Due Today: 2024 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining web page. 

Ambulatory 

Patient Star Ratings and Comments Now Live on UVAHealth.com 

As part of our multiyear journey to enhance our online presence, on Tuesday, Sept. 24, UVA Health launched patient star ratings and comments on more than 900 ambulatory provider profiles on uvahealth.com. Patient star ratings and comments are derived from our first-party patient satisfaction data collected by Press Ganey. The addition of this information will give patients even greater visibility and transparency into our extraordinary care delivery and more directly compete with health system peers who have already launched this feature. For detailed FAQs and more about the program, visit the Patient Experience intranet site. 

Operations 

McKim Post Office Goes Cashless 

As of Sept. 3, the post office located in McKim Hall has gone cashless and is accepting all credit cards for payment. Skip the lines at the local post office and visit McKim for your stamp and postal service needs. The window is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. (closed daily 1-1:30 p.m.), and is located on the ground floor of McKim Hall. Questions? Contact Maria Johnson.  

PETC Clinic Moved, Renamed Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine 

The Pre-anesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center (PETC) is undergoing a significant transformation, with a new name and location aimed at improving preoperative patient care and streamlining anesthesia evaluations. Previously located on the first floor of University Hospital, the clinic relocated Sept. 27, to Fontaine Research Park, and will start seeing patients at its new facility today, Monday, Sept. 30. The clinic will be renamed the Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine, a name that more accurately reflects its specialized focus for both patients and staff. Learn more on Connect. 

October Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month at UVA Health 

Join Health Information Technology (HIT) on the UVA Health Cybersecurity Awareness Month web page to review October’s takeaway cybersecurity topics. 

Happenings 

Compassionate Care Initiative Cart Continues 

Does your unit need an occasional pick-me-up? UVA School of Nursing’s Compassionate Care Initiative (CCI) Cart — laden with healthy snacks, as well as wellness resources, head-clearing activities, and positive energy for clinicians and staff — is set to continue circulating among UVA Health units. Want the CCI Cart to come to your unit with a therapy dog in tow? If so, please complete this request form. (Pictured: Freddie the bassett hound) 

Kicking Off Socktober 2024 

Oct. 1-Nov. 1 | UVA Health is launching its annual Socktober initiative Oct. 1. Drop off new pairs of socks in Socktober bins at: University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, and Fontaine. This year's goal to collect for the unhoused: 12,500 new pairs. Or, rally your department to vie for prizes!  

The department that turns in the most pairs each week will receive cookie platters for their team. There will be a total of four departmental winners the weeks of: Oct 1-11, 12-18, 19-25, and Oct. 25-Nov. 1. And the three departments that turn in the most pairs of new socks will win a catered event while the top department earns a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Read more on Connect. Print and hang, or share electronically: a fun sock tracker, and horizontal and vertical graphics. Questions? Contact Chadwick French. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Tuesday, Oct. 1 | 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
• Thursday, Oct.17 | noon-3 p.m. 
• Monday, Oct. 21 | 1:30-4:30 p.m. 
• Friday, Nov. 1 | 8-11 a.m. 

Apply for Next Medical Lab Technicians Cohort 

Deadline: Tuesday, Oct. 1 | Interested in an in-demand career? Consider joining the next cohort of the Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) Medical Laboratory Technology degree program. Projected staffing shortages prompted UVA Health to team up with PVCC for the first cohort — and now, almost all of the new alums already are working at UVA Health. Medical lab technicians perform essential testing on blood and body fluids. Students may qualify for free tuition, fees, and books in this G3: Get a Skill. Get a Job. Get Ahead. program. Learn more on Connect. Questions? Email Briana Shelton, UVA Health Medical Laboratories Education Coordinator. 

Medical Center Hour | 2024 Bice Lecture: ‘Following What Matters’ 

Thursday, Oct. 3 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110, and Zoom | American Academy of Nursing Immediate Past President and Dean Emeritus of MGH Institute of Health Professions' School of Nursing Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FADLN, FAAN, will deliver UVA School of Nursing's annual Bice Lecture. Learn more. 

Hispanic Heritage Month | Sept. 15-Oct. 15 

• My Story, My Voice: Featuring Silvia Romero | Monday, Oct. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Silvia Romero, Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Sentara Healthcare, Harrisonburg, Virginia, will share a 45-minute presentation on her academic/career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommended best practices and benchmarks for consideration.
• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration | Friday, Oct. 11 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5 Courtyard | UVA Health is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month's first-ever celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture in the UVA Health University Medical Center. Staff, faculty, students, and the community are welcome to attend.
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Max Luna | Monday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Max Luna, MD, will share his academic and career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth.

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds Lecture Series 

Monday, Oct. 7 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Moss Auditorium and WebEx | UVA Radiology's next installment of its Keynote Lecture Series — "AI: Clear Trends, Cloudy Horizons" — features speaker Felipe Kitamura, MD, PhD, medical director at Bunkerhill Health and associate editor at “RSNA: Artificial Intelligence.” A reception will be held prior to the event. Details. 

ECHO: Stroke Ready Primary Care 

Virtual | Register | A free webinar series for primary care providers to better understand stroke and management of risk factors. This series will provide a comprehensive review of the newest treatment and evaluation paradigms for the primary and secondary prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular disease.   

• Wednesday, Oct. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | "Trimming Trends: Mastering Obesity Treatment in Primary Care," Catherine Varney, DO  
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 | noon-1 p.m. | “High Stakes: Unveiling Substance Abuse as a Stroke Catalyst,” Emily Fisher, MD 

Appreciation 

Cultivating Healthy Communities 

UVA Health has allocated nearly $265,000 in grant funding to support 42 nonprofit organizations. Of these grants, 24 are designated for the Prince William Health District and 18 for the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District. These funds are aimed at supporting our communities' most vulnerable populations — reflecting our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and addressing healthcare workforce development.  

Recipients have demonstrated unwavering commitment to addressing community needs identified in a 2022-24 health needs assessment. Focus areas include mental health, behavioral health, substance use — and chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.  

“One of our main goals in the 10-year strategic plan is to cultivate healthy communities and belonging for all,” explains says Michelle Strider, RN, MBA, CPHQ, Chief Nursing Officer for UVA Health’s community medical centers and clinics in Northern Virginia and Culpeper. “Our grant partners are instrumental in supporting that mission.” Learn more on Connect. 

Previous Updates

Friday, Sept. 27

Steam Outage: Heating and Hot Water 

Sunday, Sept. 29 | 6-11 a.m. | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will not be affected.   

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time.  
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29, if any clinical operations are in-progress that would require a delay in the planned outage.  
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825.  
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water.  
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room.  
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room.  

Questions? Contact Robert Bishop, Zone Manager, Health System Physical Plan Zone-1 South. 

Due Soon: 2024 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining web page. 

COVID-19 

COVID Vaccine Now Available at UVA Health 

UVA Health retail pharmacies and clinics that have previously stocked the COVID vaccine are now stocked with and administering the latest Pfizer booster. Formulations for ages 12 and older, 5-11, and 6 months-4 years old will be available and insurance is billed for this vaccine. Patients — including team members — may seek a vaccine from UVA Health via the following avenues:  

• As part of a regularly scheduled clinic appointment on or after Sept. 23 (confirm that your clinic has the vaccine). 
• Patients 12 years and older and team members may schedule a pharmacy vaccine appointment through MyChart or by calling 434.297.4829 (appointment required, no walk-ins; appointments for 5+ available soon). 
• Patients may call their primary care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment (availability will vary). 
• Patients under 12 years must schedule a vaccine appointment with their primary care provider. 
• Team members on the UVA Health Plan may also get their COVID vaccine at Employee Primary Care (EPC) in the West Complex. Use MyChart to schedule. Efforts are underway to increase COVID vaccine appointment availability at EPC. 

You may also get your COVID vaccine at a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder to locate a vaccine near you. COVID vaccines will not be available through Employee Health. 

The COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged for UVA Health team members, but it is not required by health system policy. 

Ambulatory 

PETC Clinic Moving, Will Be Renamed Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine 

The Pre-anesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center (PETC) is undergoing a significant transformation, with a new name and location aimed at improving preoperative patient care and streamlining anesthesia evaluations. Currently located on the first floor of University Hospital, the clinic is relocating today, Sept. 27, to Fontaine Research Park, and will start seeing patients at its new facility Sept. 30. The clinic will be renamed the Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine, a name that more accurately reflects its specialized focus for both patients and staff. Learn more on Connect. 

Free AAACN Certification Review Course for Ambulatory RNs 

Saturday, Oct. 19 | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) | Register via Workday | UVA Health is offering the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) Certification Review Course. This one-day session is designed to prepare UVA Health registered nurses (RN) for the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam and provides 8.0 contact hours. Registration is capped at 80 participants. The course, offered free of charge, provides an overview of the potential content that may be tested on the AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam. In an interactive, case-based format, it reinforces knowledge of ambulatory care and identifies areas for further study in preparation for the exam. The class also may be suitable for RNs transitioning into ambulatory care or those who need a refresher on the ambulatory care nursing specialty.  

Operations 

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program 

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re pleased to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24. Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. On Tuesday, Sept. 24, workplace flu shots became available at UVA Health. See schedule and vaccination clinic locations. Read more about the team member vaccination program, FAQs, and a message from Joshua Eby, MD, Medical Director, Employee Health, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, and Costi Sifri, MD, Hospital Epidemiologist, on Connect.  

Central Clinical Orientation 

Monday, Sept. 30 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Central Clinical Orientation NEC and Management email collaboration has gone live. Units to email their new hires prior to Friday afternoon this week with orientation information. Visit the Nursing Professional Development Services (NPDS) intranet for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

Happenings 

Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann

Through Wednesday, Nov. 13 | Main Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann.” Pictured: “The Battle Building, West Main St., Charlottesville.” Stop by and check it out! 

Apply for Next Medical Lab Technicians Cohort 

Deadline: Tuesday, Oct. 1 | Interested in an in-demand career? Consider joining the next cohort of the Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) Medical Laboratory Technology degree program. Projected staffing shortages prompted UVA Health to team up with PVCC for the first cohort — and now, almost all of the new alums already are working at UVA Health. Medical lab technicians perform essential testing on blood and body fluids. Students may qualify for free tuition, fees, and books in this G3: Get a Skill. Get a Job. Get Ahead. program. Learn more on Connect. Questions? Email Briana Shelton, UVA Health Medical Laboratories Education Coordinator. 

Medical Center Hour | 2024 Bice Lecture: ‘Following What Matters’  

Thursday, Oct. 3 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110, and Zoom | American Academy of Nursing Immediate Past President and Dean Emeritus of MGH Institute of Health Professions' School of Nursing Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FADLN, FAAN, will deliver UVA School of Nursing's annual Bice Lecture. Learn more. 

Advanced Practice APOGEE Conference 

Oct. 10-11 | 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | UVA Newcomb Hall | Advancing Professional Growth, Education, and Excellence Conference features lectures, case studies, and interactive sessions. It addresses complex medical and nursing management of acute and chronic illness through the care continuum and across the lifespan, expanding excellence in clinical care and sophistication of medical decision making. Questions? Contact Linda Hanson. Learn more and register. 

