Masking: Clarification of CDC’s Guidance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic guidance on Friday, Sept. 23. As some of this information is being misinterpreted, we wanted to remind all UVA Health team members that they must wear a mask when in any area where a patient may be encountered. Visitors, patients, and families must also wear masks in these areas.

The CDC’s criteria for easing up on universal masking is when a local area’s CDC COVID transmission is below “high.” Currently, Charlottesville and Albemarle's transmission level is high, as is almost the entirety of the Commonwealth — and COVID transmission rates and cases are likely to increase this fall and winter. Additionally, the benefits of universal masking go beyond COVID transmissions, as it also helps mitigate other respiratory viruses (like flu), which we will see more of in the coming months. Please continue wearing a mask: It is an important safety measure for both our patients and our team members.

Related UVA Health policies:

• Universal Masking: Patients and Visitors
• Health Screening, Masking, and Other Work Space Safety Requirements: Team Members

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:36 p.m. Sept. 30)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 30)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

COVID Bivalent Boosters for Children 5-11 Years May Be Coming Soon

Many clinicians and parents have been asking if and when bivalent boosters will be available for children 5-11 years old. Based on the latest information from regulatory authorities, approval may come later this fall, although vaccine delivery can only begin if an FDA emergency use authorization is issued. Preordering of a Pfizer bivalent booster for this age group has begun, and planning for their distribution is underway at UVA. More details will be shared as soon as possible.

Reminder: Vaccinators Needed for Several UVA Health Programs

Paid vaccinators are needed for the following groups:

• Team Member Vaccinations | Employee Health needs support in administering COVID-19 boosters and flu shots to team members on weekdays and weekends. To sign up, contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.
• Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events | MAs, LPNs, and RNs are needed to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at weekly events for vulnerable community members in Charlottesville. See schedule below. Please use this link to sign-up. Contact Amy Luu at al2hf@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu if you have questions.
  • Mondays | 6-7:30 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation
  • Tuesdays | 5:30-7 p.m. | Mt. Zion Church

Patient Care

Coming Change: UVA Health Will Begin Releasing Patient Test Results 7 Days a Week

Starting in mid-October, Epic will begin releasing test results via MyChart to patients seven days a week. This change will eliminate the weekend hold period now in effect for all test results, except those for COVID-19, which are already being auto-released to MyChart as soon as they are finalized. (Note: Some test result types will not auto-release at all. See the result-type exceptions to this schedule here.) This change is being made to:

• Better support patient needs and expectations and increase their satisfaction.
• Gain parity with other healthcare systems in terms of the time it takes for us to release test results to patients.
• Comply with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services requirements and avoid fines for information blocking.   

Patients will be notified about this change via MyChart and advised that their provider may not have had a chance to see the result. Instead of calling weekend coverage staff, patients will be asked to call during regular office hours or send a MyChart message to the physician who ordered the test/study in question. Feedback from other health systems that release test results daily indicates that weekend call volume should be minimal. For more details about this change and frequently asked questions, you can type “fast/” in any health system browser address bar or click on this link.

Operations

Hurricane Ian Preparedness

The Medical Center Inclement Weather Assessment Team met to discuss the potential impacts of Hurricane Ian. By the time the storm reaches Charlottesville, it is expected to have downgraded to a tropical storm or below. The storm could still bring periods of heavy rainfall and moderate winds over the next four days. Please be assured that the Weather Assessment Team and Emergency Management are continuing to monitor the situation to ensure the safety of our team members and patients. As a result of this event, power outages, downed trees, and localized flooding are possible. Please review the important safety information in the Health System Emergency Management email sent on Friday, Sept. 30, or on Connect.

Last Chance to Take University Hospital Cafeteria Survey

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the East Café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Leadership

Speed-Watcher’s Guide to the Town Hall

If you missed the Tuesday, Sept. 27, Town Hall, you can catch up with the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect. K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders discussed a range of topics and unveiled the new strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. Watch.

Medical Center CEO Blog: Helping Our Patients Beyond Clinic Walls

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses how identifying social determinants of health helps us provide knowledgeable care for our patients and improve outcomes. Read more.

Human Resources

Due Today: Required Annual Retraining

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Open Enrollment Starts Next Week

Oct. 3-14 | Before Benefits Open Enrollment starts for plan year 2023, make sure to review and confirm your benefits. Resources, presentations, information on changes, important dates, and upcoming benefits events can be found on the Open Enrollment website. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu or call 434.243.3344 to schedule a Zoom appointment to review more complex questions with an HR professional. HR will accommodate as many appointments as possible through Wednesday, Oct. 12.

Coming Next Week: UVA Health Engagement Survey

Team members’ voices are essential to helping us achieve our bold new vision of being the nation’s leading public academic health system and best place to work — while transforming patient care, research, education, and engagement within the diverse communities we serve. Our upcoming systemwide engagement survey will invite team members to share their feedback and ideas through these channels:

• Press Ganey Survey | Team members with UVA Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing, and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library can participate Oct. 4-Nov. 11; UVA Community Health team members can participate Nov. 28-Dec. 19.
• Association of American Medical Colleges’ (AAMC) Survey | Will be open to UVA School of Medicine faculty.

Deadlines Approaching: Earn While You Learn Program

The Earn While You Learn Program is now hiring for the October Certified Nursing Aide, Certified Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, and Phlebotomy programs. Links to the programs can be found on the Earn While You Learn webpage. Read more on Connect about the program and how it helped one couple get into healthcare.

Happenings

New FEAP Service Offerings and Awareness

In response to the multitude of stressors affecting the mental health and the needs of our community, FEAP has expanded offerings.

• Prevention & Mental Health Awareness | Aimed at preventing stress injury and illness by sharing expertise and education with individuals, teams, and the University community to help individuals lead healthier lives. Learn more.
• Crisis & Care Coordination | Provides increased responsiveness to emergent individual and organizational needs. Learn more.

Reminder: September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and you can play an important role in the prevention of suicide and altering its public perception by taking time to research, understand, and discuss it. Learn more.

Medical Center Hour | Diabetes and the Fragmented States of America: The Opportunity for Primary Care

Wednesday, Oct. 5 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium or Zoom |Using diabetes as a case example, this talk will examine three major aspects of fragmented care in the United States. Speaker: Mohammed K. Ali, MD, MSc, MBA, William H. Foege Distinguished Professor of Global Health, Co-Director, Emory Global Diabetes Research Center, Vice Chair (Research), Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University. This John F. Anderson Memorial Lecture is co-presented by the Generalist Scholars Program in celebration of National Primary Care Week.

Annual Nursing and Healthcare Education Fair

Wednesday, Oct. 5 | 5-8 p.m. | Virtual and Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Admissions Counselors will be available to discuss healthcare programs, including pharmacy tech, radiology, certified nursing assistant, and nursing programs of all levels. Open to any UVA team member interested in going to school for a different role within healthcare. Learn more.

Appreciation

Team Effort Helps Fill Critical Staffing Needs in Ambulatory Clinics

Teams from across the health system came together last week to host a successful career-hiring event in support of ambulatory clinics. Nearly 20 team members from Human Resources (HR), Ambulatory Operations, and Facilities collaborated to produce the event held Sept. 20 at the HR offices on Ivy Road, with another 30 managers and medical team members participating to engage and screen prospective candidates. An integrated marketing campaign (and the promise of Kona Ice!) drew 49 attendees to the event, with six receiving and accepting offers on the spot. Additionally, more than a dozen other candidates were identified for key openings and started the hiring process. In total, approximately one-third of attendees were hired or entered the hiring pipeline!
 
“The feedback on this event — from candidates and team members alike — was very positive and the results speak for themselves,” said Charles Bodden, Senior Director for Talent Acquisition and Retention, and one of the event’s lead organizers. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make it a success and see it as a model for future hiring events that may be replicated across the health system.” Thank you to all who made this event so successful. We look forward to welcoming our new team members!

PREVIOUS UPDATES

Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022

Speed-Watcher’s Guide to the Town Hall

If you missed yesterday’s Town Hall, you can catch up with the speed-watcher’s guide on Connect. K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO, UVA Health, and other leaders discussed a range of topics and unveiled the new strategic plan: One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. The plan sets a bold vision for the decade ahead and encompasses all of our four mission areas (clinical care, education, research, and community), as well as our seven entities (the Schools of Medicine and Nursing, University Medical Center, University Physicians Group, the Health Sciences Library, UVA Community Health, and UVA Community Health Medical Group). Every member of UVA Health is essential to achieving our mission to transform health and inspire hope for all Virginians and beyond.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 2:07 p.m. Sept. 28)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 28)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Reminder: Vaccinators Needed for Several UVA Health Programs

Paid vaccinators are needed for the following groups:

• Team Member Vaccinations | Employee Health needs support in administering COVID-19 boosters and flu shots to team members on weekdays and weekends. To sign up, contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu. 
• Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events | Volunteer MAs, LPNs, and RNs are needed to provide COVID-19 tests and vaccinations at weekly events for vulnerable community members in Charlottesville. See schedule below. Please use this link to sign-up. Contact Amy Luu at al2hf@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu if you have questions.

• Mondays | 6-7:30 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation
• Tuesdays | 5:30-7 p.m. | Mt. Zion Church 

Patient Care

Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road Opens New OR Spaces

On Tuesday, Sept. 27, UVA Health’s new Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road opened two new operating rooms. On their first day they performed three successful hip surgeries. Congratulations (and thank you!) to the OR teams and to Department Chair Bobby Chhabra, MD, on a successful first day!

Ambulatory

Need to Know: Changes for Flu Vaccine Workflow

The goal in UVA Health ambulatory clinics is to achieve a 90% compliance rate for screening and offering patients flu vaccines with each clinic encounter. Achieving this goal requires that every screening outcome is recorded accurately by documenting:

• Patient declines/deferral/contraindication (NEW); or
• Historical vaccines when a patient has already received a flu vaccine for the season; or 
• Administration of the vaccine during the visit. 

Review this step-by-step overview of the best practice advisory (BPA) changes for 2022-23 to familiarize yourself with the new Ambulatory flu vaccine BPA workflow in Epic that has been updated to reflect these screening outcomes. Find more resources on the Nursing Flu Vaccine intranet page, or contact your clinic manager with questions.

Operations

University Hospital Cafeteria Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the east café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Smishing Alert: Be Wary of Fraudulent Texts

It was recently reported that scammers are using the name of a member of UVA Health leadership to solicit the purchasing of gift cards. If you receive a suspicious text message, do not reply, click on links, or share personal information. And remember, UVA Health leadership will never ask you for payment or personal information via text message. The Federal Communications Commission recently issued an advisory about an uptick in suspicious texts like these. Learn how to identify, report, and protect yourself against smishing attacks.

Leadership

A Few Spots Remain for Nurses and Faculty: Breakfast With the CEO

McKim Hall, Room 3001 | A few slots are left for Dr. Craig Kent’s breakfast and conversation events in the coming months. These small-group breakfasts are a great opportunity for our teams to share their experiences and offer ideas to help shape the future of our organization. Sign up.

Human Resources

Two Days Left to Complete Required Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Open Enrollment Starts Next Week

Oct. 3-14 | Before Benefits Open Enrollment starts for plan year 2023, make sure to review and confirm your benefits early. Resources, presentations, information on changes, important dates, and upcoming benefits events can be found on the Open Enrollment website. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu or call 434.243.3344 to schedule a Zoom appointment to review more complex questions with an HR professional. HR will accommodate as many appointments as possible through Wednesday, Oct. 12.

