 60 years of age and older through UVA Health pharmacies. 
• The RSV vaccine also is recommended for seasonal administration to pregnant patients 32-36 weeks gestation to prevent RSV lower respiratory tract disease in infants. These vaccines are expected to be offered in Women’s Health clinics soon.  
• The monoclonal antibody for prevention of RSV lower respiratory tract disease in infants and children up to 19 months of age is not yet available at UVA Health but is expected soon.
• Patients’ insurance will be billed for this vaccine.

Pharmacy Appointments | Pharmacy appointments are required for vaccinations and may be scheduled through MyChart (choose “schedule an appointment” from main menu, then choose “pharmacy vaccine”) or by calling 434.297.4VAX. Patients may choose to get flu, RSV, and COVID vaccines at the same time and need only one appointment.

Continue to watch this space for important updates as we work to vaccinate our communities against respiratory illnesses.

Ambulatory

APP Visits Now Available at Same Day Care

Since mid-July, UVA Health Same Day Care (SDC) at 1222 Jefferson Park Ave. has been offering same-day nurse visits to patients referred by select departments. SDC has added advanced practice provider (APP) visits to its offerings for non-emergent acute issues and follow-up care effective Monday, Oct. 2. These appointments will be available to primary care clinics as an overflow option for acute/urgent adult patients (as well as Interactive Home Monitoring patients). Instructions for scheduling SDC nurse and APP visits have been shared with primary care clinics via email.

Pediatric patients should not be referred to Same Day Care, nor should patients with emergent issues such as chest pain, suspicion of stroke, etc. Same Day Care is not a walk-in urgent care. Patients must be referred by a UVA Health clinic, department, or provider and have an appointment.

Patient Care

Follow These Procedures for Adding Clinical Documents to Epic 

The Epic Haiku application offers providers the ability to upload images of patients to their electronic medical record that are taken for identification, treatment, and diagnosis purposes. This functionality should be reserved for patient images only. Photographs of clinical documents, including and especially consents, should never be uploaded and stored as an image. To add clinical documents and consents to a patient’s electronic medical record, submit the material to Health Information Management (HIM) for incorporation within Epic:

• Inpatient: Follow the Standard Work for e-Faxing Inpatient Documentation or send it via our courier that picks up Monday through Friday on the unit.
• Ambulatory: Follow the Document Import Process or send it via our courier that picks up Monday through Friday from each Ambulatory area, including the Emergency Department and outpatient surgery centers.

Following these procedures ensures that the documentation is indexed under the correct document type and tab, is attached to the correct patient encounter, undergoes a quality review, and that all pages are maintained together. Contact Health Information Management at 434.924.5136 with questions.

Operations

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health 

Check out the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage to review this week’s takeaway topic: Update Your Software – Prevent Malware Attacks. Always patch your software and applications when updates become available — don’t delay!

Flu Free in ’23: Get Your Flu Shot by Nov. 15

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu Free in ’23. Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Read details on Connect about the Flu Free in ‘23 initiative.

Leadership

Next Week: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Oct. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or livestream | UVA Health leadership has an exciting agenda planned for the upcoming Town Hall where we will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the UVA Health Strategic Plan. There will be reflections on the extraordinary accomplishments during the last year, updates on top initiatives, and a few surprises! You are invited to join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@uvahealth.org — now or during the town hall event. Given the special format of this town hall, questions may be answered via email or in a Connect article.

Happenings

Sharing Our Strength: Prostate Cancer Support Group

Tuesday, Oct. 3 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Virtual | UVA Health Cancer Care is offering a virtual prostate cancer support group — which meets the first Tuesday of every month — led by UVA Health oncology social workers, to create a safe environment in which patients support one another. To register, contact Wanda Shreve and provide your email address to receive the event link.

Managing Conflict

Wednesday, Oct. 4 | 9-11 a.m. | 2400 Old Ivy Rd. or Virtual | Diagnose conflict before it intensifies. Identify five common approaches to conflict and the implications of each; recognize your approach; assess situations; and recognize how conflict impacts team dynamics. Register.

My Story, My Voice

Wednesday, Oct. 4 | 10-11 a.m. | Pinn Hall, Room 1005, and Virtual | Charlottesville native Charley Burton discusses LGBTQ+ History Month this October. Burton is an advocate for trans equality, president of PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays of the Blue Ridge), and co-founder of Diversity in Recovery. Registration required for virtual attendance. Event sponsored by UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement.

Medical Center Hour: Integrating Medical and Social Care in Primary Care

Wednesday, Oct. 4 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Emilia De Marchis, MD, MAS, Assistant Professor of Clinical Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, will review how social care is being integrated in primary care settings, and highlight bright spots in primary care practice innovation around social care. Justin Mutter, MD, Director of Health Humanities Programs, UVA Center for Health Humanities and Ethics, will moderate. This John F. Anderson Memorial Lecture is provided by UVA School of Medicine and School of Nursing.

Hope and Help: New Frontiers in Perinatal Mental Health

Thursday, Oct. 5 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Boars Head Resort - Ballroom, 200 Ednam Dr. | Focusing on building better futures for mothers, birthing people, and babies. Proceeds will support Postpartum Support Virginia’s direct services to mothers and UVA Health’s Perinatal Mental Health Clinic. Learn more and register.

Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 13 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | UVA Pinn Hall Conference Center | Join the third annual symposium to honor the legacy of former UVA Cancer Center Director Michael J. Weber, PhD. This year's focus is "Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy," which will bring together global cancer researchers and clinicians to discuss and shape the future of cancer treatment. Distinguished speakers include Maria Castro, PhD; Jose Conejo-Garcia, MD, PhD; John Witte, PhD; Jedd Wolchok, MD, PhD; and Wilson W. Wong, PhD. Learn more and register.

Medicine and Society: Stories of Dementia, Caregiving, and the Human Brain

Thursday, Oct. 19 | 6-7 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd., and Zoom | Dasha Kiper blends science and storytelling to illuminate the complex relationship between the minds of dementia patients and their caregivers. She will talk with UVA Health geriatrician and medical humanities scholar Dr. Justin Mutter about a new way to understand this symbiotic relationship. A partner presentation by UVA’s Center for Health Humanities and Ethics and The Center at Belvedere. Free and open to all. Register for in-person attendance.

Nominate: Research Achievement Awards

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 4 | 5 p.m. | Recognizing UVA faculty for their excellence in research and scholarship. Awardees will be invited to dinner with the president, provost, and vice president for research. Awards ceremony will be held in January. Details.

Appreciation

Ready, Set — Socktober!

Through Tuesday, Oct. 31 | Clean socks are the top requested — yet least donated — item at homeless shelters. Help change that in the Charlottesville area! Drop off a new pair of socks in Socktober bins at University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, or Fontaine. There will be weekly departmental prizes. And overall, the top three departments will earn catered events and the top department also will win a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Learn more. Questions? Contact Chadwick French.

Thank you in advance to all who participate and donate!

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