Discounted UVA Football Tickets 

The UVA Athletic Department is excited to give all UVA Health team members the opportunity to join us at the Louisville and North Carolina games this season. To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. See you at Scott Stadium! Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Purchase tickets. 

• Saturday, Oct. 12 | UVA vs Louisville (Breast Cancer Awareness Month game)  
• Saturday, Oct. 26 | UVA vs University of North Carolina (UVA Health sponsored game) 

2024 Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar 

Oct. 20-22 | Collins Building, 5th Floor, Room 5382 | This in-person, intensive, three-day training program is designed for multidisciplinary practicing healthcare professionals who wish to develop or deepen their healthcare ethics and moral distress consultation knowledge and skills, and prepare for the healthcare ethics consultation certification exam. Questions? Contact Charlene Kaufman. Learn more and register. 

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award 

Deadline Friday, Oct. 25 | The Outstanding Contributor Award recognizes team members whose service and contribution far exceeds the overall mission and values of the University. Learn more. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

Appreciation 

Feel Good Friday: Celebrating National APP Week 

UVA Health is proud to have more than 600 advanced practice providers (APP) elevating the fields of medicine and nursing to ensure our patients and communities receive quick access, safe, high-quality, evidence-based care. Below are some kind and encouraging words about a few of our outstanding APPs. 

• Min-Hee Kang, NP | “Simply an outstanding nurse practitioner. I am very impressed with her skillset and her very comfortable conversational style. She is also an excellent listener and diagnostician. I really appreciate all her advice and counsel which has been 100% on target. Dr. Darby is very fortunate to have her as his main nurse practitioner and she is clearly an asset to the Heart and Vascular Clinic.”  
• Madison Murray, PA | “Fantastic — extremely thorough, great clinical bedside manner, asks the right questions to find the true origin of the problem, and provides great resources for learning more. We should all be so lucky to have such care in a primary care physician assistant.” 
• Melody Noble, NP | “Absolutely incredible. My oncologist — who was out for maternity leave during a good portion of my chemo care — couldn't have left me in any better care. Melody is caring and listens to my concerns and needs always. I never feel like I am being rushed during my visit.” 
• Michelle Proffitt, NP | “Outstanding! She looked over my chart before seeing me. Her knowledge of my history from my chart shows she is an excellent nurse practitioner and would be an asset to any practice. I would hire her if I worked in the medical field. She is caring, compassionate, and loves what she does, and it shows through and through.”  
• Matthew Thomas, GC | “Exceptional and highly professional, and I was very impressed with the experience he provided. He was a great listener and made valuable suggestions. I really felt that I was being heard. I was made comfortable during the entire appointment and blood draw. I'd like to commend Matthew Thomas for reviewing my message in my health chart and nurse Q&A by phone prior to my appointment.”  
• Evan Turnbull, PA | “Amazing physician assistant who listens to me when I have concerns regarding my pain levels; and mobility in my daily life; the overall care during my post-op is truly appreciated. I feel as though I'm being heard during my appointments with him and the daily goals we set for myself are effective in ensuring I have a successful recovery.” 

If you haven’t yet, we hope you’ll reach out to an APP in your department and acknowledge them for the value they provide to our institution and patients. 

Wednesday, Sept. 25

Discounted UVA Football Tickets 

The University of Virginia Athletic Department is excited to give all UVA Health team members the opportunity to join us at the Louisville and North Carolina games this season. To celebrate the immense impact you make on our community, UVA Athletics is offering a special discounted ticket rate to all UVA Health team members, as well as their friends and families. See you at Scott Stadium! Tickets are digital and will be sent immediately after purchase. Purchase tickets. 

• Saturday, Oct. 12 | UVA vs Louisville (Breast Cancer Awareness Month game) 
• Saturday, Oct. 26 | UVA vs University of North Carolina (UVA Health sponsored game) 

COVID-19

COVID Vaccine Now Available at UVA Health 

UVA Health retail pharmacies and clinics that have previously stocked the COVID vaccine are now stocked with the latest Pfizer booster and ready to administer starting today, Monday, Sept. 23. Formulations for ages 12 and older, 5-11, and 6 months-4 years old will be available and insurance is billed for this vaccine. Patients — including team members — may seek a vaccine from UVA Health via the following avenues:   

• As part of a regularly scheduled clinic appointment on or after Sept. 23 (confirm that your clinic has the vaccine).   
• Patients 12 years and older and team members may schedule a pharmacy vaccine appointment through MyChart or by calling 434.297.4829 (appointment required, no walk-ins; appointments for 5+ available soon).   
• Patients may call their primary care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment (availability will vary).    
• Patients under 12 years must schedule a vaccine appointment with their primary care provider.     
• Team members on the UVA Health Plan may also get their COVID vaccine at Employee Primary Care (EPC) in the West Complex. Use MyChart to schedule. Efforts are underway to increase COVID vaccine appointment availability at EPC.   

You may also get your COVID vaccine at a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder to locate a vaccine near you. COVID vaccines will not be available through Employee Health.     

The COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged for UVA Health team members, but it is not required by health system policy. 

Ambulatory

Patient Star Ratings and Comments Now Live on UVAHealth.com 

As part of our multiyear journey to enhance our online presence, on Tuesday, Sept. 24, UVA Health launched patient star ratings and comments on more than 900 ambulatory provider profiles on uvahealth.com. Patient star ratings and comments are derived from our first-party patient satisfaction data collected by Press Ganey. The addition of this information will give patients even greater visibility and transparency into our extraordinary care delivery and more directly compete with health system peers who have already launched this feature. For detailed FAQs and more about the program, visit the Patient Experience intranet site. 

PETC Clinic Moving, Will Be Renamed Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine 

The Pre-anesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center (PETC) will undergo a significant transformation at the end of the month, with a new name and location aimed at improving preoperative patient care and streamlining anesthesia evaluations. Currently located on the first floor of University Hospital, the clinic will relocate to Fontaine Research Park on Sept. 27 and will start seeing patients at its new facility on Sept. 30. The clinic will be renamed the Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine, a name that more accurately reflects its specialized focus for both patients and staff. Learn more on Connect. 

Operations

Epic Clinical Service Desk: Updated Business Hours 

Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, the Epic Clinical Service Desk will change their hours to match the Epic Revenue Cycle Service Desk hours of Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All calls made outside of these Epic Service Desk business hours will continue to be answered by the HIT Service Desk (434.924.5334). 

Steam Outage: Heating and Hot Water 

Sunday, Sept. 29 | 6-11 a.m. | University Hospital | Steam and hot water will be down for maintenance in University Hospital. The South Tower will not be affected.  

• Heat and hot water will not be available for hand wash sinks and patient showers during this time. 
• Units will contact the nursing supervisor by 5 a.m. on Sunday (Sept. 29) if any clinical operations are in-progress that would require a delay in the planned outage. 
• Units may request additional linens and blankets from the linen room as needed for patients by calling 434.924.5825. 
• Pediatric units may request coffee cauldrons from dietary to assist in warming of bottles or use local unit coffee makers for generating hot water. 
• Radiant warmers will be available to the pediatric floors from the supply room. 
• A limited number of heat lamps will be available from the supply room. 

Questions? Contact Robert Bishop, Zone Manager, Health System Physical Plan Zone-1 South. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Monday, Sept. 30 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Central Clinical Orientation NEC and Management email collaboration has gone live. Units to email their new hires prior to Friday afternoon this week with orientation information. Visit the Nursing Professional Development Services (NPDS) intranet for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. 

Epic Upgrade Next Month  

Wednesday, Oct. 16 | The Health Information Technology (HIT) team will implement the Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities Oct. 16. Epic pushes comprehensive updates to the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system which incorporates team member feedback on new features, optimizations, and improvements. On average, it will take team members 30 minutes to review training materials to prepare for the upcoming changes. Stay tuned for more information, including the top five changes! 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Who’s Your Inspiration? 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, shares why she’s inspired by Karen Rheuban, MD’s proven ability to turn innovative vision into action. Read more. 

Human Resources 

Due Soon: 2024 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining webpage. 

Open Enrollment Presentations Start 

Benefits Open Enrollment: Oct. 7-18 | The Open Enrollment website is open, and the UVA HR email you received on Sept. 19 details benefits changes that will take effect Jan. 1, 2025, resources and tools you need to learn regarding your benefits, and what you can do to prepare. This is a busy time of year, and your benefits are an important financial investment. Read more on Connect. 

Happenings 

Compassionate Care Initiative Cart Continues 

Does your unit need an occasional pick-me-up? UVA School of Nursing’s Compassionate Care Initiative (CCI) Cart — laden with healthy snacks, as well as wellness resources, head-clearing activities, and positive energy for clinicians and staff — is set to continue circulating among UVA Health units. Want the CCI Cart to come to your unit with a therapy dog in tow? If so, please complete this request form. (Pictured: Freddie the bassett hound) 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.  

Information Session: 'What Nursing Program Is Right for Me?' 

Wednesday, Sept. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | No matter your goals, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Thanks to a generous base of supporters, there are financial resources to make returning to school affordable — and a reality. Learn more and register. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register 

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon 

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. Details. 

Hispanic Heritage Month | Sept. 15-Oct. 15 

• My Story, My Voice: Featuring Silvia Romero | Monday, Oct. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Silvia Romero, Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Sentara Healthcare, Harrisonburg, Virginia, will share a 45-minute presentation on her academic/career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommended best practices and benchmarks for consideration. 
• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration | Friday, Oct. 11 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5 Courtyard | UVA Health is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month's first-ever celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture in the UVA Health University Medical Center. Staff, faculty, students, and the community are welcome to attend. 
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Max Luna | Monday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Max Luna, MD, will share his academic and career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth. 

Kicking Off Socktober 2024 

Oct. 1-Nov. 1 | UVA Health is launching its annual Socktober initiative Oct. 1. Drop off new pairs of socks in Socktober bins at: University Medical Center Cafeteria, Wahoo West Café, OR waiting room, Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road, and Fontaine. This year's goal to collect for the unhoused: 12,500 new pairs. Or, rally your department to vie for prizes! 

The department that turns in the most pairs each week will receive cookie platters for their team. There will be a total of four departmental winners the weeks of: Oct 1-11, 12-18, 19-25, and Oct. 25-Nov. 1. And the three departments that turn in the most pairs of new socks will win a catered event while the top department earns a trophy. For donations to count toward a departmental prize, give collected socks directly to the retail manager or supervisor on duty. Read more on Connect. Print and hang, or share electronically: a fun sock tracker, and horizontal and vertical graphics. Questions? Contact Chadwick French. 

Nancy McDaniel Lectureship on Women in Leadership 

Monday, Oct. 28 | 4-5 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium or Zoom | Miriam A. Bredella, MD, MBA, Associate Dean for Translational Science and Director of the Clinical and Translational Science Institute at NYU Langone Healt will deliver the lecture “Pathways to Progress: Advancing Women’s Careers in Academic Medicine.” Presented by UVA Health Children’s and the Department of Pediatrics. Zoom meeting ID:916 3632 7584, passcode: 154348. Details. 