Starting Soon: UVA Health Engagement Survey

Team members’ voices are essential to helping us achieve our bold new vision of being the nation’s leading public academic health system and best place to work — while transforming patient care, research, education, and engagement within the diverse communities we serve. Our upcoming systemwide engagement survey will invite team members to share their feedback and ideas through these channels:

• Press Ganey Survey | Team members with UVA Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing, and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library can participate Oct. 4-Nov. 11; UVA Community Health team members can participate Nov. 28-Dec. 19.
• Association of American Medical Colleges’ (AAMC) Survey | Will be open to UVA School of Medicine faculty.

Happenings

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

McKim Hall | Ground Floor | Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers who need a headshot (or updated one) for the provider directory are invited to stop by to get their photo taken. No appointment is needed. The shoot should take 10 minutes or less. Please bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. 

• Thursday, Sept. 29 | 9 a.m.-noon
• Friday, Oct. 7 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Oct. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 18 | 7:30-10:30 a.m.
• Monday, Oct. 24 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. [Note: date change]

Recovery Fair and Film Screening of “Tipping the Pain Scale” 

Thursday, Sept. 29 | 4-9:30 p.m. | Ix Art Park, 522 2nd St. SE, Charlottesville | Free Narcan, HIV and hepatitis C testing, safer sex items, giveaways, and art-making. The feature documentary film starts at 7:30 p.m. and follows individuals grappling with the current systemic failures and their journey to develop and employ new, innovative, and often controversial solutions to the problem. Cosponsored by UVA Anesthesiology. Learn more. 

Last Call: Quarterly Hoos Well Rewards 

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | To earn Hoos Well rewards for the third quarter, remember to complete your reward-eligible activities by Sept. 30. From the health assessment to challenges to journeys in the portal, there are many opportunities to earn rewards while improving your well-being. Learn more. 

Hispanic Heritage Month Events

• Webinar: Health Disparities of Severe Asthma Among Hispanic Adults | Wednesday, Oct. 5 | 2-3 p.m. | A discussion of health disparities as it relates to asthma care in the Hispanic community. Presented by The National Hispanic Medical Association. Register.
• Latinx Health Fair hosted by the UVA Latino Health Initiative | Saturday, Oct. 8 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation, 1465 Incarnation Dr., Charlottesville | Free health screenings — blood pressure tests, vision screening, hearing screening, dental counseling, and more — food, giveaways, and childcare. For more information, call 434.272.5910.
• A Tribute to Award-Winning Author Julia Alvarez | Thursday, Oct. 13, and Oct. 18-20 | A virtual discussion and reading marathon. Learn more.

Go Hoos! Special Offers From UVA Athletics

• BOGO Offer: UVA Football vs. Louisville | Saturday, Oct. 8 | Scott Stadium | Virginia Cavaliers football will be facing off against Louisville, and UVA Athletics is offering UVA Health team members a special buy one, get one free ticket offer (two for $22) in the upper level. Reserve now.

Mindfulness Classes

• Advanced Mindful Leadership Training Class | Wednesdays, Oct. 12-Dec. 7 | 4-6 p.m. | Zoom | Register. Learn more.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Class | Mondays, Oct. 17-Dec. 12 | 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Dec. 3 | Zoom | Register.

Appreciation

Virginia Nursing Foundation Honors UVA Health Nursing

The Virginia Nursing Foundation (VNF) recently recognized UVA Health Prince William Medical Center and UVA Health University Medical Center for their respective 2021 Magnet re-designations. At the VNF Annual Gala The Prince William team, represented by Gretchen Key, Michelle Curran, Mimi Kolesar, Jessica Harasek, Alyssa Caudle, Kathy Garrison (Magnet Manager), Diane Van Deusen, Callie Dove, Nilou Settar, and Barbara Hocking were joined by JT Hall (Director of Nursing Professional Practice), who represented UVA Health. The VNF also honored two UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center nurses, Lorretta Nisly and Stephanie Newman. Loretta has been a nurse for more than 30 years. A preceptor for new nurse graduates, she also serves as her department's shared governance co-lead and participates on several committees, such as the Stroke Ready Team, Acute Heart Attack Ready Team, and Sepsis Team. Stephanie is a Nurse Navigator for acute inpatient services. She monitors patient-care standards in disease-specific conditions and diagnosis, and is instrumental in identifying potential barriers of care and delayed discharges. She frequently supports her unit’s successes through the implementation of processes as well as maintaining great outcomes for our patient population. Congratulations to all — and thank you for the excellent patient care you provide!

Monday, Sept. 26, 2022

Tomorrow: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more.

Reminder: You can submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:37 p.m. Sept. 26)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 26)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Reminder: Vaccinators Needed for Several UVA Health Programs

Three groups — Employee Health, Pharmacy, and Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events — are seeking paid volunteer vaccinators.

• Team Member Vaccinations | Employee Health needs support in administering COVID-19 boosters and flu shots to team members on weekdays and weekends. To sign up, contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.
• Homebound Patient Program | The Pharmacy team has opportunities for volunteers to administer vaccines to homebound patients. If interested, please contact Justin Vesser at JLV2J@uvahealth.org.
• Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events | Volunteer MAs, LPNs, and RNs are needed to provide COVID-19 tests and vaccinations at weekly events for vulnerable community members in Charlottesville. See schedule below. Please use this link to sign-up. Contact Amy Luu at al2hf@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu if you have questions.
  • Mondays | 6-7:30 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation
  • Tuesdays | 5:30-7 p.m. | Mt. Zion Church

Operations

Uploading Documents to KnowledgeLink Now Halted Until PolicyTech Go-Live on Oct. 24

The Accreditation and Regulatory Standards team is migrating thousands of Medical Center policies and other clinical and operational files from KnowledgeLink to our new PolicyTech platform. During this time, all existing documents will remain accessible on KnowledgeLink, but no new policies, guidelines, standard operating procedures, protocol orders, or standard work can be uploaded. The PolicyTech go-live is scheduled for Monday, Oct 24. Managers and team members can prepare for this change by accessing educational tools, FAQs, project updates, and more information about the PolicyTech platform here. Read more about the PolicyTech project on Connect.

University Hospital Cafeteria Wants Your Feedback: Take the Survey

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | Morrison Healthcare, UVA Health’s dining vendor, is seeking feedback on your experience at the east café. Fill out a survey to let them know how they did and how they can make your experience better next time. Take the survey now.

Shining Moments

A Look Back at Nursing’s Biggest Highlights From the Past Year

When asked what she’s most proud of about nursing at UVA Health over the past year, one word comes to mind for Jennifer T. “JT” Hall, RN, Director, Nursing Professional Practice: “Grit.” The entire healthcare community has endured through a pandemic, and even though the hospital’s COVID census numbers have dropped and the pandemic is no longer front-page news, nurses and their teams continue to persevere and have learned to thrive in a post-pandemic world. “Despite persistent daily challenges, UVA nurses have continued to deliver amazing care in every practice setting,” Hall says. “The level of engagement in our Nursing Professional Governance committees is very high. I intentionally use the word engagement because nurses are not only participating, they are sharing ideas between committees, problem solving, moving work forward, and being involved in actively improving our structures.” Read more on Connect.

Human Resources

Only Four Days Left to Complete Required Annual Retraining

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Get Ready for Open Enrollment with Events and Presentations

Benefits Open Enrollment for plan year 2023 occurs Oct. 3-14. Make sure to review and confirm your benefits early. Resources, presentations, information on changes, important dates, and upcoming benefits events are all detailed in a Sept. 21 email from UVA Human Resources and posted on Connect. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu or call 434.243.3344 to schedule a Zoom appointment to review more complex questions with an HR professional. HR will accommodate as many appointments as possible through Wednesday, Oct. 12.

Happenings

Eat, Sleep, Console Care Model | Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Practical Screening and Management Series

Wednesday, Sept. 28 | noon-1 p.m. | UVA School of Medicine faculty members Eliza Holland, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, and Santina Zanelli, MD, Professor of Neonatology are presenters. This series is well-suited for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, clinical staff, social workers, and care coordinators — anyone who may be involved with the care of infants. This program is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Health and is part of the Division of Outreach’s ECHO series in Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences. CME credit available. Register.

Active Attacker Prevention, Response, and Notification Training

Tuesday, Oct. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | Newcomb Hall, South Meeting Room | Although incidents of active attackers at universities and medical centers are rare, the impact on the individuals and communities affected cannot be overstated. In this 60-minute training, the Department of Safety & Security will discuss what University Threat Assessment, Emergency Management, and University Police are doing to prevent and, if needed, respond to and notify the UVA community about an active attacker event. 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 Rachel Slotter, Office of Emergency Management, at ras5zm@virginia.edu. Register.

Apply Now: 2022 Charles L. Brown Award

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 2 | 5 p.m. | The Charles L. Brown Award for Patient Care Quality recognizes care teams who work to move our quality and patient safety efforts forward. Sponsored by the Department of Quality and Performance Improvement, this award offers a $10,000 prize for excellence in patient care. Apply here. Questions? Contact Jeff Lucas, Director, Performance Improvement, at 434.243.1755 or jl2bd@virginia.edu.

Appreciation

Celebrating Scrub Tech Week

From Sept. 18-24, UVA Health celebrated National Surgical Technologists Week (also known as Scrub Tech Week) and set aside time to thank our Certified Surgical Technologists (aka, scrub techs). In the Outpatient Surgery Center, a pot-luck breakfast was held and personalized tumblers were filled with candy and gift cards. In the Main OR, lunch was provided and gifts of appreciation were given. (Delicious cupcakes and amazing gift bags!) The OR Nurse Leadership team decorated lockers with UVA balloons and messages about how important the care provided by scrub technologists is to our patients and clinical teams.

Scrub techs are behind-the-scenes heroes. They are skilled and valued team members, trained in aseptic techniques and sterile procedures, and they have knowledge of surgical instrumentation. They are agile and able to think on their feet, and their attention to detail and ability to communicate is a critical skill which they demonstrate daily. UVA Health Certified Surgical Technologists are a vital part of the multidisciplinary surgical team that saves and improves the lives of our patients. Thank you to all of these team members!

PREVIOUS UPDATES

Friday, Sept. 23, 2022

Newsweek Honors UVA Medical Center Among World’s Best Specialized Hospitals

Newsweek has recognized three UVA Health specialties in its newly released 2023 list of the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals. These three specialties also took top honors in Virginia, with Neurosurgery and Oncology ranking No. 1 in the state:

• Neurosurgery: No. 72 | UVA is a pioneer in the use of focused ultrasound – an incisionless form of brain surgery – to treat neurological conditions such as essential tremor and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

• Oncology: No. 211 | Earlier this year, UVA Cancer Center became one of just 53 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, which recognizes the nation’s most outstanding cancer programs. 
• Cardiology: No. 266 | Recent breakthroughs at the UVA Heart and Vascular Center include the discovery that a common gout medication improves survival rates for patients with heart failure, according to a recent study.

Read more on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 2:51 p.m. Sept. 23)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 23)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Reminder: Vaccinators Needed For Several UVA Health Programs

Three groups — Employee Health, Pharmacy, and Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events — are seeking paid volunteer vaccinators.