Nominate: Research Achievement Awards 

Deadline: Monday, Dec. 2 | 5 p.m. | These awards aim to recognize faculty for their excellence in research and scholarship leading to the advancement of knowledge and discoveries with significant impact on society. Details. 

Appreciation 

Virginia Early Childhood Expert Chosen for International Leadership Development Program 

Stephanie McNerney, a neurodevelopmental and behavioral pediatric nurse practitioner at UVA Health Children’s, has been announced as a member of the 2024-26 Fellowship Class by Zero to Three, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. McNerney is the co-founder and medical director of the Village Care Program, which provides support to children in foster care or at risk for disruption. She specializes in collaborative and relationship-focused healthcare at the intersection of disability and marginalization. McNerney expressed her gratitude, saying, "Zero to Three has been a guiding light for me, elucidating neuroscience and early childhood systems, anti-bias, equitable, and just practices, and self-reflection." 

McNerney is one of 20 exceptional early childhood leaders from across the United States and around the world, selected from a pool of 225 applicants. These Fellows represent a range of professional specialties, including infant and early childhood mental health clinical services, program administration, research, and early childhood policy. They serve in urban and rural communities across the U.S., Canada, Kenya, Peru, and Uruguay.   

The 18-month fellowship is designed to support the next generation of early childhood leaders in embracing a courageous, just, and collaborative approach to transforming programs, systems, and policies to give babies and toddlers a strong start in life. Please join us in congratulating McNerney on this outstanding accomplishment! 

Monday, Sept. 23

COVID Vaccine Now Available at UVA Health 

UVA Health retail pharmacies and clinics that have previously stocked the COVID vaccine are now stocked with the latest Pfizer booster and ready to administer starting today, Monday, Sept. 23. Formulations for ages 12 and older, 5-11, and 6 months-4 years old will be available and insurance is billed for this vaccine. Patients — including team members — may seek a vaccine from UVA Health via the following avenues:  

• As part of a regularly scheduled clinic appointment on or after Sept. 23 (confirm that your clinic has the vaccine).  
• Patients 12 years and older and team members may schedule a pharmacy vaccine appointment through MyChart or by calling 434.297.4829 (appointment required, no walk-ins; appointments for 5+ available soon).  
• Patients may call their primary care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment (availability will vary).   
• Patients under 12 years must schedule a vaccine appointment with their primary care provider.    
• Team members on the UVA Health Plan may also get their COVID vaccine at Employee Primary Care (EPC) in the West Complex. Use MyChart to schedule. Efforts are underway to increase COVID vaccine appointment availability at EPC.  

You may also get your COVID vaccine at a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder to locate a vaccine near you. COVID vaccines will not be available through Employee Health.    

The COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged for UVA Health team members, but it is not required by health system policy. 

Celebrating Advanced Practice Provider Week 

Through Saturday, Sept. 28 | The mission of National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week honors the contributions of physician assistants, nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse midwives, and certified genetic counselors and audiologists. UVA Health is proud to have more than 600 APPs elevate the fields of medicine and nursing to ensure our patients and communities receive quick access, safe, high-quality, evidence-based care. During this week, please reach out to an APP in your department and acknowledge them for the value they provide to our institution and patients! 

Operations 

Epic Clinical Service Desk: Updated Business Hours 

Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, the Epic Clinical Service Desk will change their hours to match the Epic Revenue Cycle Service Desk hours of Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All calls made outside of these Epic Service Desk business hours will continue to be answered by the HIT Service Desk (434.924.5334). 

Epic Upgrade Coming this Fall 

Wednesday, Oct. 16 | The Health Information Technology (HIT) team will implement the Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities on Oct. 16. Epic pushes out comprehensive updates to the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system which incorporates team member feedback on new features, optimizations, and improvements. On average, it will take team members 30 minutes to review training materials to prepare for the upcoming changes. Stay tuned for more information, including the top five changes! 

Human Resources 

Due Soon: 2024 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining webpage. 

Happenings 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.  

National Sickle Cell Awareness Month Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Needed Urgently 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | During September, the American Red Cross highlights an important observance designated by Congress: National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that has no universal cure. Blood transfusions can help reduce recurrent pain crises patients often feel, as well as other SCD complications, such as organ damage and stroke. The Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage, and more individuals are needed to donate now. Sign up to donate by emailing giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Terms apply. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 1:30-4:30 p.m. | McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less. 

Information Session: 'What Nursing Program Is Right for Me?' 

Wednesday, Sept. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | No matter your goals, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Thanks to a generous base of supporters, there are financial resources to make returning to school affordable — and a reality. Learn more and register. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register 

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon 

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. Details. 

Hispanic Heritage Month | Sept. 15-Oct. 15 

• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebración | Friday, Sept. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5 Courtyard | UVA Health is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month's first-ever celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture in the UVA Health University Medical Center. Staff, faculty, students, and the community are welcome to attend.   
• My Story, My Voice: Featuring Silvia Romero | Monday, Oct. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Silvia Romero, Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Sentara Healthcare, Harrisonburg, Virginia, will share a 45-minute presentation on her academic/career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommended best practices and benchmarks for consideration.   
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Max Luna | Monday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Max Luna, MD, will share his academic and career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth. 

Appreciation

Hoos on the Field?  

It’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and we were honored and touched to watch UVA athletes and fans welcome two UVA Health Children’s patients, their families, and their care teams during a recent football game. 

Six-year-old Blakeleigh Thompson was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in April 2023. She is now in remission but still receives maintenance chemotherapy. Her care team loves the way she greets them at every visit with a hug and a smile, and they are so impressed by her bravery and strength. 

15-year-old Lucas Frank was a three-sport athlete and the starting center for his high school football team before his T-Cell leukemia diagnosis. He’s also now in remission, and although he gets maintenance chemotherapy, recently he was cleared to play baseball for the first time since his diagnosis. He hopes to return to football soon. 

Learn more about pediatric cancer care at UVA Health Children’s. 

Friday, Sept. 20

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program 

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re pleased to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24. Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. Flu vaccines are free for all UVA Health team members, and vaccination is mandatory for all Tier 1 UVA Health team members. On Tuesday, Sept. 24, workplace flu shots become available at UVA Health. See schedule and vaccination clinic locations. Read more about the team member vaccination program, FAQs, and a message from Joshua Eby, MD, Medical Director, Employee Health, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, and Costi Sifri, MD, Hospital Epidemiologist, on Connect.  

COVID-19 

COVID Vaccine Available at UVA Health Starting Sept. 23 

UVA Health retail pharmacies and clinics that have previously stocked the COVID vaccine will be stocked with the latest Pfizer booster and ready to administer starting Monday, Sept. 23. Formulations for ages 12 and older, 5-11, and 6 months-4 years old will be available and insurance is billed for this vaccine. Patients — including team members — may seek a vaccine from UVA Health via the following avenues: 

• As part of a regularly scheduled clinic appointment on or after Sept. 23 (confirm that your clinic has the vaccine). 
• Patients 12 years and older and team members may schedule a pharmacy vaccine appointment through MyChart or by calling 434.297.4829 (appointment required, no walk-ins; appointments for 5+ available soon). 
• Patients may call their primary care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment (availability will vary).  
• Patients under 12 years must schedule a vaccine appointment with their primary care provider.   
• Team members on the UVA Health Plan may also get their COVID vaccine at Employee Primary Care (EPC) in the West Complex. Use MyChart to schedule. Efforts are underway to increase COVID vaccine appointment availability at EPC. 

You may also get your COVID vaccine at a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder to locate a vaccine near you. COVID vaccines will not be available through Employee Health.   

The COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged for UVA Health team members, but it is not required by health system policy. 

Operations 

Epic Clinical Service Desk: Updated Business Hours 

Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, the Epic Clinical Service Desk will change their hours to match the Epic Revenue Cycle Service Desk hours of Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All calls made outside of these Epic Service Desk business hours will continue to be answered by the HIT Service Desk (434.924.5334). 

Spok System Upgrade 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 2-8 a.m. | The Spok System upgrade is expected to last approximately four hours. During this period, the Contact Center will operate under downtime procedures. All emergencies will be communicated via overhead announcements.   

Epic Upgrade Coming this Fall 

Wednesday, Oct. 16 | The Health Information Technology (HIT) team will implement the Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities on Oct. 16. Epic pushes out comprehensive updates to the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system which incorporates team member feedback on new features, optimizations, and improvements. On average, it will take team members 30 minutes to review training materials to prepare for the upcoming changes. Stay tuned for more information, including the top five changes! 

Human Resources 

2024 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining webpage. 

Your Open Enrollment Toolkit Is Here! 

Benefits Open Enrollment: Oct. 7-18 | The Open Enrollment website is open, and the UVA HR email you received on Sept. 19 details benefits changes that will take effect Jan. 1, 2025, resources and tools you need to learn regarding your benefits, and what you can do to prepare. This is a busy time of year, and your benefits are an important financial investment. Read more on Connect. 

Happenings 

Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann 

Through Wednesday, Nov. 13 | Main Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann.” Pictured: “The Battle Building, West Main St., Charlottesville.” Stop by and check it out! 

Know Your Numbers 

Saturday, Sept. 21 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. | Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome | The UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement is partnering with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church and other community partners to offer the church’s 3rd Annual Men’s Health Day Event: Know Your Numbers. Through LabCorp, blood testing for CBC (complete blood count), lipids, prostate, and hemoglobin A1c will be provided free of charge. Clothing, haircuts, food, and information on community resources also will be available. UVA Cancer Center also will share information during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Questions? Email Jackie Martin, Director, UVA Health Community Partnerships and Health Equity. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register 

National Sickle Cell Awareness Month Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Needed Urgently 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | During September, the American Red Cross highlights an important observance designated by Congress: National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that has no universal cure. Blood transfusions can help reduce recurrent pain crises patients often feel, as well as other SCD complications, such as organ damage and stroke. The Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage, and more individuals are needed to donate now. Sign up to donate by emailing giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Terms apply. 

Information Session: 'What Nursing Program Is Right for Me?' 

Wednesday, Sept. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | No matter your goals, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Thanks to a generous base of supporters, there are financial resources to make returning to school affordable — and a reality. Learn more and register. 

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon 

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. 

Hispanic Heritage Month | Sept. 15-Oct. 15  

• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebración | Friday, Sept. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5 Courtyard | UVA Health is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month's first-ever celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture in the UVA Health University Medical Center. Staff, faculty, students, and the community are welcome to attend.  
• My Story, My Voice: Featuring Silvia Romero | Monday, Oct. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Silvia Romero, Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Sentara Healthcare, Harrisonburg, Virginia, will share a 45-minute presentation on her academic/career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommended best practices and benchmarks for consideration.  
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Max Luna | Monday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Max Luna, MD, will share his academic and career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth. 

Pulmonary Fibrosis 6th Annual Patient Education Day 

Saturday, Sept. 28 | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building; or virtual | Register | The UVA Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine invites patients, friends, and family to this one-day event to learn more about pulmonary fibrosis. Keynote speaker Daniel Kass, MD, Director, Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease Associate and Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh. Details. 

2024 Bice Lecture: ‘Following What Matters’ 

Thursday, Oct. 3 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110 | American Academy of Nursing Immediate Past President and Dean Emeritus of MGH Institute of Health Professions' School of Nursing Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FADLN, FAAN, will deliver UVA School of Nursing's annual Bice Lecture. Learn more. 

Advanced Practice APOGEE Conference 

Oct. 10-11 | 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | UVA Newcomb Hall | Advancing Professional Growth, Education, and Excellence Conference features lectures, case studies, and interactive sessions. It addresses complex medical and nursing management of acute and chronic illness through the care continuum and across the lifespan, expanding excellence in clinical care and sophistication of medical decision making. Questions? Contact Linda Hanson. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation 

‘She Saved the Day!’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• “They had issues finding a vein for an IV, and all the staff were super helpful and nice — but the anesthesiologist named Lisa Igbani, MD, was the absolute best at having patience, and was just so calm and relaxed. And she actually found a vein, so she made it all better. I had to give her a hug before I left, because I honestly thought the procedure wasn't going to happen at all — but she saved the day!”  
• “Ollie served my meals and is such a ray of sunshine that I looked forward to seeing him. McKenzie or Mac was one of my nurses and made me feel like family. She is very knowledgeable and made sure I understood what the doctors ordered and why. Excellent nurse. The night I came to 4 North, Rachel called a sepsis alert and may well have saved my life. She and her team were fast and efficient. A wonderful caring group of people.” 
• “This was by far the easiest allergy visit my child has had and that was due to the patience and kindness of our nurse. She took time to explain each step of the testing process and answered my anxious child's many questions. She made what has, historically, been a very stressful and difficult day for him into a calm and successful experience.” 
• “I rely on Ellen's wisdom understanding, listening skills, knowledge, and flexibility. She listens well. I leave an appointment feeling back on track and more optimistic about my condition. I rejoin the fight knowing I have the very best of care and determined to come back in a few months' time with something positive to demonstrate to her.” 

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

Wednesday, Sept. 18

COVID Vaccine Available at UVA Health Starting Sept. 23 

UVA Health retail pharmacies and clinics that have previously stocked the COVID vaccine will be stocked with the latest Pfizer booster and ready to administer starting Monday, Sept. 23. Formulations for ages 12 and older, 5-11, and 6 months-4 years old will be available and insurance is billed for this vaccine. Patients (including team members) may seek a vaccine from UVA Health via the following avenues: 

• As part of a regularly scheduled appointment on or after Sept. 23 (confirm that your clinic has the vaccine). 
• Patients 12 years and older may schedule a pharmacy vaccine appointment through MyChart or by calling 434.297.4829 (appointment required, no walk-ins; appointments for 5+ available soon). 
• Patients may call their primary care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment (availability will vary). 
• Patients under 12 years must schedule a vaccine appointment with their primary care provider.  

You may also get your COVID vaccine at a community pharmacy. Use the government’s Vaccine Finder to locate a vaccine near you. COVID vaccines will not be available through Employee Health.  

The COVID vaccine is strongly encouraged for UVA Health team members, but it is not required by health system policy. 

Ambulatory 

PETC Clinic Moving, Will Be Renamed Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine 

The Pre-anesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center (PETC) will undergo a significant transformation at the end of the month, with a new name and location aimed at improving preoperative patient care and streamlining anesthesia evaluations. Currently located on the first floor of University Hospital, the clinic will relocate to Fontaine Research Park on Sept. 27 and will start seeing patients at its new facility on Sept. 30. The clinic will be renamed the Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine, a name that more accurately reflects its specialized focus for both patients and staff. Learn more on Connect. 

Free AAACN Certification Review Course for Ambulatory RNs 

Saturday, Oct. 19 | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) | Register via Workday | UVA Health is offering the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) Certification Review Course. This one-day session is designed to prepare UVA Health registered nurses (RN) for the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam and provides 8.0 contact hours. Registration is capped at 80 participants. The course, offered free of charge, provides an overview of the potential content that may be tested on the AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam. In an interactive, case-based format, it reinforces knowledge of ambulatory care and identifies areas for further study in preparation for the exam. The class also may be suitable for RNs transitioning into ambulatory care or those who need a refresher on the ambulatory care nursing specialty.  

August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available 

Highlights of the August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report include One Team | United on Access Wave 4 updates, a Genesys phone system update, and a registration reminder to RNs about the free AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification course coming to Charlottesville.  

Operations 

Epic Clinical Service Desk: Updated Business Hours 

Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, the Epic Clinical Service Desk will change their hours to match the Epic Revenue Cycle Service Desk hours of Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All calls made outside of these Epic Service Desk business hours will continue to be answered by the HIT Service Desk (434.924.5334). 

Spok System Upgrade 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 2-8 a.m. | The Spok System upgrade is expected to last approximately four hours. During this period, the Contact Center will operate under downtime procedures. All emergencies will be communicated via overhead announcements.   

Epic Upgrade Coming this Fall 

Wednesday, Oct. 16 | The Health Information Technology (HIT) team will implement the Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities on Oct. 16. Epic pushes out comprehensive updates to the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system which incorporates team member feedback on new features, optimizations, and improvements. On average, it will take team members 30 minutes to review training materials to prepare for the upcoming changes. Stay tuned for more information, including the top five changes! 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Pegasus at 40: A Closer Look at the Legacy 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, joins the Pegasus team to celebrate their 40th anniversary and gets an inside look at this special program. Read more and see the video. 

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month 

From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, we proudly celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month — a time to honor the invaluable contributions Hispanic/Latino Americans have made at UVA Health and beyond. This year’s national theme, "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together," reflects our commitment to advancing inclusive care for all. Read the message from UVA Health senior leadership and see events on KnowledgeLink. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Open Enrollment for Plan Year 2025 

UVA's Benefits Open Enrollment for plan year 2025 will occur Oct. 7-18, 2024.The Open Enrollment website is live, and details are available on how to prepare to choose your benefits during Open Enrollment.  

Connect with UVA’s healthy community and take advantage of all the benefits UVA offers you.  

• Build your benefits knowledge and feel confident in selecting benefits that optimize your family’s healthcare spending for the coming year.   
• Plan your benefits decisions prior to Open Enrollment:  
  • Review resources and attend virtual educational webinars, the Open Enrollment Town Hall, and in-person events.   
  • Learn what’s changing and what that means for you. 
  • Connect with benefits counselors in person or online to ask questions.  

Choosing the right health, dental, vision, and benefit savings options can help when unexpected events occur. For more Open Enrollment details, please refer to the Sept. 10 UVA HR email or visit Connect. 

Happenings 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.  

Maternal Health Inequities for Persons With Disabilities 

Thursday, Sept. 19 | 4-5 p.m. | Zoom | More than one million individuals — approximately 12-20% of persons of childbearing age — have a disability, and research suggests persons with disability (PWD) are as likely to desire pregnancy as those without. Yet, PWD continue to experience significant health and social inequities including disparities in access and outcomes related to sexual and reproductive health, ranging from preventative health, preconception health, family planning, and pregnancy to postpartum health. Jeanne Alhusen, PhD, CRNP, RN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Nursing Research, UVA Medical Center Professor of Nursing, discusses. Presented by the School of Nursing Continuing Education “Clinical Updates From the Experts” series. Learn more. 

New Medical Lab Technicians Cohort 

Sign up for info sessions Sept. 19 at PVCC or Sept. 23 online | Interested in an in-demand career? Consider joining the next cohort of the Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) Medical Laboratory Technology degree program. Projected staffing shortages prompted UVA Health to team up with PVCC for the first cohort — and now, almost all of the new alums already are working at UVA Health. Medical lab technicians perform essential testing on blood and body fluids. Students may qualify for free tuition, fees, and books in this G3: Get a Skill. Get a Job. Get Ahead. program. Learn more on Connect. Questions? Email Briana Shelton, UVA Health Medical Laboratories Education Coordinator. 

Know Your Numbers 

Saturday, Sept. 21 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. | Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome | The UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement is partnering with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church and other community partners to offer the church’s 3rd Annual Men’s Health Day Event: Know Your Numbers. Through LabCorp, blood testing for CBC (complete blood count), lipids, prostate, and hemoglobin A1c will be provided free of charge. Clothing, haircuts, food, and information on community resources also will be available. UVA Cancer Center also will share information during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Questions? Email Jackie Martin, Director, UVA Health Community Partnerships and Health Equity. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register  
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register  

iTHRIV's Fall NIH Proposal Development Series 

Mondays, Sept. 23-Oct. 28 | 4-6 p.m. | Virtual | iTHRIV's (integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia) six-session National Institutes of Health (NIH) Proposal Development Series contains pre-recorded informational videos and will be moderated with time for questions after each segment. Topics covered include proposal development, specific aims page, research strategy, administrative components, resubmissions, and transitions and renewals. See the flyer. Free and open to faculty, staff, and trainees. Registration required. Questions? Contact Jennifer Phillips or Sandra Burks. 

National Sickle Cell Awareness Month Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Needed Urgently 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | During September, the American Red Cross highlights an important observance designated by Congress: National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that has no universal cure. Blood transfusions can help reduce recurrent pain crises patients often feel, as well as other SCD complications, such as organ damage and stroke. The Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage, and more individuals are needed to donate now. Sign up to donate by emailing giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Terms apply. 

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon 

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. 

Pulmonary Fibrosis 6th Annual Patient Education Day 

Saturday, Sept. 28 | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building; or virtual | Register | The UVA Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine invites patients, friends, and family to this one-day event to learn more about pulmonary fibrosis. Keynote speaker Daniel Kass, MD, Director, Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease Associate and Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh. Details. 

Nancy McDaniel Lectureship on Women in Leadership 

Monday, Oct. 28 | 4-5 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium or Zoom | Miriam A. Bredella, MD, MBA, Associate Dean for Translational Science and Director of the Clinical and Translational Science Institute at NYU Langone Healt will deliver the lecture “Pathways to Progress: Advancing Women’s Careers in Academic Medicine.” Presented by UVA Health Children’s and the Department of Pediatrics. Zoom meeting ID:916 3632 7584, passcode: 154348. Details. 

Appreciation 

National Surgical Technologist Week 

National Surgical Technologist Week is Sept. 15- 21! At UVA Health, more than 50 surgical technologists ensure the operating room is properly prepared, maintain a sterile environment, and assist surgeons during procedures. Surgical technologists play a critical role in preparing the surgical procedure, anticipating the needs of the surgical team, maintaining the sterile field, and ensuring patient safety is paramount to successful surgery. Thank you to all UVA Health surgical technologists! 

Monday, Sept. 16

National Physician Suicide Awareness Day 

Tuesday, Sept. 17 | According to NPSADay.org, physicians have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. More than half of physicians know a physician who has either considered, attempted or died by suicide in their career. It’s estimated that one million Americans lose their physician to suicide each year. We can all help prevent physician suicide. 

While physician suicide was a crisis long before COVID-19, the demands of the pandemic have created a sense of urgency to better support physicians’ mental health and wellbeing.  