• Team Member Vaccinations | Employee Health needs support in administering COVID-19 boosters and flu shots to team members on weekdays and weekends. To sign up, contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu. 
• Homebound Patient Program | The Pharmacy team has opportunities for volunteers to administer vaccines to homebound patients. If interested, please contact Justin Vesser at JLV2J@uvahealth.org.
• Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events | Volunteer MAs, LPNs, and RNs are needed to provide COVID-19 tests and vaccinations at weekly events for vulnerable community members in Charlottesville. See schedule below. Please use this link to sign-up. Contact Amy Luu at al2hf@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu if you have questions.

• Mondays | 6-7:30 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation
• Tuesdays | 5:30-7 p.m. | Mt. Zion Church 

Operations

PolicyTech Reminder: Uploading Documents to KnowledgeLink to Halt Until Oct. 24

Migration starts Monday, Sept. 26 | The Accreditation and Regulatory Standards team will begin migrating thousands of Medical Center policies and other clinical and operational files from KnowledgeLink to our new PolicyTech platform. The migration process is expected to take four weeks. During this time, all existing documents will remain accessible on KnowledgeLink, but no new policies, guidelines, standard operating procedures, protocol orders, or standard work can be uploaded. The PolicyTech go-live is scheduled for Monday, Oct 24. Managers and team members can prepare for this change by accessing educational tools, FAQs, project updates, and more information about the PolicyTech platform here. Read more about the PolicyTech project on Connect.

Construction Alert | North Chiller Plant Project

Monday, Sept. 26, to Friday, Sept. 30 | Daily, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | One lane and one sidewalk on Lee Street will be closed in front of the West Complex to work on the North Chiller Plant’s façade repairs project. Cones and flaggers will direct traffic. This work will be ongoing. Future dates will be announced here in the UVA Health Update.

Ambulatory 

New Monthly Ambulatory Clinic Rankings Posted on Data Portal

Our first monthly Ambulatory Clinic Rankings are now posted on the UVA Health Data Portal. These rankings list the Top 10 Performing Clinics and the 10 Most Improved Clinics. The introduction of our rankings is consistent with the objectives of our new strategic plan and with our vision of being a best-in-class provider of ambulatory care in terms of our operations, patient experience, and work environment. You can read about the benefits of this change, the clinics being ranked, and the metrics being used on Connect.

Leadership

Submit Questions Now: Next Week’s UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

A Few Spots Remain: Breakfast With the CEO

McKim Hall, Room 3001 | A few slots are left for Dr. Craig Kent’s breakfast and conversation events in the coming months. These small-group breakfasts are a great opportunity for our teams to share their experiences and offer ideas to help shape the future of our organization. Sign up.

Human Resources

Starting Soon: UVA Health Engagement Survey

Team members’ voices are essential to helping us achieve our bold new vision of being the nation’s leading public academic health system and best place to work — while transforming patient care, research, education, and engagement within the diverse communities we serve. Our upcoming systemwide engagement survey will invite team members to share their feedback and ideas through these channels:

• Press Ganey Survey | Team members with UVA Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing, and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library can participate Oct. 4-Nov. 11; UVA Community Health team members can participate Nov. 28-Dec. 19.
• Association of American Medical Colleges’ (AAMC) Survey | Will be open to UVA School of Medicine faculty.

One Week Left to Complete Required Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. The program includes three required digital courses:

• 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining
• 2022 UVA Health Virginia State Employee Safety, Disaster, and Terrorism Awareness Retraining
• DEI and Cultural Competence Compliance

Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Interested in the Earn While You Learn Program? Here’s How It Helped One Couple Find a Career in Healthcare

It all started during a conversation at the dinner table, when John Jimenez, RN, mentioned the Earn While You Learn program to Arianna Jimenez and Dylan Bartley who had always wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. The on-the-job training and full benefits sounded like a good fit, and they signed up for the program that same night. Read their full story on Connect. Learn more about the Earn While You Learn program. The next hire date is Monday, Oct. 3.

Happenings

Women in Medicine Month Events

• Women in Medicine Network Event | Tuesday, Sept. 27 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Patio, 200 Janette Lancaster Way, Charlottesville | Learn more. RVSP to RWomeninMedicineNetwork@hscmail.mcc.vriginia.edu. 
• Social Media Campaign: Transforming Health Equity One Woman at a Time | Through Friday, Sept. 30 | Join the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement in collaboration with the UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science as they recognize, honor, and celebrate how UVA Health is “transforming equity one woman at a time.” Follow The UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science and other UVA Health departments on social media for a daily dose of women’s empowerment. Like, share, and use #COWMIS #UVAHEALTHODCE #ODCE #WIM #WIMMONTH #WIMMONTH2022 hashtags throughout the month.

Black Faculty and Staff-Employee Resource Group

The Black Faculty and Staff-Employee Resource Group (BFSERG) serves as a representative voice for Black faculty and staff in matters related to intellectual, professional, and emotional betterment within the UVA community and beyond. The group actively engages in the recruitment, mentorship, collegiality, professional development, and retention of its members and promotes an inclusive environment that benefits the University and local communities. Subscribe to the BFSERG newsletter for resource and event information. Learn more.

FEAP Resources: National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

It's National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, and FEAP is encouraging team members to access its Crisis & Care Coordination services and other resources for your well-being support. Schedule a free and confidential 1:1 appointment.

Appreciation

Day of Caring: Dozens of UVA Volunteers Spruced Up the Community

On Wednesday, Sept. 21, volunteers from across UVA fanned out to over 50 locations in and around Charlottesville to trim trees, spread gravel, paint blacktop, and more. It was part of the United Way of Greater Charlottesville’s annual Laurence E. Richardson Day of Caring, which is an annual day of giving back to area schools, trails, and nonprofits. Thank you to those who gave your time and talent to make our community a better place to live! See photos from the event. 

Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022

Employee Health Reports Strong Demand for Updated COVID-19 Boosters 

Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 boosters became available at Employee Health on Monday, Sept. 19, and appointments have been filling up quickly. In response to strong demand, Employee Health is actively recruiting paid volunteer vaccinators which has allowed it to offer both weekday and weekend appointments and to open up more than 1,200 additional time slots through the end of October. Team members can schedule an appointment by logging onto Vaxtrax.

Important Reminder | Employee Health has moved to 400 Brandon Ave. in Charlottesville. Team members should go to this location for their booster shots and all other vaccinations.

Vaccinators Needed For Several UVA Health Programs | Three groups — Employee Health, Pharmacy, and Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events — are seeking paid volunteer vaccinators.

• Team Member Vaccinations | Employee Health needs support in administering COVID-19 boosters and flu shots to team members on weekdays and weekends. To sign up, contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.
• Homebound Patient Program | The Pharmacy team has opportunities for volunteers to administer vaccines to homebound patients. If interested, please contact Justin Vesser at JLV2J@uvahealth.org.
• Community COVID Testing/Vaccination Events | Volunteer MAs, LPNs, and RNs are needed to provide COVID-19 tests and vaccinations at weekly events for vulnerable community members in Charlottesville. (See schedule below.) Please use this link to sign-up. Contact Amy Luu at al2hf@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu if you have questions.
  • Mondays | 6-7:30 p.m. | Church of the Incarnation
  • Tuesdays | 5:30-7 p.m. | Mt. Zion Church

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:21 p.m. Sept. 21)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 21)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Combining COVID Vaccines Shows Promise Against Variants, UVA Researcher Says

Existing mRNA vaccines could be enhanced by pairing them with one that targets a different part of the virus, UVA collaborative research suggests. Read more on Connect.

Ambulatory Operations

Special Shout-Out: Primary Care Teams Expand Services to Include COVID Testing

To meet patient needs, our primary care practices have begun offering COVID testing by appointment. Due to personnel shortages and the needs of our various practices, COVID-19 testing may not yet be available at all locations. Thanks to everyone for overcoming our current staffing challenges to introduce this added service and to help us safely bring patients back in to see their regular clinicians. Way to go, teams!

Operations

Uploading Documents to KnowledgeLink to Halt During Migration to New PolicyTech Platform

Starts Monday, Sept. 26 | KnowledgeLink has been officially decluttered. Hundreds of documents that were outdated and no longer in use have been removed from the site. Managed by the Accreditation and Regulatory Standards team, this significant task has paved the way for the migration of thousands of Medical Center policies and other clinical and operational files from KnowledgeLink to PolicyTech, our new cloud-based document management platform. The migration process and uploading halt will begin on Monday, Sept. 26, and is expected to take four weeks. During this time, all existing documents will remain accessible on KnowledgeLink, but no new policies, guidelines, standard operating procedures, protocol orders, or standard work can be uploaded. The PolicyTech go-live is scheduled for Monday, Oct 24. Managers and team members can prepare for this change by accessing educational tools, FAQs, project updates, and more information about the PolicyTech platform here. Read more about the PolicyTech project on Connect.

Construction Alert | North Chiller Plant Project

Monday, Sept. 26, to Friday, Sept. 30 | Daily, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | One lane and one sidewalk on Lee Street will be closed in front of the West Complex to work on the North Chiller Plant’s façade repairs project. Cones and flaggers will direct traffic. This work will be ongoing. Future dates will be announced here in the UVA Health Update.

Leadership

Call For Questions: Next Week’s UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

Medical Center CEO Blog: Data Helps Us Understand Our Performance

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, discusses how data helps us understand our performance as a health system and informs how we can better serve our patients and team members. Read more.

Human Resources

Get Ready for Open Enrollment with Events and Presentations

Benefits Open Enrollment for plan year 2023 occurs Oct. 3-14. Make sure to review and confirm your benefits early. Resources, presentations, information on changes, important dates, and upcoming benefits events are all detailed in a Sept. 21 email from UVA Human Resources and posted on Connect. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu or call 434.243.3344 to schedule a Zoom appointment to review more complex questions with an HR professional. HR will accommodate as many appointments as possible through Wednesday, Oct. 12.

Happenings

Women in Medicine Month Webinar: Gender Diversity in Leadership

Friday, Sept. 23 | 1 p.m. | Presenters Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD; Iffath Abbasi Hoskins, MD, FACOG; and Darilyn V. Moyer, MD, FACP; discuss pathways to leadership and share insights on the role of organized medicine in facilitating gender equity. Moderated by Susan Thompson Hingle, MD. Learn more and register.

Eat, Sleep, Console Care Model | Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Practical Screening and Management Series

Wednesday, Sept. 28 | noon-1 p.m. | UVA School of Medicine faculty members Eliza Holland, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, and Santina Zanelli, MD, Professor of Neonatology are presenters. This series is well-suited for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, clinical staff, social workers, and care coordinators — anyone who may be involved with the care of infants. This program is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Health and is part of the Division of Outreach’s ECHO series in Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences. CME credit available. Register.

Annual Nursing and Healthcare Education Fair

Wednesday, Oct. 5 | 5-8 p.m. | Virtual and Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Admissions Counselors will be available to discuss healthcare programs, including pharmacy tech, radiology, certified nursing assistant, and nursing programs of all levels. Open to any UVA team member interested in going to school for a different role within healthcare. Learn more.

BOGO Offer: UVA Football vs. Louisville

Saturday, Oct. 8 | Scott Stadium | Early next month, Virginia Cavaliers football will be facing off against Louisville, and UVA Athletics is offering UVA Health team members a special buy one, get one free ticket offer (two for $22) in the upper level. Tickets will be delivered electronically closer to game day. Reserve now.