National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is a reminder and call to action. With your help, every day we can make time to talk — and to act — so physicians’ struggles don’t become mental health emergencies. We can all help prevent physician suicide by learning the signs, starting the conversations, removing intrusive mental health questions from applications and sharing the resources that can help those in distress seek mental healthcare. Learn more. 

Ambulatory 

August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available 

Highlights of the August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report include One Team | United on Access Wave 4 updates, a Genesys phone system update, and a registration reminder to RNs about the free AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification course coming to Charlottesville. 

Operations 

29 Photos | Construction Complete: Davis Wing Plastic Surgery Clinic Expansion 

Construction for the Plastic Surgery Clinic, located on the fourth floor of the Davis Wing of the West Complex, is complete. This work refreshed its existing 3,000 square foot space and expanded its footprint by over 300 square feet — increasing the clinic from an eight exam-room suite to a 10 exam-room suite. The new space reopened for patients on Sept. 10. See photos on Connect. 

Bicycle and Scooter Thefts 

The UVA Police Division (UPD) has reported an increase in the theft of bicycles and scooters. UPD has noted that in many cases, bicycles and scooters are secured with a cable lock that is easily manipulated. UPD is recommending the use of U-locks, which provide greater security than cable locks. Reminder about scooters: Per policy, scooters are not allowed inside any Medical Center building. Additionally, charging of any motorized vehicle is prohibited in any University or Medical Center electrical outlet. Questions? Contact Sgt. Beckett Thelen, UPD Community Engagement Unit. 

Spok System Upgrade 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 2-8 a.m. | The Spok System upgrade is expected to last approximately four hours. During this period, the Contact Center will operate under downtime procedures. All emergencies will be communicated via overhead announcements.   

Leadership 

Rescheduled: UVA Health Town Hall 

The UVA Health Town Hall scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 17, is being rescheduled for a date in the not-too-distant future. We look forward to sharing updates on topics such as our Community Engagement strategy, Health Leadership Institute, and Clinical Integration progress as we continue to deliver more care to patients in need across the Commonwealth. Please stay tuned for the rescheduled date. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor  

Wednesday, Sept. 18 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.  

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life  

Tuesday, Sept. 17 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off or take what you need monthly. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 18-Nov. 6 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Fontaine Research Park | Register  
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register  
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register  

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Thursday, Sept. 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 1:30-4:30 p.m. 

Maternal Health Inequities for Persons With Disabilities 

Thursday, Sept. 19 | 4-5 p.m. | Zoom | More than one million individuals — approximately 12-20% of persons of childbearing age — have a disability, and research suggests persons with disability (PWD) are as likely to desire pregnancy as those without. Yet, PWD continue to experience significant health and social inequities including disparities in access and outcomes related to sexual and reproductive health, ranging from preventative health, preconception health, family planning, and pregnancy to postpartum health. Jeanne Alhusen, PhD, CRNP, RN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Nursing Research, UVA Medical Center Professor of Nursing, discusses. Presented by the School of Nursing Continuing Education “Clinical Updates From the Experts” series. Learn more. 

Know Your Numbers 

Saturday, Sept. 21 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. | Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome | The UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement is partnering with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church and other community partners to offer the church’s 3rd Annual Men’s Health Day Event: Know Your Numbers. Through LabCorp, blood testing for CBC (complete blood count), lipids, prostate, and hemoglobin A1c will be provided free of charge. Clothing, haircuts, food, and information on community resources also will be available. UVA Cancer Center also will share information during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Questions? Email Jackie Martin, Director, UVA Health Community Partnerships and Health Equity. 

Hispanic Heritage Month | Sept. 15-Oct. 15 

• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebración | Friday, Sept. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5 Courtyard | UVA Health is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month's first-ever celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture in the UVA Health University Medical Center. Staff, faculty, students, and the community are welcome to attend. 
• My Story, My Voice: Featuring Silvia Romero | Monday, Oct. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Silvia Romero, Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Sentara Healthcare, Harrisonburg, Virginia, will share a 45-minute presentation on her academic/career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommended best practices and benchmarks for consideration. 
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Max Luna | Monday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005 and Zoom | Max Luna, MD, will share his academic and career journey using storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and recommendations for positive individual, team, and institutional growth. 

Appreciation 

Celebrating Women in Medicine Month: Who’s Your Inspiration? 

Each September, we honor the achievements and contributions of women in our field. Over the past few weeks, Connect asked UVA Health team members to let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated their UVA Health careers — or whose work they admire. And wow — you delivered! 

All team members were allowed to nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Visit Connect to see some photos and the great things your colleagues have to say about Women in Medicine! 

Friday, Sept. 13

Celebrating Women in Medicine Month 

Who’s Your Inspiration? | Deadline today: Friday, Sept. 13 | Each September, we honor the achievements and contributions of women in our field. Let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated you in your UVA Health career — or whose work you admire! All team members can nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Submissions will be considered for inclusion in a Women in Medicine Month article on Connect. To participate, please send an email to RUVAConnect@uvahealth.org with the following details: 

• Your name, credentials, title, and unit or work area. 
• Name, title, credentials, and unit or work area of the woman you’re nominating. 
• A brief paragraph (up to 450 words) describing why the nominee should be honored during Women in Medicine Month. What’s special about them or their work, or how do they inspire you? 
• Photo (optional): Snap a selfie of you and the nominee and attach it to your email.  

UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Janet Cross

Monday, Sept. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005, Zoom | Janet V. Cross, PhD, shares her academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and positive individual, team, or institutional growth recommendations. 

Ambulatory 

August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report Now Available 

Highlights of the August Ambulatory Operations Progress Report include One Team | United on Access Wave 4 updates, a Genesys phone system update, and a registration reminder to RNs about the free AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification course coming to Charlottesville. 

PETC Clinic Moving, Will Be Renamed Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine 

The Pre-anesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center (PETC) will undergo a significant transformation at the end of the month, with a new name and location aimed at improving preoperative patient care and streamlining anesthesia evaluations. Currently located on the first floor of University Hospital, the clinic will relocate to Fontaine Research Park on Sept. 27 and will start seeing patients at its new facility on Sept. 30. The clinic will be renamed the Preoperative Anesthesia Clinic Fontaine, a name that more accurately reflects its specialized focus for both patients and staff. Learn more on Connect. 

Operations 

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program 

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24.    

Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccination can lower your risk of getting flu, and it also can lower the risk of having serious illness from flu. By getting vaccinated, you are also protecting people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, including babies and young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Read more about the vaccination program and FAQs on Connect.  

Updating UVA Health-Employed Provider Profiles 

Need to make an update to your UVA Health profile? Previously, Edit Requests for provider and location profiles have been one online form. Now it’s two separate forms: one for employed providers and another one for hospitals/clinic locations. These new forms highlight the different field types, who manages them, and estimated turnaround time for completion. Here are the new links for Provider Profile Edit Request and Location Profile Edit Request. 

Central Clinical Orientation   

Monday, Sept. 16 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Battle Building Quayle Learning Center | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Central Clinical Orientation NEC and Management email collaboration has gone live. Units to email their new hires prior to Friday afternoon this week with orientation information. Visit the Nursing Professional Development Services (NPDS) intranet for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. Read more on Connect about the new and improved orientation. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, Sept. 18 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

2024 Annual Retraining  

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining webpage. 

Happenings 

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life 

Tuesday, Sept. 17 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off or take what you need monthly. 

Mindfulness Classes   

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 18-Nov. 6 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Fontaine Research Park | Register  
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register   
• Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register  

Know Your Numbers  

Saturday, Sept. 21 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. | Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome | The UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement is partnering with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church and other community partners to offer the church’s 3rd Annual Men’s Health Day Event: Know Your Numbers. Through LabCorp, blood testing for CBC (complete blood count), lipids, prostate, and hemoglobin A1c will be provided free of charge. Clothing, haircuts, food, and information on community resources also will be available. UVA Cancer Center also will share information during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Questions? Email Jackie Martin, Director, UVA Health Community Partnerships and Health Equity. 

Information Session: 'What Nursing Program Is Right for Me?' 

Wednesday, Sept. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | No matter your goals, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Thanks to a generous base of supporters, there are financial resources to make returning to school affordable — and a reality. Learn more and register. 

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon  

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. 

2024 Bice Lecture: ‘Following What Matters’ 

Thursday, Oct. 3 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110 | American Academy of Nursing Immediate Past President and Dean Emeritus of MGH Institute of Health Professions' School of Nursing Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FADLN, FAAN, will deliver UVA School of Nursing's annual Bice Lecture. Learn more. 

Advanced Practice APOGEE Conference  

Oct. 10-11 | 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | UVA Newcomb Hall | Advancing Professional Growth, Education, and Excellence Conference features lectures, case studies, and interactive sessions. It addresses complex medical and nursing management of acute and chronic illness through the care continuum and across the lifespan, expanding excellence in clinical care and sophistication of medical decision making. Questions? Contact Linda Hanson. Learn more and register. 

2024 Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar 

Oct. 20-22 | Collins Building, 5th Floor, Room 5382 | This in-person, intensive, three-day training program is designed for multidisciplinary practicing healthcare professionals who wish to develop or deepen their healthcare ethics and moral distress consultation knowledge and skills, and prepare for the healthcare ethics consultation certification exam. Questions? Contact Charlene Kaufman. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation 

‘Treated With Dignity and Respect’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• “I was so impressed with this hospital. When I went back to be prepped for surgery, I had the nicest nurse that I have ever had in a medical facility. She treated me as if I were the only patient in the facility. Her name was Susan, and she is absolutely fantastic. And during my recovery, I had the pleasure of having another fantastic nurse, and her name was Miah. I am so impressed with the UVA Health surgery department, where you are treated with dignity and respect at all times.” 
• “Dr. Wilson is a life-giver. Her expertise, knowledge, personal concerns, and the joy she clearly feels for her practice are going to be sorely missed upon her retirement. She truly has given me extraordinary care and I am so grateful. Thank you!” 
• “I usually bring a book to my appointments (although I usually don't get to read very long), and Dr. Yarboro actually remembered what book I had been reading at the previous visit — and asked about it. It certainly made me feel recognized as an individual and not just another generic clinical problem.” 
• “The entire visit was excellent. The doctor (John Harrison) was thorough and detailed in explaining answers to my questions and concerns prompting my appointment. He was friendly, open to discussion and examination of my issues, articulate, and clearly interested in me. He gave me the confidence in knowing that I was in the right medical practice. I would recommend anyone to seek his five-star professionalism.” 

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

Wednesday, Sept. 11

Benefits Open Enrollment for Plan Year 2025 

UVA's Benefits Open Enrollment for plan year 2025 will occur Oct. 7-18, 2024.The Open Enrollment website is live, and details are available on how to prepare to choose your benefits during Open Enrollment. 

Connect with UVA’s healthy community and take advantage of all the benefits UVA offers you. 

• Build your benefits knowledge and feel confident in selecting benefits that optimize your family’s healthcare spending for the coming year.  
• Plan your benefits decisions prior to Open Enrollment: 
  • Review resources and attend virtual educational webinars, the Open Enrollment Town Hall, and in-person events.  
  • Learn what’s changing and what that means for you.
  • Connect with benefits counselors in person or online to ask questions. 

Choosing the right health, dental, vision, and benefit savings options can help when unexpected events occur. For more Open Enrollment details, please refer to the Sept. 10 UVA HR email or visit Connect. 

Remembering 9/11 

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which claimed the lives of 2,977 people and injured thousands more at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The effects of the attacks reached across the country, including in our own community. Please take a moment today in memory of those lives lost. 

Ambulatory 

Free AAACN Certification Review Course for Ambulatory RNs  

Saturday, Oct. 19 | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) | Register via Workday | UVA Health is offering the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) Certification Review Course. This one-day session is designed to prepare UVA Health registered nurses (RN) for the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam and provides 8.0 contact hours. Registration is capped at 80 participants. The course, offered free of charge, provides an overview of the potential content that may be tested on the AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam. In an interactive, case-based format, it reinforces knowledge of ambulatory care and identifies areas for further study in preparation for the exam. The class also may be suitable for RNs transitioning into ambulatory care or those who need a refresher on the ambulatory care nursing specialty.  

Operations 

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program  

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24.   

Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccination can lower your risk of getting flu, and it also can lower the risk of having serious illness from flu. By getting vaccinated, you are also protecting people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, including babies and young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Read more about the vaccination program and FAQs on Connect.  

Central Clinical Orientation  

Monday, Sept. 16 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Battle Building Quayle Learning Center | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | Central Clinical Orientation NEC and Management email collaboration has gone live. Units to email their new hires prior to Friday afternoon this week with orientation information. Visit the Nursing Professional Development Services (NPDS) intranet for details. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist. Read more on Connect about the new and improved orientation. 

Spok System Upgrade  

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 2-8 a.m. | The Spok System upgrade is expected to last approximately four hours. During this period, the Contact Center will operate under downtime procedures. All emergencies will be communicated via overhead announcements.   

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Best Place to Work: A Primary Care Clinic Dedicated to You and Our Team 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, discusses how we're investing in your access to primary care right here at UVA Health. Read more. 

Happenings 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.  

Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann 

Sept. 12-Nov. 13 | Main Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Charlottesville and Beyond: The Art of Eric Bolsmann.” Pictured: “The Battle Building, West Main St., Charlottesville.” Stop by and check it out! 

Medical Center Hour | Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine  

Friday, Sept. 13 | 12:15-1:15 p.m. | Education Resource Center | Louise Ivers, MD, MPH, Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, will deliver the talk "Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine.” Dr. Ivers works on the implementation of health programs with the goal of advancing health equity and access to care and social services for impoverished communities, supported by research and advocacy. She is a practicing infectious diseases physician in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Mass General Hospital.  

Celebrating Women in Medicine Month 

• Who’s Your Inspiration? | Submission deadline: Friday, Sept. 13 | Let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated you in your UVA Health career — or whose work you admire! All team members can nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Submissions will be considered for inclusion in a Women in Medicine Month article on Connect. To participate, please send an email to RUVAConnect@uvahealth.org with the following details: 
  • Your name, credentials, title, and unit or work area.
  • Name, title, credentials, and unit or work area of the woman you’re nominating.
  • A brief paragraph (up to 450 words) describing why the nominee should be honored during Women in Medicine Month. What’s special about them or their work, or how do they inspire you?
  • Photo (optional): Snap a selfie of you and the nominee and attach it to your email. 
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Janet Cross | Monday, Sept. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005, Zoom | Janet V. Cross, PhD, shares her academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and positive individual, team, or institutional growth recommendations. 

Mindfulness Classes  

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 18-Nov. 6 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Fontaine Research Park | Register  
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register  
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register  

iTHRIV's Fall NIH Proposal Development Series  

Mondays, Sept. 23-Oct. 28 | 4-6 p.m. | Virtual | iTHRIV's (integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia) six-session National Institutes of Health (NIH) Proposal Development Series contains pre-recorded informational videos and will be moderated with time for questions after each segment. Topics covered include proposal development, specific aims page, research strategy, administrative components, resubmissions, and transitions and renewals. See the flyer. Free and open to faculty, staff, and trainees. Registration required. Questions? Contact Jennifer Phillips or Sandra Burks.  

Valley Cares for Kids Radiothon 

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. | Harrisonburg Radio Group, 1820 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, Virginia | Volunteers are needed for UVA Health Children’s live phone bank; two-hour slots available. Hear from inspiring patient families. Sign up. 100% of funds raised support the basic needs of our patients and their families. Questions? Contact Erin Chandler, Associate Director of Development, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Corporate Philanthropy. 

Pulmonary Fibrosis 6th Annual Patient Education Day  

Saturday, Sept. 28 | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building; or virtual | Register | The UVA Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine invites patients, friends, and family to this one-day event to learn more about pulmonary fibrosis. Keynote speaker Daniel Kass, MD, Director, Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease Associate and Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh. Details. 

Appreciation 

Years Ahead 

America’s Essential Hospitals is recognizing member hospitals and health systems for successful projects to improve the quality of care and population health. It’s highlighting UVA Health’s Interactive Health Monitoring (IHM), a remote patient monitoring and care coordination program to reduce readmission rates among our sickest patients and those with the highest social needs. 

Inpatient discharges — and pediatric, ambulatory, and emergency department patients — receive no-cost tablet computers and cellular hub patient kits with condition-specific peripherals to monitor vital signs. IHM aims to improve healthcare outcomes; manage patient care where the patient lives, including on the streets and in deeply rural areas; and target underserved patient populations. 

In 2017, UVA Health had an 18.1% readmission rate among our sickest and highest-risk patient populations; from 2020 to the present, overall readmission rates have ranged from 7.3 to 9.3%. UVA Health also has taught systems in southwest Virginia how to provide this service for their patients. 

“UVA Health is years ahead of many other health systems due to our belief in the power of innovative technology and programs that deliver care beyond hospital walls. Today, not only do we provide high quality patient care through our IHM program, we’ve expanded into other areas where remote patient monitoring is a common thread that positively impacts the behavioral utilization of services. The credit for this recognition all goes to my IHM program leader Jared McComb, our case management, and clinician team,” says Novella Thompson, MBA, MA, ALM-C, FACHE, Administrator, Population Health. 

Monday, Sept. 9

UVA to Test Emergency Notification System

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | 10:50-11 a.m. | During this time, UVA will test all components of its emergency notification system. When the test is over, a “test complete” message will be issued. UVA’s siren and public address system will be included in the test. All current students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members with a valid UVA email account will automatically receive an email alert. Students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members who provided a phone number during orientation or onboarding will also automatically receive a text alert. For details, refer to the Sept. 3 email from Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Timothy J. Longo Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police.

Patient Care

Patient Care Change to Complete Blood Count Orders Coming Sept. 10

Currently, six unique Complete Blood Count (CBC) lab orders specific to various clinic locations exist in Epic (e.g., CBC WITH DIFF, RIVERSIDE [LAB6274]). As part of the Sept. 10 Epic bundle update, these location-specific orders will no longer appear in order sets, preference lists, or treatment plans and care teams should transition to ordering CBC WITH DIFFERENTIAL [LAB293], a universal CBC order that works across all UVA Health locations.  

On Sept. 10, the Epic team will run an order replacer activity to update active, outpatient site-specific CBCs to LAB293. This activity will capture most but not all existing orders (e.g., signed, held, etc.); therefore, prescribing teams are asked to check to ensure that existing orders have been updated to LAB293. To support a smooth transition, location-specific CBC orders will not be deactivated until mid-October, though care teams should begin using LAB293 on Sept. 10. Please see the ELL tip sheet for additional information and contact Carl Lake, point of care testing lead, with questions.

Operations

Construction Complete: Plastic Surgery Clinic

Construction for the Plastic Surgery Clinic, located on the fourth floor of the Davis Wing of the West Complex, is complete. This work refreshed its existing 3,000 square foot space and expanded its footprint by over 300 square feet — increasing the clinic from an eight exam-room suite to a 10 exam-room suite. The new space is scheduled to reopen for patients on Sept. 10.

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include a new Central Cardiac Monitoring SOP, updates to the Palliative Care Guideline, updates to the Warfarin Maintenance Dosing in Ambulatory Clinics Protocol Order, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.

Monthly Epic Update

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

Happenings

Market Square

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition.

Managing Through Life’s Changes: Don’t Just Survive — Thrive!

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | How often do you find yourself lost in thought — either negatively forecasting the future or longing for life “back in the day”? How does this habit of thinking impact your everyday health and well-being? What if you could strike that middle ground, where you could simply embrace the present and all its possibilities? Register.

Lunch and Learn Series: Vascular Disease

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | WebEx | Join the Heart and Vascular Center as it kicks off the Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series for National Vascular Disease and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Awareness month. Lauren Huck, AG-ACNP, will discuss aneurysms, dissections, risk factors, symptoms, medical versus surgical management, and treatment plans.

Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series: Making Room for Rest and Recovery in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 5060 | Increased awareness of global inequality and collective suffering has made compassion a critical behavior and business imperative. Making room for rest and recovery in healthcare is necessary to sustain compassionate care, support our most vulnerable populations, and reduce compassion fatigue. Lecturer: Courtney McCluney, PhD, Founder and Principal Consultant, EquiWell Partners. Lunch provided for the first 30 people. Accredited continuing education provided by UVA School of Medicine and UVA School of Nursing. Details. Co-sponsored by UVA School of Nursing’s IDEA initiative.

ECHO: Stroke Ready Primary Care

Virtual | Register | A free webinar series for primary care providers to better understand stroke and management of risk factors. This series will provide a comprehensive review of the newest treatment and evaluation paradigms for the primary and secondary prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular disease.  

• Wednesday, Sept. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | "Navigating Life After Stroke: Management of Stroke Sequela and Aiding in Recovery," Keri Johnson, NP  
• Wednesday, Oct. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | "Trimming Trends: Mastering Obesity Treatment in Primary Care," Catherine Varney, DO 
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 | noon-1 p.m. | “High Stakes: Unveiling Substance Abuse as a Stroke Catalyst,” Emily Fisher, MD

Celebrating Women in Medicine Month

• Who’s Your Inspiration? | Submission deadline: Friday, Sept. 13 | Let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated you in your UVA Health career — or whose work you admire! All team members can nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Submissions will be considered for inclusion in a Women in Medicine Month article on Connect. To participate, please send an email to RUVAConnect@uvahealth.org with the following details: 
  • Your name, credentials, title, and unit or work area.Name, title, credentials, and unit or work area of the woman you’re nominating.A brief paragraph (up to 450 words) describing why the nominee should be honored during Women in Medicine Month. What’s special about them or their work, or how do they inspire you?
  • Photo (optional): Snap a selfie of you and the nominee and attach it to your email.
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Janet Cross | Monday, Sept. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005, Zoom | Janet V. Cross, PhD, shares her academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and positive individual, team, or institutional growth recommendations.

Medical Center Hour | Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine

Friday, Sept. 13 | 12:15-1:15 p.m. | Education Resource Center | Louise Ivers, MD, MPH, Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, will deliver the talk "Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine.” Dr. Ivers works on the implementation of health programs with the goal of advancing health equity and access to care and social services for impoverished communities, supported by research and advocacy. She is a practicing infectious diseases physician in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Mass General Hospital.