Earn College Credits and Advance in Your Career With UVA Edge

Deadline for Spring Session: Tuesday, Nov. 1 | UVA Edge is a part-time, online program for working adults. Students earn 20 undergraduate credits while building career and digital skills. UVA Edge is covered by the UVA education benefit for eligible employees and is ideal for students without college experience or with less than 30 credits. Learn more online and join a free virtual information session. Contact edge@virginia.edu with questions.

Appreciation

Earn While Your Learn: How the Program Helped One Couple Find a Future in Healthcare

It began around the kitchen table, as plans for the future often do. Eighteen-year-old Arianna Jimenez and 20-year-old Dylan Bartley both had considered a career in healthcare — someday. But the married couple wasn’t sure how or when they would be able to make this goal a reality. Until, that is, they had dinner with Arianna’s father, John Jimenez, MSN, BSN, RN, a Pediatric Clinical Instructor at UVA School of Nursing. “We were eating dinner and John mentioned the Earn While You Learn (EWYL) program,” says Dylan. “Arianna and I both hopped on the computer and signed up that night.” Now graduates of the EWYL program, Dylan and Arianna are working as certified nursing assistants (CNA) while pursuing their next goal: an RN degree. Both credit the program for giving them the jumpstart they needed to enter the healthcare field.

Beth Mehring, RN, Earn While You Learn Program Manager, says that interest in the program has been tremendous. “We have doubled the capacity of the CNA program and increased the certified medical assistant program by ten. The other two programs — EMT and Phlebotomy — have tripled enrollment since June.” Thank you to Mehring, senior leadership, managers, recruiters, educators, preceptors, nursing professional development specialists, HR onboarding, and all team members who support those who want to take the next, great step in their careers. Read more about Arianna and Dylan’s EWYL journey on Connect.

Monday, Sept. 19, 2022

UVA Health Announces Monkeypox Testing Protocols

Monkeypox infections are an infrequent but growing concern in our community. Providers who are caring for an inpatient with suspected monkeypox should contact Infection Prevention & Control (PIC 1243) or Hospital Epidemiology (PIC 9024) for guidance on the need for testing or further evaluation and management. If testing is recommended, inpatient providers should place orders in Epic using the steps outlined in Organisms of Interest. Outpatient providers should consult with the Hospital Epidemiologist on call (using pager number 9204) who will determine whether the patient needs to be evaluated in the Special Pathogens and COVID Clinic or via e-Consult, Telehealth, or another option. We will be closely monitoring all developments related to monkeypox and keep you informed about any changes in clinical protocols that may be required. Read the full message from Reid Adams, MD, Chief Medical Officer, on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 3:06 p.m. Sept. 19)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 19)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Employee Health Now Offering Bivalent COVID-19 Boosters 

Pfizer bivalent boosters are available by appointment at Employee Health on Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and can be scheduled by logging onto Vaxtrax. At this time, receipt of boosters will be an option, not a requirement, for team members.

Call for Vaccinators | Help Open Up More Appointments for Team Member COVID Bivlanet Booster & Flu Shots

Due to the surge in team member requests for COVID booster shots and the start of our annual flu vaccination clinics, Employee Health is seeking paid volunteer vaccinators to help add more appointments to the calendar. ​​if interested in helping, please contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.

Operations

The Uteam Pharmacy Window Has Reopened!

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday | UVA Outpatient Pharmacy at Education Resource Center | The Uteam window offers a quick and easy way for team members to get prescriptions filled and complete other transactions at the pharmacy. In addition to reopening the Uteam window, the Pharmacy has been working hard to hire, onboard, and train new team members. It has added exciting new technology, including a state-of-the-art robot that can fill more than 100 prescriptions per hour. The department has also enabled new features such as text message notifications, auto-refill, and free home delivery from the specialty pharmacy.

Construction Alert | North Chiller Plant Project

Monday, Sept. 26, to Friday, Sept. 30 | Daily, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | One lane and one sidewalk on Lee Street will be closed in front of the West Complex to work on the North Chiller Plant’s façade repairs project. Cones and flaggers will direct traffic. This work will be ongoing. Future dates will be announced here in the UVA Health Update.

Team Member Notice: Email Migration Project

UVA Health Information and Technology (HIT) is migrating team member email software from Microsoft Outlook to Microsoft 365 (M365), which will enhance collaboration capabilities and provide a consistent email product for all UVA Health entities, including UVA Community Health. The following will be migrated to M365 in a phased approach by the end of the calendar year:

• Team member email accounts
• Shared group email accounts
• Meeting/Resource room calendars

When it is time for your email account to be migrated to M365, you will receive an email from HIT (email@uvahealth.org) that includes instructions and timelines one week before your scheduled migration date. An email reminder will be sent the weekday before the migration (i.e., if your migration is scheduled for a Monday, you will receive your email reminder the Friday before). Notification emails will contain a subject line starting with “Microsoft 365 Migration.” Please be on the lookout for your notification in the coming weeks and months.

Human Resources

Earn While You Learn Program Continues to Hire and Thrive

The Earn While You Learn Program is now hiring for the October Certified Nursing Aide, Certified Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, and Phlebotomy programs. Links to the programs can be found on the Earn While You Learn webpage. The program recently got an important boost from a $50,000 grant from the Truist Foundation. Learn more about the program on Connect.

Happenings

ROSE Program: Drop-Off or Pick Up Reusable Office Supplies

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | The Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. The ROSE Supply Closet is available monthly for dropping off office supplies or taking what you need. The inventory includes a variety of supplies, like envelopes, staplers, and desk lamps. Read more on Connect. 

Race to Donate Blood (and Maybe Win NASCAR Tickets!)

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | noon-5 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor | The American Red Cross, UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products, is facing a severe blood shortage. You can help by donating blood. Appointments required. Swag alert: Give in September to automatically be entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience, including two tickets to a 2023 race of the winner’s choice. Plus, get a coupon for a free haircut at Sport Clips. Terms apply. Sign up for the below dates by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

Excitement Is Building for Tomorrow’s In-Person Ambulatory Hiring Event

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 1-8 p.m. | 2420 Old Ivy Road | Recruiters, hiring managers, and clinic staff will be on site to review resumes and conduct interviews for access associates, client services (transporters and greeters), contact center, licensed practical nurses, medical assistants, radiology and ultrasound technologists, registered nurses (all specialties), respiratory therapists, RN care coordinators, and sleep technicians. Giveaways available, and food trucks will be on site. RSVP to schedule an interview.

Mindfulness Classes

• Free Mindfulness for UVA Healthcare Employees Class | Wednesday, Sept. 21-Nov. 9 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Oct. 29 | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Fontaine Research Park | Register.
• Mindful Eating Class | Friday, Sept. 23-Nov. 18 | 10-noon p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive,  Fontaine Research Park | Register.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Class | Mondays, Oct. 17-Dec. 12 | 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Dec. 3 | Zoom | Register.

Women in Medicine Month Webinar: Gender Diversity in Leadership

Friday, Sept. 23 | 1 p.m. | Presenters Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD; Iffath Abbasi Hoskins, MD, FACOG; and Darilyn V. Moyer, MD, FACP; discuss pathways to leadership and share insights on the role of organized medicine in facilitating gender equity. Moderated by Susan Thompson Hingle, MD. Learn more and register.

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

Apply Now: 2022 Charles L. Brown Award

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 2 | 5 p.m. | The Charles L. Brown Award for Patient Care Quality recognizes care teams who work to move our quality and patient safety efforts forward. Sponsored by the Department of Quality and Performance Improvement, this award offers a $10,000 prize for excellence in patient care. Apply here. Questions? Contact Jeff Lucas, Director, Performance Improvement, at 434.243.1755 or jl2bd@virginia.edu.

Appreciation

Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness

This past weekend, the South Tower of UVA Medical Center was illuminated in blue in honor of our pulmonary fibrosis patients. Pulmonary fibrosis, which causes scarring of lung tissue, is the number one reason why individuals need a lung transplant. Thank you to those on our team who care for these patients and observe September as Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month in their honor. Also, thank you to our facilities team members who made the color change happen — the blue looks outstanding!

Friday, Sept. 16, 2022

Leadership Provides Update About Flu Shots, COVID Boosters, and Monkeypox Vaccinations

UVA Medical Center leadership has announced the launch of multiple vaccination programs for team members, inpatients, outpatients, and the community. Here’s what is planned for team members:

• Flu Vaccination Program | Starts Sept. 26 |Details can be found on the Employee Health Influenza 2022-2023 Season website. FAQs for team members will be posted on the Employee Health website soon and announced in an upcoming UVA Health Update.
• Bivalent COVID-19 Boosters | Starts Sept. 19 | Pfizer bivalent boosters will be available by appointment at Employee Health on Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and can be scheduled by logging onto Vaxtrax. At this time, receipt of boosters will be an option, not a requirement, for team members.
• Monkeypox Vaccinations | As of today, a small number of team members who work in the medical lab have been proactively vaccinated. Anyone who has been exposed or at high risk of infection should contact the Blue Ridge Health District or their primary care provider for evaluation and possible need for testing. [Note: There was an error in previous communications that instructed team members to contact Employee Health if they have been exposed to or are at high risk of Monkeypox infection.]

Read about vaccination plans for inpatients, outpatients, and the community on Connect.

Call for Vaccinators | Help Open Up More Appointments for Team Member Booster & Flu Shots

Due to the surge in team member requests for COVID booster shots and the start of our annual flu vaccination clinics, Employee Health is seeking paid volunteer vaccinators to help add more appointments to the calendar. ​​if interested in helping, please contact vaccine coordinator Valerie Goodman, RN, at VAB4U@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:06 p.m. Sept. 16)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 16)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Test Can ID Patients at Risk for Severe COVID-19, Research Suggests

A genomic test being developed by a Charlottesville company can predict a patient’s risk of developing severe COVID-19, new research from UVA Health suggests. That information could help doctors identify patients at high risk for poor outcomes and quickly begin tailored treatment. Read more on Connect.

Operations

Updated: Parking & Transportation Modifications | Blue, Red, and EIG Permit Holders Commuting to the Medical Center

This is an update on the previously communicated change. Due to an unexpected increase in commuter parking between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., Parking & Transportation must change the time that team members shift from Red at Scott Stadium to Blue at Emmet/Ivy garage. What is changing from prior communications?

• If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
• Additional Blue buses will be assigned to the route to address the change, both in the mornings and the afternoons.

Effective Monday, Sept. 19 | To accommodate increased commuter parking demand, University Transit Service commuter bus routes will change. Read a summary of the changes below, and find more details on the Parking & Transportation website or on this FAQ:

• Parking lot/bus route by arrival time for UVA Health commuters:
  • If arriving before 7 a.m., park in the Red Lots at Scott Stadium, and ride the Red Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
• Summary of changes:
  • The 5-6 a.m. Red Line express loading will shift to the main Red Line bus stop located at the Student Activities Building. The early morning stop from Bryant Hall will be eliminated. Parking at Scott Stadium remains, but all passengers will be served from the main Scott Stadium bus stop located near the Student Activities Building.
  • The Red Line bus serving the Scott Stadium Parking areas will stop service 1 hour earlier at 7 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.
  • Commuters arriving at 7 a.m. or after will park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • Return service from the Medical Center to Scott Stadium will be served by the Orange Line between 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Uteam Pharmacy Window to Reopen

Opens Monday, Sept. 19 | Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday | UVA Outpatient Pharmacy at Education Resource Center | The Uteam window offers a quick and easy way for team members to get prescriptions filled and complete other transactions at the pharmacy. In addition to reopening the Uteam window, the Pharmacy has been working hard to hire, onboard, and train new team members. It has added exciting new technology, including a state-of-the-art robot that can fill more than 100 prescriptions per hour. The department has also enabled new features such as text message notifications, auto-refill, and free home delivery from the specialty pharmacy.