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life

Tuesday, Sept. 17 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off or take what you need monthly.

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot

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

• Thursday, Sept. 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Know Your Numbers 

Saturday, Sept. 21 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave.| Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome | The UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement is partnering with Mount Zion First African Baptist Church and other community partners to offer the church’s 3rd Annual Men’s Health Day Event: Know Your Numbers. Through LabCorp, blood testing for CBC (complete blood count), lipids, prostate, and hemoglobin A1c will be provided free of charge. Clothing, haircuts, food, and information on community resources also will be available. UVA Cancer Center also will share information during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Questions? Email Jackie Martin, Director, UVA Health Community Partnerships and Health Equity.

Appreciation

‘Remarkable Involvement and Dedication’: Celebrating the Newest Uteam Members of the Month

Each quarter — UVA Health recognizes Uteam Members of the Month for their outstanding service and their commitment to our ASPIRE values. Congratulations to honorees announced this summer during the Uteam Member of the Month Quarterly Breakfast in the Education Resource Center:

• Alanna Baker, Addiction Counselor, Department of Psychiatry
• Judy Casella, Director, Delegated Credentialing and Enrollment (pictured, center)
• Bianca Bonilla, Patient Care Technician, Inpatient Services
• Mia Ward, Coding Quality Specialist, Orthopedic Surgery
• Amy Lewis, RN, Radiology
• Stacy Hite, Physical Therapist, Outpatient Physical Therapy
• Cierra Hill, Intermediate Administrative Assistant, Department of Pediatrics 
• Casey Moler, Physical Therapist, Outpatient Fontaine Orthopedics
• Caitlin Castillo, RN, Infusion Center

Read more about the amazing colleagues listed above on Connect.

Friday, Sept. 6

Celebrating Women in Medicine Month  

Each September, we honor the achievements and contributions of women in our field. Check out these events and celebrate the month by sharing the story of a woman in medicine who inspires you! 

• Women in Medicine and Science Luncheon: Empowering Voices for Meaningful Change | Monday, Sept. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and G2, Zoom | Register | Join the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement for a luncheon and panel discussion with Nassima Ait-Daoud Tiouririne, MD; Janet Cross, PhD; Ivora “Ivy” D. Hinton, PhD; Ifeyinwa Obiorah, MD, PhD; and Marquita Taylor, PhD. Melody M. Pannell, D.Min, will facilitate the panel discussion. Register for the event for the Zoom link. Lunch will be served.  

• Women in Medicine Month: Who’s Your Inspiration? | Submission deadline: Friday, Sept. 13 | Let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated you in your UVA Health career — or whose work you admire! All team members can nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Submissions will be considered for inclusion in a Women in Medicine Month article on Connect. To participate, please send an email to RUVAConnect@uvahealth.org with the following details: 
  • Your name, credentials, title, and unit or work area.
  • Name, title, credentials, and unit or work area of the woman you’re nominating.
  • A brief paragraph (up to 450 words) describing why the nominee should be honored during Women in Medicine Month. What’s special about them or their work, or how do they inspire you?
  • Photo (optional): Snap a selfie of you and the nominee and attach it to your email. 

• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Janet Cross | Monday, Sept. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005, Zoom | Janet V. Cross, PhD, shares her academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and positive individual, team, or institutional growth recommendations. 

COVID-19 

Should I Come to Work if I’m Sick? Answers to This Question and Other Reminders as COVID Cases Increasing, Flu Season Approaches 

Many inpatient and ambulatory clinic teams are being impacted as COVID rates are on the rise in Virginia, and as we embark on flu season. For the answers to important questions such as what to do if you’re not feeling well, return to work guidance for COVID, and reminders about patient care during cold and flu season, visit Connect. 

Patient Care 

Patient Care Change to Complete Blood Count Orders Coming Sept. 10 

Currently, six unique Complete Blood Count (CBC) lab orders specific to various clinic locations exist in Epic (e.g., CBC WITH DIFF, RIVERSIDE [LAB6274]). As part of the Sept. 10 Epic bundle update, these location-specific orders will no longer appear in order sets, preference lists, or treatment plans and care teams should transition to ordering CBC WITH DIFFERENTIAL [LAB293], a universal CBC order that works across all UVA Health locations.  

On Sept. 10, the Epic team will run an order replacer activity to update active, outpatient site-specific CBCs to LAB293. This activity will capture most but not all existing orders (e.g., signed, held, etc.); therefore, prescribing teams are asked to check to ensure that existing orders have been updated to LAB293. To support a smooth transition, location-specific CBC orders will not be deactivated until mid-October, though care teams should begin using LAB293 on Sept. 10. Please see the ELL tip sheet for additional information and contact Carl Lake, point of care testing lead, with questions. 

Operations 

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program 

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24.  

Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccination can lower your risk of getting flu, and it also can lower the risk of having serious illness from flu. By getting vaccinated, you are also protecting people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, including babies and young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Read more about the vaccination program and FAQs on Connect. 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include a new Central Cardiac Monitoring SOP, updates to the Palliative Care Guideline, updates to the Warfarin Maintenance Dosing in Ambulatory Clinics Protocol Order, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Monthly Epic Update 

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

UVA to Test Emergency Notification System 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | 10:50-11 a.m. | During this time, UVA will test all components of its emergency notification system. When the test is over, a “test complete” message will be issued. UVA’s siren and public address system will be included in the test. All current students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members with a valid UVA email account will automatically receive an email alert. Students, faculty, staff, and UVA Health team members who provided a phone number during orientation or onboarding will also automatically receive a text alert. For details, refer to the Sept. 3 email from Jennifer (J.J.) Wagner Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Timothy J. Longo Sr., Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police. 

Human Resources 

2024 Annual Retraining  

Deadline: Monday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2024, who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center — regardless of their employer — are required to take Annual Retraining. This is part of our commitment to excellence and to meet regulatory requirements. Those required to take the course may access it here: 2024 Annual Retraining. Find more information on the 2024 Annual Retraining webpage. 

Happenings 

UVA Health Team Member Art Show and ‘Blue Ridge East and West: The Art of Debra Sheffer’ 

Through Sept. 11 | University Medical Center lobby | Our colleagues are multi-talented and the UVA Health Arts Program is proud to showcase their artwork! View their stellar creations on the two, far wall art panels in the main hospital lobby. In addition, Debra Sheffer’s artwork can be viewed until Sept. 11. 

UVA Health Pediatric Sickle Cell Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Monday, Sept. 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | One in three donors who are Black are a match for a patient with sickle cell — join us to unlock the power in your blood to save lives! Red Cross is experiencing critically low levels of blood supply, particularly those with type O blood, that is currently impacting their ability to fulfill orders as expected. Sign up to donate by emailing giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donors will receive a Red Cross raglan shirt and a $20 Amazon gift card. 

Managing Through Life’s Changes: Don’t Just Survive — Thrive! 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | How often do you find yourself lost in thought — either negatively forecasting the future or longing for life “back in the day”? How does this habit of thinking impact your everyday health and well-being? What if you could strike that middle ground, where you could simply embrace the present and all its possibilities? Register. 

Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series: Making Room for Rest and Recovery in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 5060 | Increased awareness of global inequality and collective suffering has made compassion a critical behavior and business imperative. Making room for rest and recovery in healthcare is necessary to sustain compassionate care, support our most vulnerable populations, and reduce compassion fatigue. Lecturer: Courtney McCluney, PhD, Founder and Principal Consultant, EquiWell Partners. Lunch provided for the first 30 people. Accredited continuing education provided by UVA School of Medicine and UVA School of Nursing. Details. Co-sponsored by UVA School of Nursing’s IDEA initiative. 

Lunch and Learn Series: Vascular Disease 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | WebEx | Join the Heart and Vascular Center as it kicks off the Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series for National Vascular Disease and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Awareness month. Lauren Huck, AG-ACNP, will discuss aneurysms, dissections, risk factors, symptoms, medical versus surgical management, and treatment plans. 

ECHO: Stroke Ready Primary Care 

Virtual | Register | A free webinar series for primary care providers to better understand stroke and management of risk factors. This series will provide a comprehensive review of the newest treatment and evaluation paradigms for the primary and secondary prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular disease.  

• Wednesday, Sept. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | "Navigating Life After Stroke: Management of Stroke Sequela and Aiding in Recovery," Keri Johnson, NP  
• Wednesday, Oct. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | "Trimming Trends: Mastering Obesity Treatment in Primary Care," Catherine Varney, DO  
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 | noon-1 p.m. | “High Stakes: Unveiling Substance Abuse as a Stroke Catalyst,” Emily Fisher, MD 

Medical Center Hour | Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine 

Friday, Sept. 13 | 12:15-1:15 p.m. | Education Resource Center | Louise Ivers, MD, MPH, Professor of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, will deliver the talk "Infectious Diseases and Inequalities: The Future of Global Social Medicine.” Dr. Ivers works on the implementation of health programs with the goal of advancing health equity and access to care and social services for impoverished communities, supported by research and advocacy. She is a practicing infectious diseases physician in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Mass General Hospital. 

2024 Bice Lecture: ‘Following What Matters’ 

Thursday, Oct. 3 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110 | American Academy of Nursing immediate past president and dean emeritus of MGH Institute of Health Professions' School of Nursing Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FADLN, FAAN, will deliver UVA School of Nursing's annual Bice Lecture. Learn more. 

Appreciation 

‘Life Changing and Transformative’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

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

• “I am a retired critical care and clinical research RN who worked at [another institution] for 33 years. I've had several surgeries through the years and this experience was by far the best I've ever had! Thank you for your excellence!”  
• “The overall visit was excellent, well-coordinated, and carried out extremely well. The scheduling staff were very helpful and patient, since my trip to the hospital was emergent, delayed, and late in the day on a Friday. The nursing staff were amazingly supportive from the start through my surgery and discharge the following day. Dr. Mangram and his surgical staff were outstanding, providing excellent information about the procedures. All aspects of my visit, surgery, and post-op were excellent. The quality and extent of information provided far exceeded my expectations and that of my wife. Follow-up has been regular, frequent, and helpful.” 
• “My experience at the UVA Health Transplant Center has been life changing and transformative. I am a better person after receiving care from the entire team, from check-in through leaving the building.” 

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

Wednesday, Sept. 4

Flu No More in ‘24 — 2024 Team Member Flu Vaccination Program 

UVA Health is preparing for the arrival of flu season, and we’re excited to announce this year’s flu vaccination initiative: Flu No More in ‘24. 

Getting influenza/flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu and its complications. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone age six months or older. Flu vaccination can lower your risk of getting flu, and it also can lower the risk of having serious illness from flu. By getting vaccinated, you are also protecting people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, including babies and young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Read more about the vaccination program and FAQs on Connect. 