Human Resources

Next Week: UVA Health Orientation Returns to In-person Instruction

Monday, Sept. 19 | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A (masks required) | Human Resources is excited to announce that UVA Health is returning to in-person orientation beginning Sept. 19. Sessions will be for Medical Center new hires only. Also, beginning Sept. 19, all UVA Health new hires will receive a Workday learning module with a recording of the UVA Health orientation presentation. This audience includes new hires in the Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, School of Medicine, and Medical Center travelers and temps. There will be an attestation in the module in which new hires will indicate if they have taken the in-person training or not. If not, they will be prompted to complete the module. Learn more.

Two Weeks Remain to Complete Required Annual Retraining

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. The program includes three required digital courses:

• 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining
• 2022 UVA Health Virginia State Employee Safety, Disaster, and Terrorism Awareness Retraining
• DEI and Cultural Competence Compliance

Reminder emails are being sent during September to managers and team members who have not yet completed their retraining. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Leadership

Garcia-Blanco Appointed to Chair UVA Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology

The School of Medicine has recruited Mariano Garcia-Blanco, MD, PhD, an internationally recognized expert in virology and RNA biology, to lead its Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, effective Jan. 1, 2023. He succeeds Amy Bouton, PhD, who has served as interim chair of the Department since Oct. 1, 2021. Read more on Connect.

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

Breakfast With the CEO: Slots Are Still Available

McKim Hall, Room 3001 | Signups are open for breakfast and conversation with Dr. Craig Kent in the coming months. These small-group breakfasts are a great opportunity for our teams to share their experiences and offer ideas to help shape the future of our organization. Please sign up as your schedule allows.

Happenings

Taking Care of Each Other: National Physician Suicide Prevention Day Is Sept. 17

While feelings of stress and burnout within the healthcare community are not necessarily new, many clinicians are experiencing greater levels of stress and anxiety than ever before due to COVID-19. The rate of suicide among physicians is higher than in the general population. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help. Find resources and learn more on Connect.

Race to Donate Blood (and Maybe Win NASCAR Tickets!)

The American Red Cross, UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products, is facing a severe blood shortage. You can help by donating blood. Appointments required. Swag alert: Give in September to automatically be entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience, including two tickets to a 2023 race of the winner’s choice. Plus, get a coupon for a free haircut to Sport Clips. Terms apply. Sign up for the below dates by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org. Read more on Connect.

• Monday, Sept. 19 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | John Paul Jones Arena main lobby
• Tuesday, Sept. 20 | noon-5 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot Next Monday

McKim Hall | Ground Floor | Room G045 | Physicians and advanced practice providers who need a headshot (or updated one) for the provider directory are invited to stop by to get their photo taken. No appointment is needed. The shoot should take 10 minutes or less. Please bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

• Monday, Sept. 19 | noon.-3 p.m. — note time change
• Thursday, Sept. 29 | 9 a.m.-noon
• Friday, Oct. 7 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Oct. 12 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 18 | 7:30-10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 25 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Excitement Is Building for the In-Person Ambulatory Hiring Event

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 1-8 p.m. | 2420 Old Ivy Road | Recruiters, hiring managers, and clinic staff will be on site to review resumes and conduct interviews for access associates, client services (transporters and greeters), contact center, licensed practical nurses, medical assistants, radiology and ultrasound technologists, registered nurses (all specialties), respiratory therapists, RN care coordinators, and sleep technicians. Giveaways available, and food trucks will be on site. RSVP to schedule an interview.

Women in Medicine Month Webinar: Gender Diversity in Leadership

Friday, Sept. 23 | 1-2 p.m. | A special Women’s History Month webinar on gender diversity in leadership. Discuss pathways to leadership and share insights on the role of organized medicine in facilitating gender equity. Learn more. Register. See more events and learning opportunities on Connect.

Appreciation

Sometimes It’s the Little Things …

Sherri Davis, clinical coordinator, has been a dedicated UVA employee for over 35 years. She takes pride in knowing that not only her home team — ultrasound in Radiology and Medical Imaging — is taken care of, but also its sister unit, ultrasound procedures. Sherri is constantly seeking ways she can be helpful, increase learning opportunities, and be more involved. She is often the first to volunteer for departmental quality-improvement projects and, if there is an event to plan, Sherri always signs up to help. She is creative, helpful, kind, smart, loving, and truly dedicated to the success of everything she is involved with for her department. Recently, Sherri wanted to do something special for our transporter team members to let them know that they are appreciated for picking up and dropping off patients. She came to work with a big box and colored paper and got to work on her new appreciation project: bags of Goldfish crackers with notes that say, “O-fish-ally you are awesome! Thank you for transporting our patients.” While it’s just a small snack and a brief note, the gesture is enormous. Thank you to Sherri for this act of generosity and, of course, to our transport team, who are, indeed, “o-fish-ally” awesome!

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022

The 2023 Open Enrollment Site Is Live

You can now access the 2023 Open Enrollment website for benefits changes that will take effect Jan. 1, 2023. Open enrollment occurs Oct. 3-14, and now is the time to prepare: review benefits changes, find resources and tools, mark your calendar for important dates, and more. Find details in the Sept. 14 email from HR, or read more on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 3:08 p.m. Sept. 14)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 14)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Operations

Updated: Parking & Transportation Modifications | Blue, Red, and EIG Permit Holders Commuting to the Medical Center

This is an update on the previously communicated change. Due to an unexpected increase in commuter parking between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., Parking & Transportation must change the time that team members shift from Red at Scott Stadium to Blue at Emmet/Ivy garage.

What is changing from prior communications? 

• If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blueline to/from the Medical Center.
• Additional Blue buses will be assigned to the route to address the change, both in the mornings and the afternoons. 

Effective Monday, Sept. 19 | To accommodate increased commuter parking demand, University Transit Service commuter bus routes will change. Read a summary of the changes below, and find more details on the Parking & Transportation website:

• Parking lot/bus route by arrival time for UVA Health commuters:
  • If arriving before 7 a.m., park in the Red Lots at Scott Stadium, and ride the Redline to/from the Medical Center.
  • If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blueline to/from the Medical Center.
• Summary of changes:
  • The 5-6 a.m. Red Line express loading will shift to the main Red Line bus stop located at the Student Activities Building. The early morning stop from Bryant Hall will be eliminated. Parking at Scott Stadium remains, but all passengers will be served from the main Scott Stadium bus stop located near the Student Activities Building.
  • The Redline bus serving the Scott Stadium Parking areas will stop service 1 hour earlier at 7 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.
  • Commuters arriving at 7 a.m. or after will park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • Return service from the Medical Center to Scott Stadium will be served by the Orange Line between 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Uteam Pharmacy Window to Reopen

Opens Monday, Sept. 19 | Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday | UVA Outpatient Pharmacy at Education Resource Center | In addition to reopening the Uteam window, the Pharmacy has been working hard to hire, onboard, and train new team members. It has added exciting new technology, including a state-of-the-art robot that can fill more than 100 prescriptions per hour. The department has also enabled new features such as text message notifications, auto-refill, and free home delivery from the specialty pharmacy.

Human Resources

Next Week: UVA Health Orientation Returns to In-person Instruction

Monday, Sept. 19 | 8-11 a.m. | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A (masks required) | Human Resources is excited to announce that UVA Health is returning to in-person orientation beginning Sept. 19. Sessions will be for Medical Center new hires only. Also, beginning Sept. 19, all UVA Health new hires will receive a Workday learning module with a recording of the UVA Health orientation presentation. This audience includes new hires in the Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, School of Medicine, and Medical Center travelers and temps. There will be an attestation in the module in which new hires will indicate if they have taken the in-person training or not. If not, they will be prompted to complete the module. Learn more.

Leadership

Medical Center CEO Blog: Taking Pride in Our Collective Work

In her new Vision and Voice blog post, Wendy Horton, Medical Center CEO, asks what makes you most proud to work at UVA Health? Those with more pride in their work have a deeper sense of purpose, are consistently in a better mood, have increased self-respect, and are more productive. Read more.

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

Happenings

Hispanic Heritage Month Events

• Hispanic Heritage Month With Gabriela Garcia Largen | Thursday, Sept. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Virtual | Special guest Gabriela Garcia Largen will discuss Mexico and the city of Guadalajara where she grew up and why it means so much to her. Register.
• Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Ceremony | Thursday, Sept. 15 | 3-4 p.m. | Virtual | Connect with others from across the country to elevate the Hispanic community and celebrate their role moving the country forward. Register. 
• Cville Sabroso: 2022 Charlottesville Sabroso Free Latinx Festival | Saturday, Sept. 17 | 2-9 p.m. | Washington Park, 1001 Preston Ave., Charlottesville | The festival celebrates Latin American culture through food, music, dance, and art. More info.

Closing Soon: 2022-23 Jefferson Trust Annual Grants

Deadline for Letter of Intent: Thursday, Sept. 15 | The Jefferson Trust funds ideas and fosters innovation. Its annual grants cycle is now open for the 2022-23 academic year and is open to all University of Virginia students, faculty, and staff. If you need funding for an innovative idea or want to radically expand an existing program or project, consider applying. Learn more.

Apply Now: Administrative Fellowship Program

Deadline to apply: Friday, Sept. 16 | The UVA Medical Center Administrative Fellowship Program provides individuals with a post-graduate experience in an academic medical center to better prepare them as a healthcare leader. Apply through Workday or use the QR codes on this flier. Questions? Contact Libby Melzer at AdminFellow@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu or 434.982.3440. Read more on Connect.

FEAP: Train Your Mind, Change Your Life

Thursday, Sept. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | NIH-funded clinical health psychologist Dr. Ruth Q. Wolever will share how practicing skills from a scientifically validated framework of mindfulness skills can dramatically improve your health and performance and capacity to settle your mind, broaden your perspective, sharpen your focus, and enhance your quality of life. Learn more. This webinar kicks off the Hoos Well reward-eligible 1% Challenge.

Sign Up to Donate Blood

The American Red Cross, UVA Health’s primary supplier of blood products, is facing a severe blood shortage. You can help by donating blood. Appointments required. Swag alert: Give in September to automatically be entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience, including two tickets to a 2023 race of the winner’s choice. Plus, get a coupon for a free haircut to Sport Clips. Terms apply. Sign up for the below dates by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting redcrossblood.org.

• Monday, Sept. 19 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | John Paul Jones Area main lobby
• Tuesday, Sept. 20 | noon-5 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building, First Floor

ROSE Program: Drop-Off or Pick Up Reusable Office Supplies

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | The Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. The ROSE Supply Closet is available monthly for dropping off office supplies or taking what you need. The inventory includes a variety of supplies, like envelopes, staplers, and desk lamps. Read more on Connect. 

Mindfulness Classes

• Free Mindfulness for UVA Healthcare Employees Class | Wednesdays, Sept. 21-Nov. 9 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Oct. 29 | 560 Ray C. Hunt Dr., Fontaine Research Park | Register.
• Mindful Eating Class | Fridays, Sept. 23-Nov. 18 | 10-noon p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Dr.,  Fontaine Research Park | Register.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Class | Mondays, Oct. 17-Dec. 12 | 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Dec. 3 | Zoom | Register.

Earn College Credits and Advance in Your Career with UVA Edge

Deadline for Spring Session: Tuesday, Nov. 1 | UVA Edge is a part-time, online program for working adults. Students earn 20 undergraduate credits while building career and digital skills. UVA Edge is covered by the UVA education benefit for eligible employees and is ideal for students without college experience or with less than 30 credits. Learn more online, and join a free virtual information session. Contact edge@virginia.edu with questions.

Appreciation

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Tomorrow, Sept. 15, is the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, a celebration to acknowledge, bring awareness to, and celebrate the history, life experiences, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx community at UVA Health and broader society. For us at UVA Health, it is important to be aware of the health disparities Hispanic and Latino communities experience and how we can use our position in healthcare to improve healthcare and life expectancy for this population. The first Latino student at the UVA School of Medicine was Dr. Manuel Marxuach of the class of 1899. The first Latina student was Dr. Gladys Pietri Sutherland of the class of 1950 (pictured; fourth row, second from the left). Thank you to those who led the way for the Hispanic community at UVA and our current generations for making that path wider and easier to access for generations ahead.

Monday, Sept. 12, 2022

In-Person Ambulatory Hiring Event

Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 1-8 p.m. | 2420 Old Ivy Road | Recruiters, hiring managers, and clinic staff will be on site to review resumes and conduct interviews for access associates, client services (transporters and greeters), contact center, licensed practical nurses, medical assistants, radiology and ultrasound technologists, registered nurses (all specialties), respiratory therapists, RN care coordinators, and sleep technicians. Giveaways available, and food trucks will be on site. RSVP to schedule an interview.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 12:38 p.m. Sept. 12)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 12)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Operations

Monthly Epic Update: Changes Go Live Tuesday, Sept. 13

This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334. Also: Providers interested in honing their Epic skills can check out the monthly Epic Happy ½ Hour video series from Dr. Mark Lepsch where he shares his best Epic efficiency tips.

Uteam Pharmacy Window to Reopen

Opens Monday, Sept. 19 | Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday | In addition to reopening the Uteam window, the Pharmacy has been working hard to hire, onboard, and train new team members. It has added exciting new technology, including a state-of-the-art robot that can fill more than 100 prescriptions per hour. The department has also enabled new features such as text message notifications, auto-refill, and free home delivery from the specialty pharmacy.

Updated: Parking & Transportation Modifications | Blue, Red, and EIG Permit Holders Commuting to the Medical Center

This is an update on the previously communicated change. Due to an unexpected increase in commuter parking between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., Parking & Transportation must change the time that team members shift from Red Line at Scott Stadium to Blue Line at Emmet/Ivy garage. What is changing from prior communications?

• If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
• Additional Blue Line buses will be assigned to the route to address the change, both in the mornings and the afternoons.

Effective Monday, Sept. 19 | To accommodate increased commuter parking demand, University Transit Service commuter bus routes will change. Read a summary of the changes below, and find more details on the Parking & Transportation website:

• Parking lot/bus route by arrival time for UVA Health commuters:
  • If arriving before 7 a.m., park in the Red Lots at Scott Stadium, and ride the Red Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • If arriving after 7 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
• Summary of changes:
  • The 5-6 a.m. Red Line express loading will shift to the main Red Line bus stop located at the Student Activities Building. The early morning stop from Bryant Hall will be eliminated. Parking at Scott Stadium remains, but all passengers will be served from the main Scott Stadium bus stop located near the Student Activities Building.
  • The Red Line bus serving the Scott Stadium Parking areas will stop service 1 hour earlier at 7 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.
  • Commuters arriving at 7 a.m. or after will park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • Return service from the Medical Center to Scott Stadium will be served by the Orange Line between 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Shining Moments

A Few Year-End Numbers Tell the Story of an Outstanding Team

Our institution has an abundance of numbers: lab values and days in the hospital and dollars and FTEs and deadlines and supplies and all manner of data critical to the daily function of an academic medical center. A new Connect article provides just a small sampling of some impressive year-end numbers and accolades for UVA Health. Thanks to you and your colleagues for making those numbers real, and for translating them in meaningful ways to advance our clinical, research, education, and community missions. These are numbers of which we should all be proud.

Human Resources

Call for Volunteers: Family Support Collab

The Family Support Collab is committed to driving solutions to the diverse caregiving challenges our team members face. The Collab team will be gathering this fall to discuss the next phase of work and is seeking a few volunteer representatives from UVA Medical Center who are tuned into caregiving issues. For more information, visit the Family Support Collab site or email Nic Miceli at nb5bk@virginia.edu.

Reminder: Quarterly Hoos Well Rewards

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | To earn Hoos Well rewards for the third quarter, remember to complete your reward-eligible activities by Sept. 30. From the health assessment to challenges to journeys in the portal, there are many opportunities to earn rewards while improving your well-being. Learn more.

Happenings

Physicians and APPs: Get Your Provider Directory Headshot at Fontaine Research Park This Week

Physicians and advanced practice providers working at Fontaine Research Park can get a new headshot for the provider directory during a walk-in photo session this week.

• Thursday, Sept. 15 | 3-6 p.m. | Fontaine 450 | Aurbach Medical Research Building | Room 1229
• No appointment is needed.
• The shoot should take 10 minutes or less.
• Please bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Practical Screening and Management Series

Session 1: NAS Epidemiology and Parental Consideration | Wednesday, Sept. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Two UVA School of Medicine faculty members — Eliza Holland, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, and Santina Zanelli, MD, Professor of Neonatology — will present this series, which is well-suited for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and clinical staff, social workers, and care coordinators — anyone who may be involved with the care of infants. This program is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Health and is part of the Division of Outreach’s ECHO series in Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences. CME credit available. Register. Details:

• Session 2 Details: Eat, Sleep, Console Care Model | Wednesday, Sept. 28 | noon-1 p.m.

FEAP: Train Your Mind, Change Your Life

Thursday, Sept. 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | NIH-funded clinical health psychologist Dr. Ruth Q. Wolever will share how practicing skills from a scientifically validated framework of mindfulness skills can dramatically improve your health and performance and capacity to settle your mind, broaden your perspective, sharpen your focus, and enhance your quality of life. Learn more. This webinar kicks off the Hoos Well reward-eligible 1% Challenge.

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on the new UVA Health Strategic Plan, top initiatives, and latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more. Submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu now or during the event.

Apply Now: 2022 Charles L. Brown Award

Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 2 | 5 p.m. | The Charles L. Brown Award for Patient Care Quality recognizes care teams who work to move our quality and patient safety efforts forward. Sponsored by the Department of Quality and Performance Improvement, this award offers a $10,000 prize for excellence in patient care. Apply here. Questions? Contact Jeff Lucas, Director, Performance Improvement, at 434.243.1755 or jl2bd@virginia.edu.

Appreciation

Shout Out to the Hoos Building Bridges Awardees!

This year’s Hoos Building Bridges Award winners were honored at a recent reception in the Rotunda Dome Room. UVA President James Ryan presented certificates to 11 individuals and two teams. The awards celebrated cross-disciplinary partnerships and projects among UVA team members and honored recipients for their leadership and efforts in establishing strong relationships that help get things done across Grounds. The University launched the awards in 2019, building on a vision President Ryan outlined in his first Opening Convocation address — a University community of people who, when in doubt, “build a bridge.” Winners received a framed certificate and monetary award.

UVA Health’s individual winners include Kayla Calvo, Diane Farineau, Beth Jaeger-Landis, Kathleen Rea, and Abby Self. Our team awardees are on the Cancer Center’s Colorectal Screening team, which include Dr. Cynthia Yoshida, Shari Stanley, Wendy Cohn, Lindsay Hauser, Erin Kennedy, and Ann Rigdon. Congratulations to all — thank you for your amazing work. Read more about all of the awardees and their projects.

Friday, Sept. 9, 2022

Forbes Ranks UVA Health Among Best Employers in Virginia

Forbes, a national business publication, has ranked UVA Health No. 11 among the best employers in Virginia in its annual Best Employers By State list. UVA Health is the top Virginia-based health system in the Forbes state-by-state rankings. Survey respondents were asked about the safety of their workplace, compensation, advancement opportunities, openness to telecommuting, and how likely they would be to recommend their employer to potential employees. Read the full story on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 2:35 p.m. Sept. 9)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 9)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

Operations

Epic Updates Streamline Steps for Autonomous Nurse Practitioners

Effective immediately, autonomous NPs will no longer need to enter a supervising type or supervising provider when logging into Epic. This update should require less clicks at login and allow the autonomous NP’s name to populate the billing provider field. Also, when completing inpatient charge captures, autonomous NPs will no longer need to put a supervising provider’s name into the billing provider field. Significant updates were made to Epic coding edits, claims, and provider record configuration to ensure the success of these changes without impacting care or interrupting professional billing. Please direct questions related to this update to ASKUPGACC@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu.

Construction Alert | Temporary Oxygen Tanks In-Use for West Complex

Through Friday, Sept. 30 | 7 a.m. | Oxygen lines to the West Complex have been switched over to temporary tanks due to Cobb Hall construction. This change should not affect oxygen availability. If there are any unexpected issues related to the outage, please contact the Health System Physical Plant Help Desk at 434.924.2267. Normal service will be restored on Sept. 30.

Construction Alert | Lane Road

Saturday, Sept. 10 | 7 a.m.-noon | Lane Road will be partially closed between the hospital’s loading dock and Crispell Drive and will impact M11 permit holders. Parallel parking in front of MR-4 will be closed during this time, and access to the loading dock will be limited. The remainder of M11 will remain available. Pedestrians should use the sidewalk in front of MR-4.

Reminder: Team Members Should Direct Food Deliveries to Loading Dock

All food deliveries coming to University Hospital and the Emergency Department must be directed to the loading dock. Drivers waiting for team members to come retrieve deliveries block the circle and prevent access by patients and visitors. Team members at the front door and information desks cannot take responsibility for food deliveries. When ordering from a restaurant or delivery service (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats), please use “UVA Hospital Loading Dock, 0 Lane Road” for the address and provide the full name and unit/clinic of the responsible team member. A table has been set up so drivers can drop-off food at the loading dock.

Monthly Epic Update: Changes Go Live Tuesday, Sept. 13

This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient LIPs, nurses, and therapy services. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Questions? Contact the Help Desk at 434.924.5334. Also: Providers interested in honing their Epic skills can check out the monthly Epic Happy ½ Hour video series from Dr. Mark Lepsch where he shares his best Epic efficiency tips.

Leadership

Shayn Peirce-Cottler, PhD, Appointed to Chair UVA Department of Biomedical Engineering

Professor Peirce-Cottler, will assume her new role on Sept. 15. At UVA, she serves as the BME graduate program director and has also taught courses on engineering and design, entrepreneurship, computational systems modeling, and cell and molecular biology to undergraduate students, graduate students, and medical school students. She has held leadership positions both locally and nationally and her efforts have been widely recognized. Read more on Connect.

Human Resources

Team Member Engagement Survey Starts Soon

To give team members an opportunity to share their feedback and ideas, UVA Health will conduct a systemwide engagement survey this fall. All team members, with the exception of School of Medicine faculty, will participate in a survey administered by Press Ganey. UVA School of Medicine faculty will participate in the Association of American Medical Colleges’ engagement survey. Dates:

• UVA Medical Center, UVA Physicians Group, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing, and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library: Oct. 4-Nov. 11.
• UVA Community Health: Nov. 28-Dec. 19.