Ambulatory 

Free AAACN Certification Review Course for Ambulatory RNs 

Saturday, Oct. 19 | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) | Register via Workday | UVA Health is offering the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) Certification Review Course. This one-day session is designed to prepare UVA Health registered nurses (RN) for the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam and provides 8.0 contact hours. Registration is capped at 80 participants. The course, offered free of charge, provides an overview of the potential content that may be tested on the AAACN Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification Exam. In an interactive, case-based format, it reinforces knowledge of ambulatory care and identifies areas for further study in preparation for the exam. The class also may be suitable for RNs transitioning into ambulatory care or those who need a refresher on the ambulatory care nursing specialty. 

Patient Care 

Patient Care Change to Complete Blood Count Orders Coming Sept. 10  

Currently, six unique Complete Blood Count (CBC) lab orders specific to various clinic locations exist in Epic (e.g., CBC WITH DIFF, RIVERSIDE [LAB6274]). As part of the Sept. 10 Epic bundle update, these location-specific orders will no longer appear in order sets, preference lists, or treatment plans and care teams should transition to ordering CBC WITH DIFFERENTIAL [LAB293], a universal CBC order that works across all UVA Health locations. 

On Sept. 10, the Epic team will run an order replacer activity to update active, outpatient site-specific CBCs to LAB293. This activity will capture most but not all existing orders (e.g., signed, held, etc.); therefore, prescribing teams are asked to check to ensure that existing orders have been updated to LAB293. To support a smooth transition, location-specific CBC orders will not be deactivated until mid-October, though care teams should begin using LAB293 on Sept. 10. Please see the ELL tip sheet for additional information and contact Carl Lake, point of care testing lead, with questions. 

Operations 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include a new Central Cardiac Monitoring SOP, updates to the Palliative Care Guideline, updates to the Warfarin Maintenance Dosing in Ambulatory Clinics Protocol Order, and many more. Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.  

Servicing Stacey Hall Servers 

Wednesday, Sept. 4 | 8-9:30 p.m. | Health Information Technology (HIT) and the Network Team will be conducting maintenance on our core network devices that service our main data center for the health system in Stacey Hall. Cisco Systems, our primary network manufacturer, recommends a simultaneous reload of our core equipment to clear a memory condition that caused the outage on Aug. 13. While the duration of the impact to Stacey Hall is expected to be 30 minutes or less, HIT wants to ensure the technical teams have the time to overcome unanticipated difficulties. We do not expect any major impact to clinical operations during the event, though there may be small outages or interrupted service as they work through the change. 

Spok System Upgrade 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 2-8 a.m. | The Spok System upgrade is expected to last approximately four hours. During this period, the Contact Center will operate under downtime procedures. All emergencies will be communicated via overhead announcements.  

Leadership 

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall 

Tuesday, Sept. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium and livestream | If your schedule allows, please join UVA Health leaders for the next Town Hall to learn more about the top priorities and latest developments for our organization as we continue our momentum as One Future Together | Health and Hope for All. We have a great agenda planned and a surprise segment to share with you! 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Building for the Future With a Virtual Helping Hand 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, discusses virtual nursing, the future of patient care, and the work environment. Read more. 

Celebrate Women in Medicine Month 

Each September, we join the medical profession in commemorating Women in Medicine Month — a time to celebrate all women and highlight those who are making their mark toward our vision of being one of the nation’s leading public academic health systems and a best place to work. Read the full Women in Medicine Month message from UVA Health senior leadership on KnowledgeLink. 

Happenings 

Market Square 

Weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition. 

University Futures: A Presidents' Panel 

Thursday, Sept. 5 | 3:30-4:45 p.m. | Old Cabell Hall | Register | The signature event of UVA's Futures Initiative Speaker Series, this panel will feature four university and college presidents in conversation about how their institutions are each boldly taking on the future. UVA President Jim Ryan will moderate the conversation with presidents Michael Crow, Arizona State University; Harriet Nembhard, Harvey Mudd College; and Santa Ono, University of Michigan. This event will not be livestreamed, but a video will be available after the event. Free and open to the public. Details. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

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

• Friday, Sept. 6 | 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  
• Monday, Sept. 9 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.  
• Thursday, Sept. 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 24 | 1:30-4:30 p.m. 

UVA Pediatric Sickle Cell Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed  

Monday, Sept. 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, First Floor, Quayle Learning Center, 1204 West Main St. | One in three donors who are Black are a match for a patient with sickle cell — join us to unlock the power in your blood to save lives! Red Cross is experiencing critically low levels of blood supply, particularly those with type O blood, that is currently impacting their ability to fulfill orders as expected. Sign up to donate by emailing giveblood@uvahealth.org. Swag alert: Donors will receive a Red Cross raglan shirt and a $20 Amazon gift card. 

Women in Medicine Month 

• Women in Medicine and Science Luncheon: Empowering Voices for Meaningful Change | Monday, Sept. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and G2, Zoom | Register | Join the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement for a luncheon and panel discussion with Nassima Ait-Daoud Tiouririne, MD; Janet Cross, PhD; Ivora “Ivy” D. Hinton, PhD; Ifeyinwa Obiorah, MD, PhD; and Marquita Taylor, PhD. Melody M. Pannell, D.Min, will facilitate the panel discussion. Register for the event for the Zoom link. Lunch will be served. 
• Women in Medicine Month: Who’s Your Inspiration? | Submission deadline: Friday, Sept. 13 | Each September, we honor the achievements and contributions of women in our field. Let us know who has supported, mentored, or motivated you in your UVA Health career — or whose work you admire! All team members can nominate any woman in any role in healthcare — inside or outside of UVA Health. Submissions will be considered for inclusion in a Women in Medicine Month article on Connect. To participate, please send an email to RUVAConnect@uvahealth.org with the following details:     
  • Your name, credentials, title, and unit or work area.
  • Name, title, credentials, and unit or work area of the woman you’re nominating.
  • A brief paragraph (up to 450 words) describing why the nominee should be honored during Women in Medicine Month. What’s special about them or their work, or how do they inspire you?
  • Photo (optional): Snap a selfie of you and the nominee and attach it to your email. 
• UVA Health Storytellers Featuring Dr. Janet Cross | Monday, Sept. 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 1005, Zoom | Janet V. Cross, PhD, shares her academic and career journey utilizing storytelling, significant mileposts, new learnings, and positive individual, team, or institutional growth recommendations. 

Lunch and Learn Series: Vascular Disease  

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | WebEx | Join the Heart and Vascular Center as it kicks off the Vascular Disease Lunch and Learn Series for National Vascular Disease and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Awareness month. Lauren Huck, AG-ACNP, will discuss aneurysms, dissections, risk factors, symptoms, medical versus surgical management, and treatment plans. 

Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series: Making Room for Rest and Recovery in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Sept. 10 | noon-1 p.m. | McLeod Hall, Room 5060 | Increased awareness of global inequality and collective suffering has made compassion a critical behavior and business imperative. Making room for rest and recovery in healthcare is necessary to sustain compassionate care, support our most vulnerable populations, and reduce compassion fatigue. Lecturer: Courtney McCluney, PhD, Founder and Principal Consultant, EquiWell Partners. Lunch provided for the first 30 people. Accredited continuing education provided by UVA School of Medicine and UVA School of Nursing. Details. Co-sponsored by the School of Nursing’s IDEA initiative. 

ECHO: Stroke Ready Primary Care 

Virtual | Register | A free webinar series for primary care providers to better understand stroke and management of risk factors. This series will provide a comprehensive review of the newest treatment and evaluation paradigms for the primary and secondary prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular disease. 

• Wednesday, Sept. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | "Navigating Life After Stroke: Management of Stroke Sequela and Aiding in Recovery," Keri Johnson, NP 
• Wednesday, Oct. 9 | noon-1 p.m. | "Trimming Trends: Mastering Obesity Treatment in Primary Care," Catherine Varney, DO 
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 | noon-1 p.m. | “High Stakes: Unveiling Substance Abuse as a Stroke Catalyst,” Emily Fisher, MD 

iTHRIV's Fall NIH Proposal Development Series 

Mondays, Sept. 23-Oct. 28 | 4-6 p.m. | Virtual | iTHRIV's (integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia) six-session National Institutes of Health (NIH) Proposal Development Series contains pre-recorded informational videos and will be moderated with time for questions after each segment. Topics covered include proposal development, specific aims page, research strategy, administrative components, resubmissions, and transitions and renewals. See the flyer. Free and open to faculty, staff, and trainees. Registration required. Questions? Contact Jennifer Phillips or Sandra Burks. 

Information Session: 'What Nursing Program is Right for Me?' 

Wednesday, Sept. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | No matter your goals, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Thanks to a generous base of supporters, there are financial resources to make returning to school affordable — and a reality. Learn more and register. 

Pulmonary Fibrosis 6th Annual Patient Education Day 

Saturday, Sept. 28 | Quayle Learning Center, Battle Building; or virtual | Register | The UVA Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine invites patients, friends, and family to this one-day event to learn more about pulmonary fibrosis. Keynote speaker Daniel Kass, MD, Director, Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease Associate and Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh. Details. 

Mindfulness Classes 

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 18-Nov. 6 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Fontaine Research Park | Register 
• Mindful Eating | Mondays, Sept. 23-Nov. 11 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Zoom | Register 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction | Mondays, Oct. 21-Dec. 16, I 4-6:30 p.m. | Retreat: Saturday, Feb. 24 | Zoom | Register 

Appreciation 

Celebrate National CNS Recognition Week 

Sept. 1-7 is National Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Week. This year’s theme, "Innovate," highlights the transformative impact CNSs have on healthcare through their leadership, expertise, and innovation. With nearly 90,000 CNSs across North America, we proudly acknowledge their critical role in enhancing patient care, advancing nursing practice, and improving health systems. 

CNSs, as advanced practice registered nurses, excel in integrating care across three key areas: patient, nurse, and system. Their specialized education and clinical skills enable them to tackle complex health challenges and drive evidence-based improvements in care delivery. They lead initiatives that improve patient outcomes and shape the future of nursing practice through clinical education, technology integration, and evidence-based practice. Their progressive Advanced Practice Provider-CNS model is setting new standards, influencing healthcare organizations nationwide, and serving as a benchmark for achieving exceptional patient outcomes. 

Join us in celebrating our outstanding CNSs advancing healthcare and empowering change in our communities. Their dedication and expertise are vital to the success of our healthcare system. 

Meet the UVA Health CNS team: 

• Kim Elgin, APP Director – CNS, Genetic Counselors, and Center for Nursing Excellence 
• Cheri Blevins, Critical Care Medicine 
• Scott Darrah, Acute Care Medicine 
• Brenda Deller, Renal 
• Dina Hood, Emergency Services 
• Amy Johnston, Neuroscience 
• Gary Jones, Critical Care Medicine 
• Susan Ketcham, Perioperative 
• Kristi Kimpel, Surgical Critical Care 
• Michelle Longley, Falls and HAPI 
• Dea Mahanes, Neuro Critical Care 
• Kimberly Miller, Glycemic Management 
• Kathleen Rea, Surgical Sub-Specialties 
• Tanya Thomas, Oncology 

Let’s take this week to honor and celebrate the CNSs who are at the forefront of advancing healthcare and making a difference in our communities. Their expertise and commitment are integral to the success of our healthcare system. 

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