Three Weeks Remain to Complete Required Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. The program includes three required digital courses:

• 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining
• 2022 UVA Health Virginia State Employee Safety, Disaster, and Terrorism Awareness Retraining
• DEI and Cultural Competence Compliance

Reminder emails are being sent during September to managers and team members who have not yet completed their retraining. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Call for Volunteers: Family Support Collab

The Family Support Collab is committed to driving solutions to the diverse caregiving challenges our team members face. The Collab team will be gathering this fall to discuss the next phase of work and is seeking a few volunteer representatives from UVA Medical Center who are tuned into caregiving issues. For more information, visit the Family Support Collab site or email Nic Miceli at nb5bk@virginia.edu.

Happenings

Corner Juice Proceeds Benefit UVA Cancer Center

Through Sunday, Sept. 11 | In honor of a cancer patient who found comfort in their custom smoothies, Corner Juice is donating a portion of the proceeds of “The Emmie” smoothie sales to the UVA Cancer Center. Locations are on The Corner (1509 University Ave.) and on the Downtown Mall (next to The Paramount).

Nominate a Colleague for a Uteam Member of the Month Award

Deadline: 15th of every month | This program recognizes team members each month for their outstanding service to UVA Health and commitment to our ASPIRE values. Any team member, patient, or visitor may nominate an eligible team member, including individuals from UVA Medical Center, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and UVA Physicians Group. Nominations should be at least one paragraph in length and include at least two examples of how the nominee demonstrates ASPIRE values. Nominate a colleague now.

Virtual Meditation on the Lawn

Monday, Sept. 12 | 7:45-8 a.m. | Each Monday morning during the semester, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of UVA gather synchronously online for a moment of reflection. Learn more and register.

Women in Medicine Month Events

• Social Media Campaign: Transforming Health Equity One Woman at a Time | Through Sept. 30 | Join the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement in collaboration with the UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science as they recognize, honor, and celebrate how UVA Health is “transforming equity one woman at a time.” Follow The UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science and other UVA Health departments on social media for a daily dose of women’s empowerment. Like, share, and use #COWMIS #UVAHEALTHODCE #ODCE #WIM #WIMMONTH #WIMMONTH2022 hashtags throughout the month.

• Webinar: One World, One War Against COVID- What Next? | Thursday, Sept. 13 | 8-9 p.m. | Women physicians and leaders from Asia, Africa, Western Pacific, and North America share their experiences, challenges, and best practices during the pandemic. Register.
• Women in Medicine Summit | Friday, Sept. 16, to Saturday, Sept. 17 | Chicago or virtual | A conference designed to amplify the lives of women in medicine and work towards gender parity in healthcare. Register.

See more events and learning opportunities on Connect.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Practical Screening and Management Series

Two UVA School of Medicine faculty members — Eliza Holland, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, and Santina Zanelli, MD, Professor of Neonatology — will present this series, which is well-suited for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and clinical staff, social workers, and care coordinators—anyone who may be involved with the care of infants. This program is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Health and is part of the Division of Outreach’s ECHO series in Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences. CME credit available. Register. Details:

• NAS Epidemiology and Parental Consideration | Wednesday, Sept. 14 | noon-1 p.m. 
• Eat, Sleep, Console Care Model | Wednesday, Sept. 28 | noon-1 p.m.

Appreciation

UVA Health to Expand Earn While You Learn Program, Thanks to $50,000 Grant

With the Earn While You Learn program, UVA Health has been making it easier for team members and community members to access careers in healthcare by providing paid on-the-job training for a variety of roles. Recently, a national financial company took notice of the program’s success. The Truist Foundation granted $50,000 to UVA Health to expand the program. On Wednesday, UVA Health leaders accepted the grant, which will be used to broaden the program’s outreach to participants whose first language is not English. Read the full story on Connect.

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall

Tuesday, Sept. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Livestreamed event | As we bid farewell to summer, UVA Health is excited to update our teams on top initiatives and the latest developments for our organization. Please join K. Craig Kent, MD, CEO of UVA Health, and other UVA Health leaders to learn more.

Reminder: You can submit questions to YourTownHall@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu — now or during the town hall event.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:26 p.m. Sept. 7)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 7)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

Ambulatory

Special Shout Out: Primary Care Scheduling Pod

The front desk team at UVA Primary & Specialty Care Pantops is now spending less time answering phones and more time focusing on patients, thanks to a collaboration with the Primary Care Scheduling Pod. Working together, the clinic and Patient Friendly Access teams have been routing more than 100 incoming calls a day from the front desk to the Scheduling Pod. Thank you, Pod team, for stepping up and helping to better serve our patients!

Operations

Reminder: Request Flu Shot To-Go Kits by Friday, Sept. 9

To-Go Kits are available to work groups that designate a Flu Vaccine Champion who will administer vaccinations and enter documentation in VaxTrax. Kits can be ordered by completing the To-Go Kit request form and sending it to fluvax@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu. Find complete details about our 2022-2023 influenza vaccine season here.

To-Go Kits can be picked up on Mondays, beginning Sept. 26, at two different times/locations:

• 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Employee Health, 400 Brandon Ave. (free parking on Monroe Lane)
• 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms at UVA Medical Center 

Construction Alert | West Complex Switching to Temporary Oxygen Tanks

Friday, Sept. 9, to Friday, Sept. 30 | 7 a.m. | Oxygen lines to the West Complex will be switched over to temporary tanks due to Cobb Hall construction. This change should not affect oxygen availability. If there are any unexpected issues related to the outage, please contact the Health System Physical Plant Help Desk at 434.924.2267. Normal service will be restored on Sept. 30.

Construction Alert | Lane Road

Saturday, Sept. 10 | 7 a.m.-noon | Lane Road will be partially closed between the hospital’s loading dock and Crispell Drive and will impact M11 permit holders. Parallel parking in front of MR-4 will be closed during this time, and access to the loading dock will be limited. The remainder of M11 will remain available. Pedestrians should use the sidewalk in front of MR-4.

Parking & Transportation Modifications | Blue, Red, and EIG Permit Holders Commuting to the Medical Center

Effective Monday, Sept. 19 | To accommodate increased commuter parking demand, University Transit Service commuter bus routes will change. Read a summary of the changes below, and find more details on the Parking & Transportation website:

• Parking lot/bus route by arrival time for UVA Health commuters:
  • If arriving before 7:30 a.m., park in the Red Lots at Scott Stadium, and ride the Redline to/from the Medical Center
  • If arriving after 7:30 a.m., park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage, and ride the Blueline to/from the Medical Center
• Summary of changes:
  • The 5-6 a.m. Red Line express loading will shift to the main Red Line bus stop located at the Student Activities Building. The early morning stop from Bryant Hall will be eliminated. Parking at Scott Stadium remains, but all passengers will be served from the main Scott Stadium bus stop located near the Student Activities Building.
  • The Redline bus serving the Scott Stadium Parking areas will stop service 30 minutes earlier at 7:30 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.
  • Commuters arriving at 7:30 a.m. or after will park in the Emmet/Ivy Garage and ride the Blue Line to/from the Medical Center.
  • Return service from the Medical Center to Scott Stadium will be served by the Orange Line between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Coming Soon: Uteam Pharmacy Window to Reopen

Opens Monday, Sept. 19 | Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday | In addition to reopening the Uteam window, the Pharmacy has been working hard to hire, onboard, and train new team members. It has added exciting new technology, including a state-of-the-art robot that can fill more than 100 prescriptions per hour. The department has also enabled new features such as text message notifications, auto-refill, and free home delivery from the specialty pharmacy.

Leadership

Breakfast With the CEO: Slots Are Still Available

McKim Hall, Room 3001 | Signups are open for breakfast and conversation with Dr. Craig Kent in the coming months. These small-group breakfasts are a great opportunity for our teams to share their experiences and offer ideas to help shape the future of our organization. Please sign up as your schedule allows.

Human Resources

Join the 1% Challenge

Through Friday, Oct. 7 | Earn $50 in Hoos Well rewards by spending 14 minutes a day for 25 days mastering mindfulness skills scientifically proven to improve your health, happiness, and performance. Through the challenge, you'll have the support of experienced teachers and online resources. Learn more.

Call for Volunteers: Family Support Collab

The Family Support Collab is committed to driving solutions to the diverse caregiving challenges our team members face. The Collab team will be gathering this fall to discuss the next phase of work and is seeking a few volunteer representatives from UVA Medical Center who are tuned into caregiving issues. For more information, visit the Family Support Collab site or email Nic Miceli at nb5bk@virginia.edu.

Earn While You Learn Program Continues to Hire and Thrive

The Earn While You Learn Program is now hiring for the October Certified Nursing Aide, Certified Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, and Phlebotomy programs. Links to the programs can be found on the Earn While You Learn webpage. The program recently got an important boost from a $50,000 grant from the Truist Foundation. Learn more about the program on Connect.

Happenings

Special Blood Drive for UVA Pediatric Sickle Cell Program and Be the Match Bone Marrow Registry

Thursday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center | Conference Room | 1204 West Main St. | Battle Building, First Floor | UVA Health will be holding a special blood drive to benefit our pediatric sickle cell program through the UVA Pediatric Sickle Cell Clinic. These patients need your help to live, so please sign up to donate. Check out this video from The American Red Cross, and read why blood-donor diversity is important. Swag alert: Give Sept. 1-30 and receive a free haircut coupon from Sport Clips Haircuts. Terms apply. Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting RedCrossBlood.org and using the sponsor code UVAPEDS. Learn more.

• Be the Match | Thursday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building Lobby | In conjunction, a table will be set up with information about bone marrow donation and how to sign up for the Be the Match registry. A simple cheek swab is all it takes to join the national registry of donors. Donors stand ready to say “YES” if selected as a match to save the life of a patient in need. Learn more.

Corner Juice Proceeds Benefit UVA Cancer Center

Through Sunday, Sept. 11 | In honor of a cancer patient who found comfort in their custom smoothies, Corner Juice is donating a portion of the proceeds of “The Emmie” smoothie sales to the UVA Cancer Center. Locations are on The Corner (1509 University Ave.) and on the Downtown Mall (next to The Paramount).

Virtual Meditation on the Lawn

Monday, Sept. 12 | 7:45-8 a.m. | Each Monday morning during the semester, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of UVA gather synchronously online for a moment of reflection. Learn more and register.

Annual Nursing and Healthcare Education Fair

Wednesday, Oct. 5 | 5-8 p.m. | Virtual and Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Admissions Counselors will be available to discuss healthcare programs, including pharmacy tech, radiology, certified nursing assistant, and nursing programs of all levels. Open to any UVA team member interested in going to school for a different role within healthcare. Learn more.

Go Hoos! Special Offers From UVA Athletics

• Season Ticket Discounts for UVA Health Team Members | Full-time UVA Health team members are eligible to purchase up to four season tickets for each sport at a 20% discount in most seating areas. Women’s basketball tickets are on sale at this time. Season tickets for baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s lacrosse will be available at a later date. Buy now.
• Get 2 Free Football Tickets | Saturday, Oct. 8 | Scott Stadium | UVA Health team members are eligible to receive two complimentary tickets to the Virginia Cavaliers home football game against Louisville. Tickets will be delivered electronically closer to game day. Additional tickets are $50 in sections 114-115 and $38 in sections 130-131. Reserve now.

Appreciation

Thank You to Our Outstanding Clinical Nurse Specialists!

Today is the last day of National Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Week (Sept. 1-7). We hope you took time this week to recognize the critical functions that our CNSs provide within UVA Health and among our Advanced Practice Provider ranks. (If you haven’t yet had a chance to show your appreciation to this outstanding group — you can do it tomorrow. We won’t tell.) CNS Week is an annual event that acknowledges the contributions of the nearly 90,000 CNSs in North America. Over the course of this year, UVA Health CNSs continued to demonstrate a depth of flexibility, expertise, and collaboration. Each CNS adapted to the needs of both their respective populations served and the organization, displaying the flexibility and diversity of the role. From designing population-based programs of care, to advancing the practice of nursing as a leader and change agent, the CNS team used evidence-based practices to direct care and lead interprofessional teams. Numerous team members have been recognized locally, regionally, and nationally for their contributions to practice through publication, podcasts, and formal awards. They are leaving their mark on CNS practice and recognized as a prominent team! Thank you Clinical Nurse Specialists: We honor and celebrate your contributions and service to patients, interprofessional teams, and UVA Health!

Friday, Sept. 2, 2022

UVA Health Is No Longer Offering Original Formulation of COVID Booster Shots

Supplies of New Boosters Coming Soon | This week, the FDA granted Emergency Use Authorization to the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna for use as booster shots. At the same time, it deauthorized the use of the original COVID-19 vaccines as booster shots in patients ages 12 and older. UVA Health clinic and pharmacy teams have responded quickly to this change by canceling booster-shot appointments and taking steps to ensure we comply with FDA and CDC recommendations. Supplies of the new booster vaccines are expected to arrive later this month. Read the message from UVA Health leadership on Connect.

COVID-19

Current Patient Census (as of 1:06 p.m. Sept. 2)

Workforce Impact (as of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 2)
UVA Health team members affected and on leave

(Information source: UVA Health Data Portal)
COVID-19 Dashboard | COVID-19 Resources

COVID Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Will No Longer Be Free; Expense to Patients Should Be Considered in Treatment Decisions

Bebtelovimab, the only monoclonal antibody currently available through FDA Emergency-Use Authorization to treat COVID, has shifted from being distributed exclusively by the U.S. government to being commercially available. Distribution by the U.S. government meant that patients received the drug for free and were only charged a facility fee for the infusion process. Now that bebetlovimab is commercially available, it is no longer free, and patients will be charged for both the drug and infusion. Medicaid and Medicare are planning to cover the drug cost, and private payers have not yet announced their decision.

UVA Health is expected to begin charging patients for bebtelovimab in the near future, and providers are encouraged to consider this cost in deciding what COVID treatment is most appropriate for each eligible patient. The variances in coverage may make financial screening especially important for those who are underinsured to uninsured. Information about therapeutic options can be found in the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Outpatient COVID Treatment. Information about the commercial transition of bebetlovimab can be found at HHS Update: Bebtelovimab Commercial Transition | Important Update.

Operations

Impacts of Labor Day Holiday | Monday, Sept. 5

• Clinics Closed | All UVA Health clinics will be closed.
• Parking and Transportation Modifications |The University Transit Service bus and Health System Transit shuttle service will not operate on Sept. 5. The Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes from 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. UtoCar will operate normally. Please note, University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally on Tuesday, Sept. 6. Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (level D and above only) on Sept. 5.
• UVA Health Update on Hiatus | The UVA Health Update will not be sent on Monday, Sept. 5. The Update will resume on Wednesday, Sept 7.

Construction Alert | West Complex Switching to Temporary Oxygen Tanks

Friday, Sept. 9, to Friday, Sept. 30 | 7 a.m. | Oxygen lines to the West Complex will be switched over to temporary tanks due to Cobb Hall construction. This change should not affect oxygen availability. If there are any unexpected issues related to the outage, please contact the Health System Physical Plant Help Desk at 434.924.2267. Normal service will be restored on Sept. 30.

Construction Alert | Lane Road

Saturday, Sept. 10 | 7 a.m.-noon | Lane Road will be partially closed between the hospital’s loading dock and Crispell Drive and will impact M11 permit holders. Parallel parking in front of MR-4 will be closed during this time, and access to the loading dock will be limited. The remainder of M11 will remain available. Pedestrians should use the sidewalk in front of MR-4.

Ambulatory Operations

UVA Zion Crossroads Primary Care Clinic Reopening on Limited Basis

Starts Tuesday, Sept. 6 | We are happy to announce that the UVA Zion Crossroads Primary Care Clinic is reopening on a limited basis, thanks to coverage by providers from the Departments of Internal Medicine and Family Medicine. These individuals are providing coverage in addition to their regular work. Appointments will be available for established patients only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-noon. Providers will offer care for chronic conditions, for some acute conditions, and as follow-ups to hospital or emergency room visits. This temporary arrangement will provide coverage to the Zion Crossroads community until permanent physicians and care teams are in place. In addition to the providers offering coverage, the reopening of this clinic has been made possible by many team members at Zion Crossroads and across UVA Health. Working together behind the scenes, these groups are helping to bring primary care back to this community. A very special thank you to all!

Human Resources

Welcome, Karmen Fittes, to UVA Health

Please join us in welcoming Karmen Fittes as UVA Health’s inaugural Chief of Human Resources. As of Sept. 1, Karmen leads HR for UVA Health, building on existing programs, establishing new initiatives, and supporting the overall strategy to recruit and retain the best talent to support UVA Health’s mission of transforming health and inspiring health for all Virginians and beyond. Read more.

Four Weeks Remain to Complete Required Annual Retraining

Deadline: Friday, Sept. 30 | UVA Health team members who were hired on or before April 3, 2022, have been assigned and enrolled in the 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining Learning Program in Workday Learning. The program includes three required digital courses:

• 2022 UVA Health Annual Retraining
• 2022 UVA Health Virginia State Employee Safety, Disaster, and Terrorism Awareness Retraining
• DEI and Cultural Competence Compliance

Targeted reminder emails to managers and team members will be sent during the month of September. Please note that the deadline for completion will not be extended for this retraining. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu with the subject line, “Annual Retraining.” Learn more.

Happenings

Women in Medicine Month Events

• Social Media Campaign: Transforming Health Equity One Woman at a Time | Sept. 1-30 | Join the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement in collaboration with the UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science as they recognize, honor, and celebrate how UVA Health is “transforming equity one woman at a time.” Follow The UVA Committee on Women in Medicine and Science and other UVA Health departments on social media for a daily dose of women’s empowerment. Like, share, and use #COWMIS #UVAHEALTHODCE #ODCE #WIM #WIMMONTH #WIMMONTH2022 hashtags throughout the month.
• Women in Medicine Transforming Healthcare | Wednesday, Sept. 7 | 7-8 p.m. | Zoom | Register | A fireside-chat format with American Medical Women’s Association President Theresa Rohr-Kirchgraber, facilitating a discussion with special guest speakers Drs. Lucille Lester and Danielle Ofri.
• Stories Heal and Reveal: A Radical Listening and Reflective Writing Workshop | Wednesday, Sept. 7 | 8-9 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Join this writer's wellness workshop for physicians.
• 2022 Women Physicians Wellness Virtual Summit | Sept. 8-10 | Includes more than 20 women-physician sessions exploring professional and personal development strategies. Registration grants unlimited access to the summit for 60 days. CME credit available. Learn more.

See more events and learning opportunities on Connect.

Medical Center Hour | Working with Refugee Populations: How Do We Optimize Their Welcome?

Wednesday, Sept. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | Dr. Larry Merkel discusses the politicization of refugee status and the diversity of refugee resettlement experiences. Dr. Fern Hauck and Mirna Dickey will discuss the ways in which local organizations such as the UVA International Family Medicine Clinic and the International Rescue Committee meet the special needs of such refugees and some of the innovative strategies used by area caregivers to assist refugees affected by trauma.

Webinar: Over-the-Counter Substances of Abuse

Wednesday, Sept. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | This virtual training featuring Christopher P. Holstege, MD, and Avery Michienzi, DO, educates providers and the healthcare team about the management, prevalence, and presentation of over-the-counter substances of abuse, particularly for psychoactive properties. This ECHO series is directed by the UVA Division of Outreach in the Department of Psychiatry of Neurobehavioral Sciences. CME credit available. Register.

FEAP: Train Your Mind, Change Your Life

3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, and noon-1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15 | Zoom | NIH-funded clinical health psychologist Dr. Ruth Q. Wolever will share how practicing skills from a scientifically validated framework of mindfulness skills can dramatically improve your health and performance and capacity to settle your mind, broaden your perspective, sharpen your focus, and enhance your quality of life. This webinar kicks off the Hoos Well reward-eligible 1% Challenge.

Special Blood Drive for UVA Pediatric Sickle Cell Program and Be the Match Bone Marrow Registry

Thursday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Quayle Learning Center | Conference Room | 1204 West Main St. | Battle Building, First Floor | UVA Health will be holding a special blood drive to benefit our pediatric sickle cell program through the UVA Pediatric Sickle Cell Clinic. These patients need your help to live, so please sign up to donate. Check out this video from The American Red Cross, and read why blood-donor diversity is important. Swag alert: Give Sept. 1-30 and receive a free haircut coupon from Sport Clips Haircuts. Terms apply. Appointments required. Sign up by emailing giveblood@virginia.edu or visiting RedCrossBlood.org and using the sponsor code UVAPEDS. Learn more.

• Be the Match | Thursday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building Lobby | In conjunction, a table will be set up with information about bone marrow donation and how to sign up for the Be the Match registry. A simple cheek swab is all it takes to join the national registry of donors. Donors stand ready to say "YES" if selected as a match to save the life of a patient in need. Learn more.

Appreciation

Thank You to UVA Health Partners on Meeting Fundraising Goal

Amy Karr, Senior Associate VP, UVA Health Development, Executive Director, UVA Health Foundation, recently shared her appreciation to all UVA Health partners who helped UVA Health Foundation exceed an ambitious fundraising goal of $75 million in fiscal year 2022. She says that the excellence of our UVA Health colleagues across the patient care, research, education, and community and equity missions inspired over 9,000 alumni, grateful patients, friends, grant organizations, and industry partners to support our work. Each gift, no matter the amount, is a meaningful expression of this support and a way to rally behind the UVA Health team. She says, “We are particularly grateful to the department chairs, physicians, nurses, and other care team partners who helped connect us with grateful patients who have an interest in supporting the work of UVA Health.” Because of these partnerships, gifts from just our grateful patients totaled over $32 million last year, more than double the previous year. If you know of a patient who would like to make a gift, we’d be glad to help — simply contact gratefulpatient@virginia.edu. Read more.

Archive of previous UVA Health Updates

• March 30-July 31, 2020
• Aug. 3-Sept. 30, 2020
• Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2020
• Jan. 1-March 31, 2021
• April 1-30, 2021
• May 1-31, 2021
• June 1-30, 2021
• July 1-31, 2021
• Aug. 1-31, 2021
• Sept. 1-30, 2021
• Oct. 1-29, 2021
• Nov. 1-30, 2021
• Dec. 1-31, 2021
• Jan. 1-31, 2022
• Feb. 1-28, 2022
• March 2-30, 2022
• April 1-29, 2022
• May 1-30, 2022
• June 1-30, 2022
• July 1-31, 2022
• Aug. 1-31, 2022